The Costa Brava (“wild coast”) runs for some 200 km (125 miles) from Blanes northwards to the region of Empordà (Ampurdán), which borders France. This driving tour runs along the coast, from arty Cadaqués to lively Lloret de Mar, and takes in a varied landscape of pine-backed sandy coves, golden beaches and crowded, modern resorts. Wine, olives and fishing were the mainstays of the area before the tourists came in the 1960s and the first part of this route takes in pretty little towns that seem almost untouched by tourism. The busiest resorts – La Platja d’Aro and Tossa de Mar, as well as Lloret de Mar – are to the south, but there are also some unspoiled gems to be discovered on this stretch of the coast, including Sant Feliu de Guíxols and Palamós, which are still working towns behind the summer rush. Take a detour inland to explore medieval villages, such as Peralada, Peratallada and Pals.