Costa Brava in October

In October, we took a hoopoe south to the Costa Brava, where we hoped it would be warm, sunny and relaxing. We had plans to visit nature reserves, wetlands, mountains, cliffs and volcanoes to see many species of birds in Catalonia.

As it turned out, we didn't go far.

It was far from being a beach holiday, but as it was sunny, warm and out of season, the empty beaches and warm sea proved more inviting than getting into the car and driving long distances.

The area around Palafruguell doesn't appear on Naturetrek itineries, but it is not one of the high-rise horrors of the Costa Brava. It's smart and in October you have the place to yourself. There are plenty of interesting and well-signed paths, leading to secluded rocky bays, perfect for snorkeling.

And instead of seeing lots of birds, we were surprised to see plenty of.......... but that will have to wait for the next blog. The habitats above and below may, however give a clue.