La Selva de Mar is a hidden gem in the Alt Empordà region, located within the Cap de Creus Natural Park. Surrounded by Mediterranean hills and just 2 km from the sea, this village offers a mix of rural landscapes, history, and peace — perfect for those seeking authenticity without the crowds.
1. How to get there?
- By car: Take the paved road that follows the Selva stream. The scenic route leads straight to the village centre.
- By bike or on foot: It’s part of local routes from Port de la Selva or Sant Pere de Rodes. There are trails suitable for adventurous cyclists.
2. What to see and do
- Fountains and traditional corners
- Font dels Lledoners and Font de Mollor: natural springs shaded by ash trees, ideal for cooling off like the locals did in the past.
- Rural heritage
- Romanesque churches such as Sant Esteve and Sant Sebastià (13th century), with a defensive tower.
- Can Vives: an old fortified house reflecting defensive architecture.
- Public washing place, traditional bridges, and remnants of iron mines.
- Archaeological and historical treasures
- Medieval ruins linked to the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes.
- Castle of Verdera to the north: accessible ruins offering panoramic views of Alt Empordà, the Gulf of Roses, and even the Pyrenees.
- Nature trails
- Circular paths through forests, olive groves, and cypress trees.
- Trails connecting the village with the monastery, coastline, and Cap de Creus viewpoints.
3. Best time to visit
- Off-peak (midweek in spring and autumn): the village is calm and nearly deserted.
- Summer: perfect for combining hikes with cultural visits, though weekends can get busy.
4. Nearby activities
- Visits to Sant Pere de Rodes and the Castle of Verdera.
- Explore Port de la Selva: coves, seafood cuisine, and its fishing village charm.
- Hikes to Cadaqués or the Cap de Creus lighthouse via panoramic trails.
5. Gastronomía y alojamiento
- Though the village is small and has no eateries of its own, nearby towns like Port de la Selva and Llançà offer fresh fish taverns and local dishes.
- Stay in rural guesthouses or coastal accommodations.
6. Conservation and good practices
The Cap de Creus Natural Park is protected: access to land and sea areas is regulated. Stay on marked trails, don’t disturb wildlife, and avoid anchoring in protected marine zones.
Practical tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes — cobbled streets and rural paths require sturdy footwear.
- While driving offers flexibility, biking and hiking give the experience a different perspective.
- La Selva de Mar is highly photogenic — take your time to capture fountains, rural buildings, and the natural surroundings.
La Selva de Mar is a treasure for those who seek peace, history, and authentic nature. An ideal setting to unwind, explore, and be amazed by the richness of Alt Empordà.
