If you’re considering a day trip from Barcelona that combines natural beauty with a touch of coastal charm, this private tour to the Marimurtra Botanical Garden and Blanes might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed descriptions and reviews paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect.
One thing we really like about this experience is the chance to visit a garden often ranked among the most beautiful in the world, with over 4,000 plant species and jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean. The second highlight is the personalized nature of the tour, since it’s private, meaning you can enjoy a more relaxed pace and tailored commentary. That said, a potential consideration is the walking involved, especially since the garden’s paths are steep and require some climbing—so comfortable shoes are a must.
This tour suits those who want a mix of natural beauty and local culture without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. Perfect for couples, friends, or families with older children, it offers a balanced experience of sightseeing, leisure, and cultural insights.
Key Points
- Exclusive private group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
- Visit one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens, perched dramatically above the sea.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean from the garden’s cliffs.
- Explore the charming town of Blanes, known for beaches, markets, and seaside vibes.
- Comfortable, private transportation from Barcelona with air conditioning.
- Suitable for those with moderate mobility, but steep paths mean some walking and climbing are involved.
Why This Tour Stands Out
This experience offers a lovely blend of natural scenery and local town charm, making it ideal for travelers who want to see a different side of Catalonia without straying too far from Barcelona. The highlight for many will be the Marimurtra Botanical Garden, which is often lauded for its stunning vistas and plant collection. The garden’s location on cliffs offers sweeping views that are hard to match, making it a memorable setting for photos and quiet contemplation alike.
The fact that the tour is private means you’re not stuck with strangers, and your guide can focus on your interests. The included guided tour of Blanes adds context to the town’s history and culture, enriching what could otherwise be a brief visit.
Planning more time in Blanes? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: What To Expect
Pickup and Travel
Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your Barcelona accommodation. From there, the journey to Marimurtra is comfortable, in a private car or minivan that offers air conditioning—perfect for staying cool while enjoying the scenic drive. The 5-hour total duration means you’ll have enough time to appreciate each stop without feeling rushed.
Marimurtra Botanical Garden
Once you arrive at Marimurtra, the experience kicks off with exploring one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Created by Carl Faust, a German businessman, the garden is a stunning display of over 4,000 plant species, including many exotic varieties. Its dramatic location atop steep sea cliffs means you’ll be walking along paths that sometimes involve a climb, so wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended.
Expect to be wowed by the panoramic views of the Mediterranean from the cliffs—a landscape that’s both tranquil and wildly scenic. Reviewers often mention how breathtaking the vistas are, with one noting, “The views are simply spectacular, and you can really see the coast stretching out in all directions.”
More Great Tours NearbyFree Time in Blanes
After soaking up the garden’s beauty, you’ll have free time in Blanes—often called the gateway to Costa Brava. This is your chance to relax on the beaches, stroll through the charming old town, or check out local markets. Blanes has a lively marina, and many visitors find wandering through its streets to be a highlight, with some saying, “The town is full of character, with shops and cafes lining the waterfront.”
Return to Barcelona
In the late afternoon, you’ll hop back into the vehicle for the scenic drive back to Barcelona, ending your day with plenty of fresh memories and photos.
What Travelers Say
Reviewers often emphasize the breathtaking views as a standout feature. One mentioned, “The garden’s location on the cliffs offers some of the most stunning panoramic vistas I’ve seen in any botanical garden.” Others appreciate the personalized experience of a private tour, noting it allows for more relaxed exploration and questions.
Some users have pointed out that the paths can be steep and involve some walking, so packing comfortable shoes and being prepared for a bit of a climb is wise. A few reviews noted that if you have mobility issues, this might be less suitable due to the terrain.
Pricing has been described as fair, especially given the private service and guided elements, but keep in mind that smaller groups incur an extra surcharge. Many found the cost justified for the quality of the experience, especially if traveling with a small group or family.
Practical Details
- Duration: About 5 hours, with flexible starting times (check availability).
- Transportation: Private, air-conditioned car or minivan.
- Guidance: Multilingual live guide available in English, Spanish, French, and German.
- Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance to Marimurtra, guided tour of Blanes.
- What to bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, water.
- Not suitable for: Pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users.
- Pricing: Valid for groups of 4 or more; a surcharge applies for smaller groups.
- Cancellation: Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
The Sum Up
For those wanting a glimpse of the natural beauty Catalonia has to offer—without the hassle of planning separately—this private tour hits many marks. The highlight, no doubt, is the stunning views and lush plant life at Marimurtra, which makes it worth every penny for garden lovers and scenery seekers.
The town of Blanes adds a relaxed coastal vibe, perfect for unwinding after the garden. The private setup means you can tailor your visit a bit, and the scenic drive makes for a comfortable day out.
If you enjoy beautiful vistas, a bit of gentle hiking, and exploring charming towns, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good for travelers who value a personal touch and want to experience Costa Brava’s highlights without a packed group or rigid schedule.
Barcelona: Private Marimurtra Botanical Garden & Blanes Tour
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and climbing on steep paths, so it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who are comfortable with that. It may not be ideal for very young kids or those with mobility issues.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential because of the walking involved, especially since paths can be steep. A hat, sunscreen, and water will help keep you comfortable in the sun.
Can I take photos at the garden?
Absolutely. The views and plant arrangements are perfect for photos, so don’t forget your camera.
Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the live guide speaks English, Spanish, French, and German.
How long does the visit to Marimurtra last?
You’ll have enough time to explore the garden at a relaxed pace, including plenty of time for photos and enjoying the vistas.
What if it rains?
The tour operates regardless of weather, so dress appropriately for rain or shine. The paths can be slippery when wet, so proceed with caution.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans shift.
If you’re after a day filled with stunning views, natural beauty, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, this private tour offers an excellent way to enjoy Costa Brava’s highlights in comfort and style.
You can check availability for your dates here:
