Essential Guide to Discovering La Selva de Mar

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.