Overview
Length: 10km
Elevation: 378m
Type: Loop
Time: 1hr 20m
Introduction
Markus and I found ourselves spending Christmas in Tossa de Mar, and we hadn’t planned to…
We’d never been there before, had no family or friends in the area, and were hours away from the lovely snow-covered villages of the Catalan and Aragonese Pyrenees that scream “Christmas postcard.”
But there we were, holed up in a hotel room, FaceTiming our two adult kids.
Somehow, we managed to snag a table at a local seafood restaurant for Christmas lunch. Instead of turkey or ham, we found ourselves staring down a plate of “suquet de peix”—a traditional Girona seafood stew. It was our first Christmas having monkfish and prawns in broth, and while peculiar, it wasn’t half bad!
Okay, so here’s the story…
A few months ago, Markus was contacted out of the blue by Cottage Properties, a company that specializes in selling farmhouses—called “masias” in the Catalonia region, as we learned. One of their wealthy clients had bought a stunning property in Tossa de Mar and was in the midst of renovations.
They wanted a custom-built Nordic-style sauna with a wood-fired stove and a matching plunge pool, of the highest quality materials. It was quite the deal—especially since the new homeowner is a bit of a big name (I can’t say more!).
Despite the unusual timing, it turned out to be one of the most interesting jobs we’ve ever done. And Cottage Properties were an absolute delight to work with. If you are ever looking for masias for sale in Catalonia then do check out their website.
So, Christmas in Tossa de Mar?
Strange, yes, but definitely one to remember.
About Tossa de Mar
Tossa de Mar is truly magical. Honestly. Stunning.
Nestled on the Girona coast, it’s a charming mix of golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and ancient history. The medieval walled town, the “Vila Vella”, with its stone towers and cobbled streets, feels like stepping back in time. Add to that the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, and it’s no wonder Tossa is a favorite spot for travelers seeking both beauty and tranquility.
(Ok..we did giggle a bit at the name. But the English insult is totally out of place!)
Just inland, the Cadiretes Massif is a rugged natural paradise of pine forests, rocky peaks and hidden trails. It’s a haven for hikers and trail runners and has one of the most popular in Spain, we’re told.
We encountered numerous hikers and trail runners even in December!
For me, Tossa de Mar is the perfect blend of seaside relaxation and wild adventure. One minute you’re enjoying fresh seafood by the beach, and the next, you’re climbing through the lush trails of the Cadiretes. It’s a place that leaves an impression—and, in our case, some very happy memories.
The Trail Running Route
The Tossa de Mar – Cadiretes Massif Trail is a stunning 10-km loop that combines the best of both worlds: breathtaking coastal views and peaceful mountain paths.
There are more trails that lead in towards the Puig de ses Cadiretes, which is the highest point in the Cadiretes protected area.
But this route we found on AllTrails.com lets your start in the heart of Tossa de Mar on the beachfront, along rugged cliffs and picturesque coves before heading inland through the Cadiretes Massif, finishing back at the beach below the iconic medieval castle.
Markus and I followed the route (see below) but added our own twist, as always. The trail begins with a steep climb out of Tossa along the Cami de Ronda, passing Cala Bona and Cala Pola (two beautiful coves that had us dreaming of coming back in the summer for a swim!) The ups and downs along this stretch are intense, with steep climbs out of each cove that will test your legs and your stamina.
NOTE: After Cala Pola, the trail skirts around a campsite that’s now closed. While the AllTrails route used to pass through the campsite, we followed a detour along the road to rejoin the inland trail. It’s a small adjustment, but worth noting as the construction can be a bit confusing.
After climbing in and out of these coves, we reached the trail’s inland section, where the scenery shifts to rolling hills, shaded pine forests and rocky paths. As we descended back into town, the trail passes through La Puigmola before finishing at Tossa’s medieval castle and beach.
Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and sturdy shoes—the steep climbs around the coves and the detours inland are no joke even in December!
AllTrails.com route
View from the Mirador Tossa de Mar
One of many stunning calls or coves along the coastal route.
The route back into town goes along a section of road without pavement, which isn’t ideal.