Costa Brava, a gem on Spain's northeastern coast, offers families sun-soaked beaches and a vibrant culture. With its Mediterranean climate, expect warm summers perfect for exploring or lounging by the sea. The region is a hit with Brits; over a million visit each year, drawn by the tantalising food, from fresh seafood to traditional Catalan dishes, and a plethora of activities for all ages. Kids will love the water parks and adventure playgrounds. Flight time from the UK is roughly 2 hours. Did you know? Salvador Dalí called this place home! Booking a holiday park here means unparalleled access to both relaxation and adventure, making it an unbeatable choice for a family getaway.

Discover Costa Brava Holiday Parks

European holiday parks are essentially self-contained resorts offering a variety of accommodations, from mobile homes to bungalows and sometimes camping spots. Expect a community vibe with shared amenities like pools, play areas, and entertainment venues. They're designed for convenience, often including shops, restaurants, and sometimes even laundry facilities on-site. Choosing a holiday park over a traditional hotel or package holiday can offer families more freedom and flexibility. Accommodations usually include kitchen facilities, allowing for self-catering, which can be a budget-friendly option. The inclusive nature of holiday parks, with activities and amenities on-site, means there's often no need to venture far unless you want to explore the local area. This can make holiday parks particularly appealing for families with children, as there's plenty to keep them entertained. Many holiday parks boast direct beach access, ensuring you're never too far from a day at the seaside. For fun-filled days on-site, look for parks with waterslides and pools. Dining is made easy with on-site restaurants and bars, and for those who like to holiday with their pets, many parks are pet-friendly, offering a home away from home for the entire family.

Why Take Your 2024 Family Holiday Park Break in Costa Brava?

Costa Brava, with its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters, offers more than just picturesque beaches. It's a region steeped in rich culture and history, from the Salvador Dalí museum in Figueres to the ancient ruins of Empúries. What sets Costa Brava apart is its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for families. The average price for a family break in a Costa Brava holiday park is quite reasonable, often ranging from €250 to €400 per week during the off-peak season, providing great value for money. The area is known for its vibrant festivals, including the International Fireworks Competition in Blanes. Unique to Costa Brava is its combination of accessible pristine beaches, family-friendly holiday parks, and a plethora of activities suitable for all ages, making it a standout choice for a family holiday in Europe.

What's in it for the kids?

1. Waterslides and Pools: The thrill of waterslides and the fun of splashing in pools never gets old.
2. Onsite Entertainment: From live shows to mini-discos, there's always something happening.
3. Freedom to Explore: Holiday parks are safe, enclosed spaces where kids can gain a bit of independence.
4. Outdoor Activities: Bike hire, mini-golf, and playgrounds offer endless outdoor fun.
5. Watersports: Many parks near the beach offer kayaking, paddleboarding, and more.
6. Kids Clubs: Organised activities and clubs mean they can meet new friends while parents relax.

Staying safe un the sun and in the pools

Most holiday parks are designed with family safety in mind. Kids clubs often provide indoor activities for those sensitive to the sun, ensuring there's fun to be had while staying protected. Pools are typically supervised by lifeguards during opening hours, adding an extra layer of safety for swimming children.

Pet Friendly Costa Brava Adventures

Taking your pet on holiday to Europe is straightforward with the right preparation. Ensure your pet's microchip, rabies vaccination, and pet passport are up to date. Costa Brava is welcoming to pets, with several holiday parks offering pet-friendly accommodations. In terms of dining, many local restaurants and pubs, such as La Fusta in Lloret de Mar, welcome pets.

1. Check your pet's documentation is current.
2. Choose a pet-friendly holiday park.
3. Research local pet-friendly dining options.
4. Pack your pet's essentials, including food, bowls, and toys.
5. Plan for pet-friendly activities and walks.

Dog walking routes in Costa Brava

Route	Distance (miles)	Scenery	Postcode
Camí de Ronda	4.3	Coastal Path	17220
Parc de la Devesa	2.5	Urban Park	17001
Platja de Pals	3.1	Beach	17256
Sant Pere Pescador	5.0	River & Nature	17470
Cap de Creus	6.2	National Park	17489

Dining at the park, or heading out

Holiday parks often feature on-site restaurants, offering convenience and a variety of dining options. Local cuisine in Costa Brava is a treat, with seafood dishes like suquet de peix being a must-try. For a family-friendly dining experience, consider El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, known for its welcoming atmosphere. Couples looking for a romantic evening should try Casamar in Llafranc, where the views are as spectacular as the food.

Outdoor activities for the whole family

Costa Brava is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from kayaking and paddleboarding to hiking and cycling. The Parc Aventura in Platja d'Aro provides thrilling treetop adventures suitable for all ages, with prices starting at around €20 per person. Watersports are particularly popular, with many providers offering lessons and equipment hire. Seasonal opening times vary, but most activities are available from April to October.

Handy packing list

Item	Details
Travel Documents	Passports, EHIC cards, travel insurance
Clothing	Swimwear, hats, light layers for evenings
Sun Protection	Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats
First Aid Kit	Plasters, antiseptic cream, pain relief
Entertainment	Books, games, tablets for long journeys
Beach Essentials	Beach towels, reusable water bottles, beach toys
Pet Supplies	Food, leash, pet passport if applicable

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Top Europe Parks for 2024 in Costa Brava

Castell Montgri

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Girona (GRO) (53 km, Approx. 1 hour), Perpignan (PGF) (105 km, Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes), Barcelona (BCN) (150 km, Approx. 2 hours)
• Address: L´Estartit, Girona, Spain

About this park: Castell Montgri is a lively holiday park in Estartit, Spain, offering a mix of natural beauty and entertainment, perfect for active families. It's accessible from Girona, Perpignan, and Barcelona airports. Pools - The park boasts three pool complexes with bars, sun terraces, and waterslides, providing endless fun for all ages. For the kids - Kids will love the animal farm, waterslides, and the various kids' clubs catering to different age groups, ensuring a fun-filled holiday. What's on-site? Enjoy sumptuous meals at the restaurant, relax in the bars, and explore the funfair. Adults can enjoy the evening entertainment, making it a great place for the whole family. What's nearby? Explore the Medes Islands (1 mile away) for snorkelling, visit the picturesque village of Pals (6.2 miles), or take a trip to the Dali Museum (24.8 miles). Aquabrava Water Park is also a hit with families, located approximately 40 minutes drive away. Accommodation options: Offers a range of accommodation from classic to premium, suitable for families, couples, and groups. Pets are allowed in some accommodations.

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Canyelles Campsite

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Girona (GRO) (32 km, Approx. 30 min), Barcelona (BCN) (96 km, Approx. 1 hr 10 min), Perpignan (PGF) (141 km, Approx. 1 hr 30 min)
• Address: Canyelles Campsite, Av. Canyelles, 17310 Lloret de Mar, Girona, Spain

About this park: Canyelles Campsite offers stunning views and a tranquil setting near Lloret de Mar, with a variety of comfortable accommodations and activities for all ages. Pools - The pool complex includes a children's area and waterslides, providing refreshing fun for the entire family. For the kids - Children can enjoy the kids' clubs, disco, and a range of sports activities, ensuring an engaging holiday experience. What's on-site? The parc features dining options at the on-site restaurant and bar, creating a relaxed evening atmosphere for adults and children alike. What's nearby? Visit Water World Lloret de Mar (3.2 miles) for thrilling slides, explore the medieval town of Tossa de Mar (5 miles), or take a day trip to Barcelona (51 miles) for its vibrant culture and architecture. Accommodation options: Offers a range of comfortable to stylish accommodations, suitable for families, couples, and groups. Pets are allowed in some accommodations.

