Platja del Pi

This beach lies at the extreme north of the Catalan coast, the last one before the French border. Despite the name (Beach of the Pine Tree), there aren’t actually that many pine trees left, and you’re more likely to find yourself in the company of octopuses and fish. The beach is only 500 metres from the main beach in Portbou, reached by following the Camí de Ronda (a costal path) but there are some sections along the route that are more suitable for goats than flip flops, which means that most days you’ll struggle to find anyone but the most determined nudist there. To reach it, cross the Tres Platgetes cove, which isn't a bad beach either and perfectly good for a day with the family. But the true prize lies a little further on – although don't even contemplate going there if the sea is choppy or there’s a risk of strong easterly 'llevant' wind – a tiny space surrounded by black cliffs, with the appealing seabed of the Cap de Creus and a feeling of being very close to the end of the world..