Blanes is the southern most holiday town on the Costa Brava and although it is a very popular tourist destination, it tends to be a more laid back and certainly less crowded than its more famous neighbours of Tossa and Lloret. The town has over 2 miles of fine beaches, and has an old quarter of medieval buildings, fountains and ancient churches. But Blanes still is a traditional working fishing port with one of the top local attractions being the lively fish market that takes place each evening on the quay side.

Roughly midway along the Blanes coast there is a cape known locally as the Sa Palomera, which is the scene of a Blanes fiesta, the popular yearly fireworks contest that takes place each July and dates back nearly 100 years. This competition attracts firework and pyrotechnic experts from all round the world, each hoping to win the famous Blanes Trophy. Also at the end of Sa Palomera is a lighthouse, where you can get some good vistas of the resort.

The biggest of the Blanes beaches is the Platja SAbanell which runs south from the Cape Sa Palomera and as this excellent beach nears the the River Tordera estuary it becomes quieter with the local nudist section. Between the Sa Palomera and Blanes marina is the Platja de Blanes beach which is backed by an esplanade, formal gardens, cafes and restaurants plus small playgrounds. Blanes also has the small coves of Sant Francesc and the Punta de Santa Ann.

On the cape just to the north of Blanes are the peaceful Mar i Murta botanical gardens which were originally founded 90 years ago and have over 4,000 species. They are divided into different zones, each with a seperate theme, such as the cacti display and the subtropical garden, there are also fine views of the coast and sea there.

Blanes has some interesting and historic monuments, including the 15th century fountain and the local church which dates from the early 14th century, although much was destroyed during the French wars the old tower survived.

Blanes has a very good selection of restaurants offering both local and international food. The town is particularly known for the fresh fish, with many of the better restaurants situated along the esplanade. Although Blanes is not well known for its vibrant nightlife, there are a couple of clubs that often feature top DJs. A few of the bigger hotels also have cabarets in the summer season. Blanes has a big local street market selling a selection of items, including womens clothing, jewellery and leather shoes, with products produced by local craftsmen. Tourist souvenirs, plus designer boutiques can also be found in Blanes centre.

The local tourism office is located in the Plaza Catalunya. There is a bus or coach service from Blanes to Girona, Girona Airport plus other holiday resorts of the Costa Brava, such as Lloret de Mar. There is also a regular train service to Barcelona further south.

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