Barcelona: Tossa de Mar & Costa Brava very small group

If you’re looking to escape the bustling streets of Barcelona for a day and experience the breathtaking scenery of Costa Brava, this small-group tour offers an exciting blend of nature, history, and leisurely fun. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries highlight what makes it special—think early morning trails, secret caves, medieval walls, and plenty of time to relax in beautiful spots.

What really catches the eye is the intimate size—only 7 participants—which means you get personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. The highlights include walking along coastal paths with stunning sea views, entering caves by small boat, and having ample free time for swimming, kayaking, and soaking up the sun. The only potential consideration? The tour involves a hike over uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with light walking and no mobility issues.

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path day out. If you’re eager to explore coastal beauty, love small groups, and want a mix of guided sightseeing and free time, this tour might be just what you need.

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Key Points

Small-group experience with only 7 participants for a more personalized adventure
Balanced itinerary combining walking, boat trips, free time, and scenic views
Early start allows beating crowds and enjoying peaceful sights
Includes a coastal hike, boat caves, and optional kayaking—value-packed
Perfect for active travelers with comfortable shoes and no mobility issues
Cost-effective at $106, offering a full day of memorable activities for the price

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Looking for more options in Barcelona? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Early Morning Pickup and Sunrise Views

The adventure begins with an early van pickup between 6:10 am and 6:30 am. This early start might seem daunting, but it’s worth it for the chance to see Costa Brava’s coastline at dawn—if you go in September or October, you’ll even catch the sunrise, adding a magical touch to the day. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in a large crowd; instead, it feels more like a trip with friends who share your love for adventure.

The Coastal Walk in Tossa de Mar

Once you arrive around 7:30 am, the day kicks off with a walk along a 2.5 km (1.55 miles) coastal path. Led by a licensed hiking guide, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the sea, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves. Reviewers like Alexander appreciated the “amazing trek” and noted how the guide, Albert, knew just the right spots to make the walk both scenic and manageable.

The walk isn’t on paved sidewalks—it involves some elevation gain (about 90 meters / 295 feet)—so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s a chance to experience Tossa de Mar before the crowds arrive, with the added bonus of catching the quiet beauty of the seaside in the early morning light. The route offers plenty of opportunities for photos and to marvel at the rugged, natural beauty of Costa Brava.

Exploring Old Town and Medieval Walls

After the hike, the tour takes you inside Tossa de Mar’s medieval walls. Walking through this historic fortress, you’ll see narrow, winding streets lined with charming cafes, shops, and historic buildings. Reviewers like Dawn and Lily loved the leisurely time in the town, wishing for more hours to explore its quaint streets and enjoy local food.

This part of the trip provides a taste of local life—just enough to appreciate the town’s character without feeling rushed. Albert, the guide, is praised for his local knowledge, sharing tips and stories that breathe life into the surroundings.

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Small Boat Ride and Cave Exploration

At 10:30 am, it’s time for the highlight: a small boat tour that enters three caves. The boat accommodates up to 30 people, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for closer views. The boat trip is especially loved by reviewers for its uniqueness—entering caves adds a sense of adventure and mystery.

The boat heads north to Cala Giverola, with the ride lasting about 40 minutes each way. For those wanting even more fun, renting a kayak for 17 euros for an hour is an option, giving you a chance to paddle around the bay or explore hidden nooks. Reviewers like Cindy appreciated the “very good value” and the chance to relax on the beach with minimal crowds.

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Free Time at Cala Giverola

Once at Cala Giverola, you’re free to swim, kayak, sunbathe, or simply unwind. The beach is described as beautiful, with some reviewers noting it’s less crowded off-season. You can stay as long as you’d like and catch the boat back to Tossa whenever you’re ready—boats run every 30 minutes, making it flexible for your schedule.

Return to Barcelona

The tour concludes with the boat ride back and the van journey arriving in Barcelona around 4:30 pm. This makes for a full, enriching day without feeling rushed—allowing you to soak in the scenery, take plenty of photos, and relax after a busy day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalized and Small-Group Approach

With only 7 participants, you won’t be lost in a crowd. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated the guide’s attention to detail and responsiveness. Albert’s thoughtful touches—like providing towels, umbrellas, goggles, and carrying garbage—show a real commitment to guest comfort and local care.

Early Access Means Less Crowds

Traveling early, especially in the shoulder seasons, allows you to enjoy popular spots before they become overcrowded. Dawn’s review mentions how arriving early meant having “the city and castle largely to ourselves,” making for a more intimate and authentic experience.

Diverse Activities for All Senses

From scenic hikes and historic walks to boat caves and relaxing beach time, there’s a well-rounded mix that keeps the day engaging. Whether you’re into photography, history, or just soaking up the sun, this tour offers plenty of opportunities.

Value for Money

At $106 per person, including transportation, guided walks, boat ride, goggles, towels, and sunshades, the experience feels like excellent value. Additional costs like lunch and kayaking are optional but add to the fun without breaking the bank.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain during the coastal walk.
Bring sunscreen and a hat—although towels and goggles are provided, sun protection is on you.
If you plan to kayak, allocate extra time to enjoy that activity.
Early risers will get the best experience, especially in peak seasons.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.
Reserve in advance and enjoy flexible payment options—cancellation is free if made 24 hours prior.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, because the hiking involves uneven terrain and the tour is not designed for those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with sun protection like sunscreen and a hat. Towels, goggles, and sunshades are provided, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat ride to Giverola takes about 40 minutes each way, and the return journey is about 20 minutes.

Can I stay longer at Cala Giverola?
Yes, you are free to spend as much time as you’d like at the beach until the boat departs, which is every 30 minutes.

Is food included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of options in Tossa de Mar for lunch and snacks.

What if I want to kayak?
For 17 euros, you can rent a kayak for an hour to explore the waters around Cala Giverola or nearby coves.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Barcelona offers a thoughtfully curated day of discovery, blending active exploration with relaxed downtime. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who prefer intimacy and fewer crowds. The early start, scenic coastal walks, and boat caves create a memorable experience that captures the essence of Costa Brava’s rugged coastline.

Ideal for active travelers who love nature, history, and a bit of adventure, this trip delivers impressive value. Whether you’re seeking stunning photo opportunities, a peaceful escape, or a fun-filled day with friends or family, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just remember—good walking shoes and an adventurous spirit are your best companions for this journey.

Explore Further

If this experience piques your interest, consider comparing it with other Costa Brava day tours or exploring additional activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or cultural visits. Each offers a different perspective of this enchanting region, but none quite match the personalized, small-group charm of this trip.

Embark on this small-group journey, and you’ll return with stories, snapshots, and a fresh appreciation for Costa Brava’s rugged beauty—an authentic escape within reach.