A Sparkling Gem of a resort on the Costa Brava (Tossa de Mar)

Member Name: Tossacostabrava

Product:	Tossa de Mar
Date:	06/08/05 (209 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Unspoilt, no high-rise buildings, views to melt your heart

Disadvantages: You have to go home

Tossa de Mar is an unspoilt resort on the stunning Costa Brava. It's steeped in history, and overlooked by a wonderful 'castle' that blends seamlessly into the new town. Although it's geared up for tourists, it's not over-commercialised and there are strictly no high-rise buildings.

The 'castle' is actually a 12th century walled town - the Vila Vella - which dominates the views in this village and gives the whole place a lordly air. There are three main beaches, all pristine and with access for the disabled.

Restaurants abound, and the smell of freshly caught fish sizzling away on the grill makes your mouth water as you stroll along the promenade early evening whilst deciding where to eat.

This is the place that inspired artists like Picasso and Chagall, not to mention countless poets and writers, to produce some of their best work. And Tossa had a permanent place deep in the heart of one of Hollywood's most famous actresses, Ava Gardner, for Tossa was where the 1950s film classic 'Pandora and the Flying Dutchman was filmed' in which Ava played the starring role. Now a statue of her petite frame overlooks the bay from a proud position within the Vila Vella.

Tossa is the sort of place you can visit alone as it is so easy to make friends - good friends - and it is very safe.

It is charming in Tossa, and the nightlife is fun but not boisterous. Sit, chat, drink and eat, watch some live music, and make friends. And look out over the sea, listen to the waves lap onto the beach, and watch the glimmering lights of the Vila Vella dance on the rippling water.

Summary: Tossa de Mar, hay solo uno como tu....there's only one like you.