Medieval Gems Nearby: Pals, Ullastret, and Sant Martí d’Empúries Day Trip Itinerary
If you’re staying at Camping Les Medes and craving a culture-rich escape beyond the beach, this Pals, Ullastret, and Sant Martí d’Empúries day trip itinerary is your perfect route. In a single day, you’ll climb to a panoramic viewpoint, step through a beautifully preserved medieval core, explore a major Iberian archaeological site, and stroll a coastal path with sweeping sea views.
Set out from our location in front of the Medes Islands Nature Reserve, just 2 km from the centre of L’Estartit and 800 m from the beach, and discover three unforgettable stops—each within easy reach.
Why this day trip works from Camping Les Medes
- Close distances, big rewards. Pals (15 km), Ullastret (15 km), and Sant Martí d’Empúries (21 km) are nearby, making a full, varied day effortless.
- Distinct highlights. From the Josep Pla viewpoint in Pals to the Iberian settlement of Ullastret and the coastal path in Sant Martí d’Empúries, every stop offers a signature experience.
- A journey through time. You’ll move from Gothic streets and rice-growing heritage to one of the most important Iberian sites on the Mediterranean, then on to the historic seat of the Count of Empúries.
Itinerary at a glance
| Stop | Distance from Camping Les Medes | Why go | Top highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pals | 15 km | Hilltop medieval village with a stellar lookout | Josep Pla viewpoint; Pedró (Gothic historic core); rice-growing tradition |
| Ullastret | 15 km | Small medieval village with a major Iberian site nearby | Iberian settlement of Ullastret; part of the Route of the Iberians; River Daró setting |
| Sant Martí d’Empúries | 21 km | Historic coastal district with sea views | Church; coastal path; Ruins of Empúries (access via the Archaeological Museum); former seat of the Count of Empúries until 1064 |
Step-by-step day trip itinerary
Morning: Pals and the Josep Pla viewpoint
Begin in Pals, a picturesque town perched atop Puig Aspre. Walk up to the Josep Pla viewpoint for marvellous views over the Empordà Plain and the Medes Islands. The light in the morning is often crisp, making the landscape pop.
On the way, wander through the Pedró, the Gothic historic centre you pass en route to the lookout. The stone lanes and harmonious architecture offer a timeless feel that invites slow strolling.
Pals is also renowned for its rice-growing tradition, and some accounts consider it one of the possible ports from which Christopher Columbus might have set sail. While you’re here, take a few moments to absorb the village’s layered history before heading inland.
Midday: Ullastret and its Iberian legacy
Continue to Ullastret, a small, well-preserved medieval village near the River Daró. Just outside the village sits the Iberian settlement of Ullastret, one of the largest and most important Iberian sites on the Mediterranean and part of the Route of the Iberians.
Allow time to explore the site’s setting and imagine daily life in pre-Roman times. This stop pairs perfectly with a relaxed lunch in the area before you push on to the coast.
Afternoon: Sant Martí d’Empúries and the coastal path
End your day at Sant Martí d’Empúries, the district of L’Escala that has been inhabited the longest and the seat of the Count of Empúries until 1064. Admire the church in the heart of the village, then take the coastal path to enjoy unbroken sea views.
Not far from the village you’ll find the Ruins of Empúries—an archaeological site considered the gateway for Greek and Roman cultures to the Iberian Peninsula. To visit the ruins, go via the Archaeological Museum. It’s a powerful way to round off a day that spans medieval, Iberian, Greek, and Roman footprints.
Optional detours and next-day ideas
- Peratallada (12 km): Among the best-preserved medieval villages in the area, perfect for getting lost in beautiful corners. Note: in high season, car parking is paid due to the high influx of visitors.
- La Bisbal d’Empordà (23 km): Capital of the Baix Empordà, known for pottery in all its splendour and a range of shops and craft workshops.
- Girona (40 km): A cathedral city with an evocative Jewish Quarter, Romanesque monastery, colourful houses on the Onyar, original bridges, and panoramic medieval walls. Excellent shopping streets and restaurants, including Michelin-starred spots.
- Figueres (42 km): Dynamic cultural hub, birthplace of Salvador Dalí, home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Technology Museum of the Empordà. Don’t miss Sant Ferran Castle, considered the largest bastioned fortress in Europe.
- Banyoles (44 km): Cherished for its lake—enjoy it walking, cycling, or rowing—and a charming medieval core.
Frequently asked questions
How far are Pals, Ullastret, and Sant Martí d’Empúries from Camping Les Medes?
- Pals: 15 km
- Ullastret: 15 km
- Sant Martí d’Empúries: 21 km
What can I see at the Josep Pla viewpoint in Pals?
You’ll enjoy expansive views over the Empordà Plain and the Medes Islands, a rewarding panorama after walking through the village’s Gothic Pedró district.
What makes Ullastret special?
Beyond its medieval village, Ullastret is near an Iberian settlement that ranks among the largest and most important on the Mediterranean and is part of the Route of the Iberians.
How do I visit the Ruins of Empúries?
The Ruins of Empúries are close to Sant Martí d’Empúries. To visit the archaeological site, go via the Archaeological Museum.
When is Camping Les Medes open?
Camping Les Medes is open all year.
Where is Camping Les Medes located?
Paratge Camp de l’Arbre – 17258 L’Estartit (Girona). The campsite is set in front of the Medes Islands Nature Reserve, just 2 km from the centre of L’Estartit and 800 m from the beach.
Practical tips for a smooth day
- Start early for Pals. Morning light suits the Josep Pla viewpoint, and streets are quieter.
- Wear comfy shoes. You’ll be walking cobblestones in Pals and coastal paths in Sant Martí d’Empúries.
- Stay hydrated and sun-safe. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen—Mediterranean days can be bright and warm.
- Plan museum access. If visiting the Ruins of Empúries, remember access is via the Archaeological Museum.
- Parking note for Peratallada. If you add this village, parking is paid in high season due to visitor numbers.
- Combine culture and coast. After the itinerary, enjoy an easy return to L’Estartit’s beach—only 800 m from the campsite.
- Consider public transport. The area is served by regional train and coach links, including routes connecting Girona – Torroella de Montgrí – L’Estartit.
Conclusion: A timeless triangle of history and sea
This Pals, Ullastret, and Sant Martí d’Empúries day trip itinerary delivers three distinct chapters of local heritage—Gothic lanes and a hilltop viewpoint, a major Iberian settlement, and a coastal path beside ruins that mark the entry of Greek and Roman cultures to the Iberian Peninsula.
Base yourself at Camping Les Medes—open all year and set in front of the Medes Islands Nature Reserve—and make culture-rich day trips part of your Costa Brava stay.
Ready to go? Book your stay at Camping Les Medes or get in touch: +34 972 75 18 05 • info@campinglesmedes.com.