Playa de les Tres Platgetes

Introduction

Today we delve into one of those corners that the Costa Brava jealously guards, a place where nature expresses itself in its purest state and time seems to stand still: Playa de les Tres Platgetes in the picturesque municipality of Portbou, in the province of Girona. Far from the bustle of the more well-known beaches, this trio of small coves invites us to discover the most authentic essence of the Mediterranean, a space where the intense blue of the sea merges with the green of the vegetation and the gray of the rocks.

These three 'platgetes' or small beaches are a true hidden treasure, ideal for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in an environment of peace and unspoiled beauty. Their somewhat wild character and the absence of large crowds make them the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway, for practicing quiet water activities like snorkeling, or simply for admiring a landscape that seems taken from a postcard. While we won't find the infrastructure of the more touristy beaches, it is precisely in that simplicity that much of their charm lies. We dare say it's a place that, once discovered, becomes a personal refuge, one you wish to return to again and again.

How to Get to Playa de les Tres Platgetes

The adventure begins even before setting foot on the sand, or rather, on the pebbles of Playa de les Tres Platgetes. Located at the northern end of the Costa Brava, very close to the border with France, Portbou is the starting point for accessing these coves.

By Car

From Girona, we will take the AP-7 heading north and then the N-260 to Portbou. Once in the town, we must follow the signs towards the coast. Access to the coves is not direct by car. We will need to park near the port or on some of the streets close to the Portbou promenade. From there, a pleasant walk, which can take about 10-15 minutes, will lead us to the coves. It's important to consider that parking in Portbou, especially during high season, can be limited, so we recommend arriving early.

By Public Transport

Portbou has a train station with regular connections from Figueres and, at times, from Barcelona. There are also bus lines connecting the municipality with other towns on the Costa Brava. Once at Portbou station, the coves are within walking distance, enjoying the coastal views. It's an excellent option for those who prefer to leave the car at home and enjoy the scenery without worries.

On Foot or by Bicycle

For lovers of hiking and cycling, there are routes and paths that run along the coast and allow access to Playa de les Tres Platgetes. The famous Gran Recorrido GR-92 trail, which borders the entire Catalan coast, passes through Portbou and offers spectacular views. Accessing on foot or by bicycle will allow us to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings in a more intimate and sustainable way, although the last stretch can be somewhat uneven due to the rocky nature of the terrain.

The Sand and Water

When we talk about Playa de les Tres Platgetes, it's essential to clarify that we are not referring to the typical fine-sand beach. Here, the protagonist is stone, pebbles, and boulders polished by the sea, which give it a rustic and authentic character. While this may be a surprise to some, we see it as part of its charm. We advise wearing suitable footwear, like water shoes or river sandals, for greater comfort when walking and entering the water.

The color of the water is, without exaggeration, spectacular. Its tones range from emerald green in the shallower areas to an intense blue in the open sea. The transparency is astonishing, allowing you to see the seabed with great clarity, making it a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. The currents are usually gentle, and the natural protection offered by the surrounding cliffs contributes to the sea generally being calm, creating a kind of perfect natural pool for swimming and floating without worries.

The composition of the seabed, mainly rocks and pebbles, is ideal for the proliferation of marine life. It's not uncommon to encounter schools of small fish, sea urchins, and algae that form a vibrant underwater ecosystem. This biological richness is one of the greatest attractions of Tres Platgetes and one of the reasons we highly recommend it to those who enjoy underwater observation. The purity and freshness of the water are undeniable, inviting us to a dip that revitalizes body and mind in this very particular setting of the Costa Brava.

Services and Facilities

As we mentioned earlier, Playa de les Tres Platgetes is distinguished by its wild and natural character, and this translates into an almost total absence of direct services on the cove itself. It is crucial that visitors come prepared for this reality, as they will not find showers, public toilets, beach bars (chiringuitos), or umbrella or sunbed rental services directly on the beach. There are also no lifeguards, so the responsibility for safety rests entirely on each of us.

This lack of infrastructure is, for many, part of its appeal, as it helps preserve its pristine essence and keep it away from overcrowding. However, it doesn't mean we are completely isolated. The municipality of Portbou, with its port and urban center, is a short walk away. There we can indeed find a wide range of services:

• Restaurants and cafeterias: To enjoy a good meal or a refreshment after a day at the beach.
• Grocery stores: To buy provisions, drinks, or any other necessities.