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La Masia Campsite

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Girona (GRO) (31 km, Approx. 30 mins), Barcelona (BCN) (87 km, Approx. 1 hr 10 mins), Perpignan (PGF) (132 km, Approx. 1 hr 30 mins)
• Address: C/Colon 44, 17300 Blanes, Girona, Spain

About this park: La Masia Campsite in Blanes offers a blend of relaxation and excitement with comfortable lodgings, a fantastic spa, and a variety of activities, located near beautiful beaches. Pools - Features a lagoon pool surrounded by palm trees and a family pool with jacuzzis and waterslides for aquatic fun. For the kids - Kids can enjoy the children's disco, sports facilities, and nearby Waterworld for a fun day out. What's on-site? Offers bars and restaurants for delectable dining and vibrant nightlife, with a plethora of bars and discos within easy reach. What's nearby? Visit Jardi Botanic Marimurtra (3 km) for stunning views, explore the lively resort town of Lloret de Mar (8 km), or take a trip to Barcelona (71 km) for its iconic sights. Accommodation options: Offers a range of bright and comfortable accommodations, suitable for families, couples, and groups. Pets are allowed in some accommodations.

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Caballo De Mar Campsite

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Girona (GRO) (40km, Approx. 40 minutes), Barcelona (BCN) (72km, Approx. 1 hour)
• Address: Passeig Maritim 52, 08397 Pineda de Mar, Barcelona, Spain

About this park: Caballo De Mar Campsite in Pineda de Mar offers direct beach access with a variety of activities and dining options, making it the ultimate beachside holiday destination. Pools - Features an adult's pool with a slide and a safe children's pool, catering to swimmers of all ages. For the kids - Kids' clubs, trampolines, and sports activities ensure a lively and engaging holiday for younger guests. What's on-site? Enjoy dining at the parc's restaurant or a cocktail at the bars, with evening entertainment including discos for all ages. What's nearby? Explore the sandy Pineda de Mar Beach directly accessible from the parc, visit the Botanic Gardens Marimurtra (8.7 miles), or take a day trip to Barcelona (34 miles) for its rich culture. Accommodation options: Offers a range of simple to stylish accommodations, suitable for families, couples, and groups. Pets are allowed in some accommodations.

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FAQs

What exactly is a European holiday park?

A European holiday park, particularly in the Costa Brava, is a resort offering a blend of accommodation options such as mobile homes, bungalows, and sometimes tents, all situated within a comprehensive complex. These parks are designed with families in mind, featuring a wide range of facilities like swimming pools, play areas, entertainment programmes, and sports facilities. They offer a self-contained holiday experience where convenience and fun are at the forefront.

How do I pick the right one for my family?

Consider what's most important for your family. If you have young children, look for parks with extensive children's entertainment and safe swimming areas. For older children or adults, parks with sports facilities and adventure activities might be preferable. Reviews and recommendations can be incredibly helpful, and don't forget to check the location for nearby attractions. Parks like Camping Resort Sangulí Salou and Park Playa Barà are highly rated in Costa Brava for their wide range of facilities catering to all ages.

What types of accommodation are there?

Accommodation in holiday parks can vary from luxury mobile homes with air conditioning and private terraces to more traditional camping bungalows or even glamping tents. Many parks offer options with multiple bedrooms, kitchen facilities, and sometimes even private hot tubs, ensuring there's something to suit every family's needs and budget.

How do you even get there?

Costa Brava is well connected by road, air, and rail. The nearest major airport is Girona-Costa Brava Airport, which serves many European destinations. From there, you can hire a car or use public transport to reach your holiday park. Some parks also offer shuttle services, so it's worth checking this when you book.

Is visiting Costa Brava at peak times a nightmare?

While Costa Brava can get busy during the peak summer months, many holiday parks are designed to accommodate the influx of visitors without feeling overcrowded. Booking your activities and dining options in advance can help make your stay more enjoyable. Visiting slightly off-peak, like late June or early September, can also offer a more relaxed experience with the same warm weather.

I like it! How do I book?

Booking is usually straightforward. You can book directly through the holiday park's website, where you'll often find the best deals and special offers. Alternatively, travel agencies and holiday booking sites also offer packages including accommodation and sometimes transport. Always check what's included in the price before you book.

What if we have to cancel?

Cancellation policies vary by park, so it's essential to read these carefully at the time of booking. Many parks offer free cancellation within a certain period or the option to purchase 'cancellation insurance' for added peace of mind.

What amenities and facilities will be on-site?

Holiday parks in Costa Brava boast a wide range of amenities, including swimming pools, water parks, sports courts, mini-golf, and bicycle hire. Entertainment programmes for children and adults are common, as are facilities like supermarkets, laundry services, and even on-site medical services.

Is it all-inclusive?

While most holiday parks are not all-inclusive, some offer packages that include dining options or activity passes. Generally, accommodation and access to basic facilities are included, with additional activities and dining available for an extra fee.

What dining options will be available?

Most parks have a variety of dining options, from restaurants and cafes to takeaway services. You'll find a range of cuisines, catering to different dietary requirements. Many accommodations also come with kitchen facilities, giving you the option to cook your meals.

Can you leave the park and explore Costa Brava?

Absolutely! One of the joys of staying in a holiday park is the flexibility to explore the surrounding area. Costa Brava is known for its beautiful beaches, medieval towns, and natural parks. Many holiday parks are conveniently located to serve as a perfect base for day trips.

What do I need to pack?

Pack as if you're going on a typical beach holiday: swimwear, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses for protection against the sun. It's also a good idea to bring some basic cooking supplies if you plan to prepare meals in your accommodation.

Is it different to a package holiday?

Yes, in a holiday park, you have more freedom and flexibility. You're not tied to hotel meal times or group tours. It's a more relaxed, self-catered approach to holidaying, with the added benefit of a community feel and plenty of activities right on your doorstep.

Can you drive there?

Driving to Costa Brava is a popular option for many families, especially those looking to bring along extra luggage or explore the region at their own pace. The area is well-connected by motorways, and most holiday parks offer parking facilities.

How does check-in and check-out work?

Check-in procedures are similar to hotels. You'll need to present identification and any booking confirmation upon arrival. Check-out is usually by mid-morning on your departure day, and you may need to return keys or access cards to reception.

Are there any sneaky hidden costs?

While holiday parks are generally upfront about costs, it's essential to check what's included in your booking. Additional charges might apply for activities, certain facilities, or dining options. Always read the fine print or ask directly to avoid surprises.

How accessible is it for guests with disabilities?

Many holiday parks in Costa Brava are equipped to accommodate guests with disabilities, offering accessible accommodation options and facilities. However, it's best to check with the park directly regarding specific needs or requirements.

Is Wi-Fi available, and is it free?

Wi-Fi is available in most holiday parks, often free of charge in public areas. Some parks may offer Wi-Fi in accommodation units for a small fee. It's worth checking this in advance if staying connected is important to you.

Can you take a baby to a holiday park?

Holiday parks are ideal for families with babies, offering a home-from-home experience with the convenience of on-site facilities. Many parks provide baby-friendly amenities such as cots and high chairs, but it's wise to confirm these details when booking.

What if someone needs a doctor when we're there?

Most holiday parks have first aid facilities and staff trained to deal with minor injuries. For more serious concerns, staff can direct you to the nearest medical facility or doctor. It's also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

What are the best beaches near Costa Brava holiday parks?

Costa Brava is famous for its stunning beaches. Platja de Pals, Cala Montgó, and Platja de Castell are among the most beautiful and family-friendly. Many holiday parks are located within easy reach of these beaches, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty.

Are there any cultural attractions near Costa Brava holiday parks?

The region is rich in cultural attractions, from the medieval town of Pals to the Salvador Dalí museum in Figueres. Many parks offer excursion services, making it easy to explore these cultural gems during your stay.

What outdoor activities can families enjoy in Costa Brava?

Costa Brava is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Apart from swimming and sunbathing, families can enjoy hiking in the Cap de Creus Natural Park, kayaking along the coast, or even hot air ballooning for a bird's-eye view of the region's breathtaking landscapes.