
Arc de Portitxol
A breathtaking natural arch sculpted by the sea, set against the charming backdrop of Portitxol cove and the scenic Costa Brava coastline.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Arc de Portitxol
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking natural arch sculpted by the sea, set against the charming backdrop of Portitxol cove and the scenic Costa Brava coastline.
"A beautiful arch, absolutely stunning and very easy to access along a fantastic walk!"

🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available for ~50 vehicles in summer. Try side streets if full. Arrive early!
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk
Walk from L'Escala! It's stunning, easy, and a fantastic way to see the area. [:athletic_shoe:]

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Natural Arch
Portitxol Beach
A stunning rock formation sculpted by the sea and wind, creating a picturesque natural archway.

Coastal Path Walk
L'Escala to Portitxol
An absolutely stunning and easy walk connecting L'Escala to the arch, offering breathtaking sea views.

Portitxol Beach Charm
Portitxol Beach
A beautiful cove brimming with charm, perfect for relaxing and gazing at the sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Embrace the Coastal Path Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available for ~50 vehicles in summer. Try side streets if full. Arrive early!
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk
Walk from L'Escala! It's stunning, easy, and a fantastic way to see the area. [:athletic_shoe:]
☀️ Go Early
To avoid crowds and secure parking, aim for an early morning visit.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The natural arch and coastal views are incredibly photogenic, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available for ~50 vehicles in summer. Try side streets if full. Arrive early!
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk
Walk from L'Escala! It's stunning, easy, and a fantastic way to see the area. [:athletic_shoe:]
☀️ Go Early
To avoid crowds and secure parking, aim for an early morning visit.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The natural arch and coastal views are incredibly photogenic, especially at sunset.
🚿 Facilities
Showers are available, though sometimes only foot showers are operational.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural arch and the beautiful coastal walk from L'Escala, calling it an 'absolutely stunning' and 'very easy' route. The charm of Portitxol cove and the picturesque scenery are frequently praised, making it a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the sea. Parking can be a challenge during peak season.
"(August 2025) A beautiful cove, not too crowded. There are showers, but this time only the foot showers worked.
Parking is tricky; you have to pay, but we managed to find a spot on one of the streets perpendicular to the cove. We went early."
Yamila Battcock
"A very beautiful arch. We walked here from L'Escala along the coastal path; it's absolutely stunning and very easy to access. A fantastic walk!"
Coline Avinain
"A curious arch-shaped rock formation. Sea water and wind have created this shape next to Portitxol beach."
Joan Ramon Zaballos Rubio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to Portitxol beach, where paid parking is available in summer. Alternatively, a highly recommended and easy option is to walk from L'Escala along the stunning coastal path, which offers beautiful views.
Yes, there is paid parking for approximately 50 vehicles during the summer months. If the main lot is full, try looking for spots on perpendicular streets. Arriving early is key to securing a space.
Absolutely! The coastal path from L'Escala to Arc de Portitxol is a fantastic and easy walk, offering breathtaking scenery along the way. It's a popular choice for visitors.
The arch is located next to Portitxol beach. You can reach it by walking along the beach or via the coastal path. It's a natural formation easily visible from the shore.
The coastal path is generally considered easy and accessible, making it suitable for most visitors, including families. It provides a scenic approach to the arch.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to view the natural arch itself. It's a natural formation accessible from the public beach. However, parking in the summer is paid.
Arc de Portitxol is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. The surrounding beach and coastal paths are also open continuously.
The beach itself is free to access. The only potential cost is for parking during the peak summer season.
Yes, Arc de Portitxol is a natural landmark and can be visited year-round. However, the experience might be more pleasant during warmer months, and parking is more readily available outside of peak summer.
As a natural site, there are no specific entry restrictions. However, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and not disturb the rock formations or marine life.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. The arch and surrounding coastline are particularly stunning during these times.
The natural arch itself is the main subject. Also, capture the views from the coastal path, the charming cove, and the interplay of light on the rock formations and sea.
While a good camera helps, a smartphone is perfectly capable of capturing stunning images here, especially with good natural light. Focus on composition and capturing the unique arch shape.
Drone regulations can vary by location and time of year. It's advisable to check local drone laws and restrictions before flying a drone in this area.
Wide-angle shots to capture the arch in its environment, close-ups of the rock texture, and shots incorporating the sea and sky will all yield great results.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the natural arch, relax on Portitxol beach, walk the scenic coastal path, and enjoy the beautiful sea views. It's a great spot for photography and a peaceful escape.
Portitxol beach is a lovely cove, and the water is generally clear and inviting for swimming. It's a great place to cool off on a warm day.
Yes, there are showers available, though sometimes only foot showers are operational. Restrooms might be available in nearby establishments or seasonal facilities.
Yes, the easy coastal walk and the charm of the cove make it a good spot for families. The beach is suitable for children to play on.
It's described as a beautiful, charming, and stunning place. Visitors enjoy sitting for hours gazing at the sea, making it a peaceful and picturesque destination.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the peak crowds and secure parking more easily. The nearby Ruins of Empúries also offer an educational and engaging experience for children, blending history with outdoor exploration.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Coastal Path
This walk is more than just a way to reach the arch; it's an experience in itself. You'll encounter charming coves and enjoy the fresh sea air. Many travelers recommend this excursion as a must-do, especially for couples or families looking for a pleasant outdoor activity. It's a fantastic way to discover the area's natural splendor at your own pace.
The Geology of the Natural Arch
The arch is situated right next to Portitxol beach, making it easily visible and accessible. Its presence adds a dramatic and picturesque element to the cove, drawing visitors who are fascinated by geological wonders. The interplay of light and shadow through the arch, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates a magical photographic opportunity.
Proximity to Historical Sites
Beyond Empúries, the charming town of L'Escala itself is worth exploring. Known for its maritime heritage and delicious anchovies, L'Escala offers a vibrant atmosphere with its own historical center and open-air market. The proximity of Arc de Portitxol to these cultural and historical sites makes it an ideal starting or ending point for a day of exploration, combining natural beauty with historical discovery.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit