Camins de Ronda
The Costa Brava has 220 km of coastline that can be covered almost entirely by walking along the shore. This is thanks to the shoreline paths, old routes used for centuries by fishermen and surveillance patrols, which intersperse with mountain paths to cross the cliffs of the rugged coast. The first of these paths to be used for enjoying the surroundings is that of the residential area of s’Agaró. It was founded 100 years ago, in 1916, when the Girona industrialist Josep Encesa bought the land above the “Punta d’en Pau” to build a house for the summer, which later became a residential development. The design was commissioned to the renowned Modernist architect Rafael Masó, a disciple of Antoni Gaudí. A public area bordering the sea was planned for inclusion in this residential development, so that the scenic heritage between land and sea could be enjoyed.
The route we propose begins at the Taverna del Mar, at the beach of Sant Pol in de Sant Feliu de Guíxols. The Taverna, which today is a restaurant, was previously the “Baths of s’Agaró”, and the curious coloured changing huts can still be seen beside it. But we will leave these behind to begin the route to the shoreline path. Just beside the checkpoint of the luxurious residential estate and passing below the Hostal La Gavina, the route along the seashore begins in the municipality of Platja d’Aro. The walk that takes Josep Encesa’s name is perfectly prepared for all types of public. It is one of the most prosperous stretches of road on the entire coast. Next we climb the steps that take us to the Punta d’en Pau viewpoint, a magnificent balcony that dominates Sant Pol beach. Just a metres further, there is a rather peculiar building, a Brunelleschi-style loggia built by Rafel Masó in the gardens of the Senya Blanca, the house of the Encesa family.
The beauty of the crystalline waters among the rocks is more accessible than ever. Below the path, we leave beautiful little coves such as Cala Pedrosa, connected to the walk by steps. Passing this small area we can now make out the dome and columns of a highly-typical vantage point which gives onto a square. This vantage point is a compulsory stop for all lovers.
Continuing along the path below the luxurious houses, the immensity of the sea and the beauty of the rocks wrapped in Mediterranean flora can be appreciated. Small staircases to old piers can be seen below. Without too much difficulty and just a few minutes away, the wide path takes you to the staircase of Sa Conca, which leads to the sandy beach. In the middle of the beach an islet divides this beautiful spot.
The way back can be taken using the same path or through the dignified residential estate overlooked by the pretty church of Our Lady of Hope in S’Agaró.
Photo:
Jordi Mas, Ajuntament de Castell Platja d’Aro.
