Roses
Roses is a town within a bay of the same name and 3000 years of history. It has an exceptional location and is well-connected with Girona, and the French border. You can therefore easily combine your stay by visiting other places. However, if you plan to stay there are enough things to do in Roses to keep you occupied for long enough.
History lovers might be interested to know that the "rodios" arrived in Roses in 776 BC and founded the city of Rhode. The oldest traces of this city during the ancient Greek period (IV and III BC) have been found at the archaeological site of the Ciutadella (citadel). The Ciutadella is a military construction dating back to the XVI Century in the form of a pentagonal star. Be sure to take a look at the front door ("Porta de Mar"), an impressive example of Renaissance architecture.
The Ciutadella also houses the ruins of the Roman town (II BC to VI AD) and the monastery of Santa Maria dates from the XI century and the Middle Ages.
If you find yourself in front of the entrance to the Middle Age town, we suggest you take the road parallel to the coast towards Canyelles, which leads up to the lighthouse. Once you get there, on the left-hand side you will find the entrance to the Trinitat Castle. If you want to continue discovering more castles then follow the road towards Cala Jóncols and there you will find the Puig Rom castle.
Roses and its surroundings are rich in traces of ancient civilisations. One of the most impressive megalithic groups, with more than 100 dolmens, the so-called Creu d’en Cobertella is the biggest of its kind in Catalonia. This historical gem can be found on the way to "cala" Montjoi (Montjoi Cove).
More impressive remains from Greek and Roman civilisations can be visited at Empúries next to L'Escala.
Many examples of Romanic art are spread throughout Roses. Some, such as the church and the monastery at Vilabertran, make the visit really worthwhile. The monastery at Sant Pere de Rodes boasts impressive views over the bay of Roses.
The beaches in Roses are not just the main town beach, which is nice enough. Other beaches over to the North such as Salatar, la Punta, Canyelles, l’Almadrava, Monjoi and Jóncols which are locally known as "cales" (coves) are well worth exploring. All of these coves are sand beaches and the crystal clear waters are also ideal for snorkelling.
For water sport lovers, the Illes Medes - the islands just off the coast of Roses - offer plenty of opportunity for surfing, diving, sailing, etc. Also boat rental is relatively easy. All are just few examples of the things you can do.
If you love hiking, you can follow the "ruta grecoromana" from Roses towards the North across to Llançà passing through Cadaqués or towards to the West, the "ruta del vi" (wine route).
The National Park of Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, to the South of Roses, is a stop for migratory birds on their way from Europe to Africa.
If you are a fan of Dalí art, the Dalí museum in Figueres, 18 kms. from Roses, and the little towns of Portlligat and Púbol are an obligatory port of call.
During the summer months a music festival takes place in Peralada, very near to Roses. Against the fabulous backdrop of the castle - which houses the casino - opera, ballet and music concerts with the participation of internationally renowned artists are some of the main attractions.
Top attractions in Roses:
- The Ciutadella and the Santa Maria church
- The lighthouse and the beaches towards the North
- The Creu d’en Cobertella dolmen
Special dates to consider when visiting Roses:
- Sant Joan; the night of 23 to 24 June.
- "Festa major"; August, 15
Local market; every Sunday.
And more information in .... Roses
