What better way to learn a language than by living in the culture? At Spanish Express you can learn Spanish while enjoying living and studying experience on the Spanish coast particularly in Costa del Maresme. ⭐
This area is located in the north of the province of Barcelona. The beaches of the Maresme are known for their bright sands and for being included in environmental sustainability and conservation programmes 🌴.
Other attractions of Maresme include tasty gastronomy, fascinating museums and popular festivals. An important part of the history of Spain and Europe lies in its archaeological treasures and the tradition of its people.🍷
The Unique Coastal Experience of Costa del Maresme
Serenity of Sandy Shores
Unlike the more frequented Costa Brava, Costa del Maresme offers tranquil sandy beaches nestled against the backdrop of historical towns such as Canet de Mar and Arenys de Mar. The serene beaches here are a contrast to the often crowded sands of Costa del Sol, providing a peaceful setting for both relaxation and learning.
Cultural Harmony and Accessibility
While Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol buzz with tourists, Costa del Maresme remains a haven of calm. Its proximity to Barcelona’s city center allows for a seamless blend of quiet coastal life and easy access to urban culture, setting it apart from other coastal regions like Costa Dorada and Costa del Azahar.
Commitment to Ecological Preservation
In the midst of Spain’s popular coasts, Costa del Maresme‘s dedication to sustainable tourism stands out. Here, one can wander through pine forests and nature reserves, enjoying the coast’s natural beauty and the region’s commitment to preserving its environment.
Cultural Enrichment Amid Natural Beauty
The region’s cultural richness is amplified by its sustainable approach to tourism. The old town charm and the local fishing villages offer immersive cultural experiences that are harmoniously balanced with the area’s natural offerings, such as the coastal mountain range and the pine-scented sea breezes.
Strategic Proximity to Barcelona
The coast of Maresme boasts a strategic advantage with its proximity to Barcelona, unlike the distant Costa Verde or Costa da Morte. This location offers the perfect mix of coastal tranquility and city excitement, making it an ideal setting for those looking to enrich their language studies with real-world Spanish experiences.
Festive Spirit and Community Life
The Maresme coast is also a place of celebration, known for its lively festivals and community events. These local festivities provide a vibrant contrast to the mild climate and leisurely pace of life, ensuring that there’s always something to experience beyond the beaches.
Why visit the Costa del Maresme?
This Spanish region is rich in cultural diversity and history. As a result, it’s a favourite destination for students. Here are some of the reasons why you’ll want to travel to the Costa del Maresme.
Museums
International Museum Day (IMD) is celebrated in May and every corner of the Maresme becomes a dedicated and educational exhibition.
It is common for the municipalities to organise activities and tourist routes through the museums in the area. Some of the most recent museums and exhibitions are:
- Museu Marès de la Punta
- Càntir Museum
- Cabrils Community Museum
- Dalmau Park Air Raid Shelter
- El Masnou Municipal Nautical Museum
- Premià de Mar Roman Museum
History and archaeology
The Roman influence on the history of Spain is very evident in the Maresme region. This can be seen in the vestiges that still remain of this civilisation.
Living and studying Spanish in Costa del Maresme means that its essential to know its cultural roots. Workshops, guided tours and even historical re-enactments are all commonplace here.
In fact, a map of Laietan sites in the Maresme is available online. Some of the best known routes are:
- La yaya del Maresme
- Laietan walk of Cabrera del Mar
- Circular excursion around Cerro de Céllecs
- Route of the four Roman aqueducts
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of the Maresme is characterised by seafood and wine. In this land the flavour is born in the vineyards and begins with the work of the fishermen.
If you plan to live and study in Costa del Maresme, you cannot miss the gastronomic activities that are organised monthly. These include product tastings, cooking workshops and visits to major vineyards and villages.
Another point to highlight is the commitment to ecological sustainability, especially in agriculture and tourism. For this reason, public transport is efficient for visiting every corner of the Maresme.
Popular festivals
The most popular festivals in the Maresme are known as Fiestas Mayores and vary according to each municipality. These celebrations are frequent and diverse, so any time of the year provides ample opportunity for tourists to get involved.
The most popular festivals are known for their fireworks, plays or historical re-enactments, dances or tasting of traditional products. Some of these dates are:
- Festa Major petita ‘ Palafolls (April)
- Festa Major de la Santa Creu ‘ Cabrils (May)
- Festa Major de Sant Joan ‘ Vilassar de Mar (24th June)
- Festa Major de Premià de Mar ‘ Premià de Mar (July)
- Festa Major de Caldes d’Estrac ‘ Caldes d’Estrac (September)
- Festa Major de Sant Nicolau ‘ Malgrat de Mar (December)
These are just some of the celebrations in the region. The truth is that every month there are at least two major festivals in some municipalities. Living and studying Spanish in Costa del Maresme means partying through culture (in Spanish).
Enjoy sustainable tourism in Maresme
You can find a wide range of activities in this region. As well as enjoying the beach, the cultural scene is a must. Therefore, we always think about our plans in Maresme and ensure they do not have a negative impact on the environment.
Enjoy the theatre
Whether it is live music or theatre, these activities are an important part of living and studying Spanish in Costa del Maresme. In the music sphere, there are a large number of festivals throughout the year.
The most notable music festivals primarily showcase classical, traditional, and Jazz genres. Among the noteworthy events are:
- Jazz Festival
- Santa Florentina Classical Music Festival
- Screamin Festival
On the topic of theatre, we have to mention poetry festivals and, of course, the National Amateur Theatre Festival. You can also find circus activities in the circus festival Curtcirckit.
Fairs and markets
Various fairs are organised in the Maresme region to promote the region’s products. These fairs are important at a national level, which is why they usually attract many Spanish and foreign tourists.
