THE LOWDOWN
Golf de Roses is undoubtedly THE kitesurf spot on the Costa Brava in the north of Spain. A spot where the Tramontana, a north/northwest wind from the Pyrenees, and the constant sea breeze during the summer months blow regularly. The long sandy Bay of Roses, on the Mediterranean coast, only 30 km south of the French border has been a favorite spot for kitesurfers for decades … Golf de Roses is not only a perfect destination for a family holiday, but it is also an ideal setting for couples and groups of friends.
Kiting Set Up
During the warmer months in summer a fairly reliable thermal wind from the southeast is the dominant wind in the Bay of Roses. In front of the center of the ION CLUB Golf de Roses, in summer the wind often blows sideshore, coming from the left when looking at the sea. In the morning there is usually only a gentle wind, offering perfect conditions for children and beginners in kitesurfing courses. In the afternoon, this thermal wind increases, quite often reaching 20-25 knots, and the most experienced kitesurfers can finally indulge their passion. Occasionally, waves of varying heights are formed near the shore. However, as a rule, the water is flat or choppy between May and October.
When is best to go?
The best season in Golf de Roses is from May to September.
No wind?
At ION CLUB Golf de Roses we are the pioneers of stand up paddleboarding in Catalunya, since we realised early on that our spot offers the ideal conditions for the sport. Since 2008 we have been renting stand up paddleboards at our center. In the mornings, light wind and flat water conditions, with a wide sandy beach, make the spot ideal for taking those first steps on the board. You can paddle towards the beautiful beaches of Sant Marti d’ Empuries, above the beautiful crystal-clear water and a nice sunrise. Following the SUP session, we gather for a shared breakfast on the way back.
There is also so much to do around Golf de Roses, starting with a visit to the picturesque village of Sant Pere Pescador and its Greco-Roman ruins! Blooming with bougainvillea on every street corner, take time to watch the sun set before enjoying a drink on the terrace or a paella in one of the town’s restaurants.
Another village not to be missed is L’Escala! With a lively atmosphere, you will find more restaurants and bars where it is good to party.
On the leisure side, for scuba diving and snorkeling, or simply to observe the coastline, escape to the archipelago of the Medes Islands on a boat trip. This nature reserve is a little jewel on the Costa Brava.
Further inland, don’t miss the picturesque medieval villages of Catalonia, a pleasant return to history.