Among the most important fairs and markets are the Feria del Cántaro and the Feria de Calella. At the former you will find a wide variety of unique handicrafts, while the latter is more popular for seafood and wine.
Activities for the little ones
Some recreational parks, such as La Granja, plan guided tours for children. It’s very common for schools to take their students on school trips to the park.
The activities are designed for children and consist of circuits or gymkhanas. In these circuits, physical activity is promoted as a key to a healthy lifestyle and sustainable tourism.
Activities with puzzles, sports games or paintball are also common. Fun is essential for living and studying Spanish in Costa del Maresme.
Student Stories from Costa del Maresme: A Journey Through Culture and Language
Immersive Learning in Picturesque Settings
At Spanish Express, we take great pride in the immersive experiences our students enjoy along the Mediterranean Coast, particularly in the idyllic Costa del Maresme.
The vivid accounts they share speak of more than just language acquisition; they tell tales of cultural immersion amidst some of Spain’s most scenic backdrops.
Cultural Interactions in Coastal Villages
Our students often recount their enriching interactions within the small fishing villages that pepper the coastline. Sant Pol de Mar, a town renowned for its white sand beaches and clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, has been a favorite.
Here, amidst the daily bustle of local life and the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, our students practice Spanish with the friendly locals, weaving language learning with genuine community experiences.
Diverse Landscapes and Historical Richness
From the coastal mountain ranges to the expansive pine forests, the Costa del Maresme serves as a living classroom. It’s in these natural reserves and along the narrow streets of historic towns like Vilassar de Dalt that students have found a profound connection to Spain’s rich heritage.
The influence of great artists like Pablo Picasso is palpable as they explore regions that have inspired masterpieces, lending a creative edge to their language studies.
Cultural Festivities and Year-Round Learning
The engaging local festivals, celebrated throughout the year thanks to the region’s mild climate, offer students a colorful tapestry of Spanish traditions and customs.
Whether it’s a lively summer fiesta in the bustling bay of Alicante or a serene evening in a coastal town, each event is a chance to practice Spanish while experiencing the country’s festive spirit.
Experiential Learning with Spanish Express
As the content manager, I’ve seen how these experiences transform our students. They don’t just return with improved Spanish skills; they come back with stories that encapsulate the essence of Spain—from the famous beaches of Lloret de Mar to the tranquil beauty of Costa Tropical, and the historical allure of Costa Vasca.
Our Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP) is designed to ensure that each student’s learning journey is interspersed with moments of discovery, from the rugged West Coast stretching northeast towards the hidden gems of Costa del Maresme to the palm-tree-lined coasts of Costa del Azahar.
The Spanish Express Difference
We believe that to truly understand a language, one must also embrace the soul of the place where it is spoken. Costa del Maresme, with its panoramic views, fresh air, and long history, has provided this and much more to our students.
It stands out as a unique destination amongst other Spanish coasts for its authenticity and the enriching experiences it offers. At Spanish Express, we’re committed to curating journeys that are not just educational, but also deeply personal and memorable.
What is the nicest part of the Spanish coast?
The Costa de la Luz is often considered one of the nicest part of the Spanish coast. Known for its stretches along the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a serene escape with picturesque views. The area is dotted with palm trees and has a tranquil atmosphere, which makes it a perfect holiday destination.
Which is the best coast in Spain?
The best coast in Spain is subjective, but many favor Cabo de Gata. It’s not just a beach but a nature reserve too, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and biodiversity. The area is protected from the north winds, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities like horse riding.
How many coasts does Spain have?
Spain has several distinct coasts due to its diverse geography and coastline. The main coasts of Spain include:
1. Costa Brava: Located in the northeastern part of Spain, along the Mediterranean Sea.
2. Costa Dorada: South of Barcelona along the Mediterranean coast.
3. Costa Blanca: In the southeastern part of Spain, known for its white sandy beaches along the Mediterranean.
4. Costa del Sol: Situated in the southern region along the Mediterranean, known for its sunny weather and beaches.
5. Costa de la Luz: Facing the Atlantic Ocean in the southwestern part of Spain.
6. Costa Verde: Along the northern coast, facing the Bay of Biscay.
These coasts offer a variety of landscapes, beaches, and cultural experiences. Check here for further information.
Where to go on the Spanish coast?
For a visit to the Spanish coast, consider areas that stretch North East. These regions boast beautiful landscapes and popular towns, offering a mix of cultural experiences and scenic beauty, perfect for exploring the country.
Which Costa is near Barcelona?
The Costa del Maresme lies close to Barcelona. It extends North East of the city, is known for its lovely beaches and charming towns. This area is a popular choice, offering a balance of beach relaxation and cultural exploration.
What beach towns are near Barcelona by train?
Many beach towns near Barcelona are accessible by train. These include towns along the Costa del Maresme, which extends northeast from the city. These destinations provide a tranquil escape with stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Where to visit north of Barcelona?
North of Barcelona, Costa del Maresme is a great choice. This area offers a variety of popular towns. With its proximity to Barcelona, it provides a quick getaway for those seeking beaches and cultural spots.
What coastline is Barcelona on?
Barcelona sits on the coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. This location gives the city its famous beaches and maritime charm. The Mediterranean coastline is a key feature of Barcelona’s scenic beauty.
What do you think about living and studying Spanish in Costa del Maresme?
There are endless activities, routes and tourist attractions that you cannot miss if you decide to live and study Spanish in the Costa del Maresme. It is impossible to get bored or frustrated with learning here, and impossible to pass through the area without having learned something new about Spanish culture. 📚.
With Spanish Express you can perfect your Spanish through the Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP). Choose the destination that most appeals to you and you can be sure that you will have fun while improving your language skills.
Let’s learn Spanish together!
