On the seafront, the old fishermen's houses surrounding the port have given way to a tourist area that has been developing since the 1960s. And 1 km inland, its center is organized around the Plaça Major, where two of the town's landmarks stand: Sant Vicenç, a 13th-century Baroque church, and a 13th-14th-century Romanesque tower. Popular for water sports, Llançà is also great for hiking, as it is close to 2 protected nature parks - Cap de Creus and l'Albera - and numerous trails intersect. Like the GR-92 and the GR-11, which link Cap de Creus to the Cantabrian Sea.
A varied heritage
From the islet of Castellar, offering views of the Balmeta coastline, to the remains of an ancient fortified house dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, the route from the port to the "Vila" will reveal some of its key features. These include a 13th- and 14th-century Romanesque tower; the Tree of Liberty, a 25-metre plane tree planted in 1870, symbolizing the freedom won by the people; and the walls of the original enclosure. And don't forget the "pedra seca" circuit, where you can learn about the traditional architecture of the 17th and 19th centuries.
Hiking and cycling
When it comes to discovering the surrounding area, the first thing to do is follow the circular footpaths to El Port de la Selva, about 8 km away, or Garbet, about 6 km away, with its lovely sea views. And, of course, hiking, as Llançà offers a circular network of paths covering more than 100 km of signposted routes. For example, you can go to San Pere de Rodes, 8 km away, but after a steep climb, or to the hermitage of San Silvestre, 6 km away, with an uphill section, but also flatter sections. On the cycling side (3 itineraries), you'll discover dolmens and hermitages, as well as an eagle's nest.
7 kilometers of coastline
Llançà's coastline boasts a number of welcoming coves. Two beaches, at the port and Grifeu, fly the blue flag. A route of beaches and fishing arts links this coastline via 7 information points, located on the main beaches: Cap de Ras, Grifeu, Le Port, Le Castellar, La Farella, Les Tonyines and Cau del Llop. Discover ancient fishing practices such as long-lining and madrague. For those who prefer wild, tranquil bathing spots, we recommend Cap de Ras, within easy reach of the town.
Homemade langoustines
The coastline means that shellfish and fresh fish will be on the menu in the village. But a stay in Llançà will also be an opportunity to discover the local star, the Escarmarlà, small, tasty langoustines. Whether in the restaurant or at the tastings regularly organized throughout the year via the gastronomic days or the wine & music festival introducing you to local flavours during the summer months. And don't forget that DO Empordà wines and oils can be included in your gourmet basket.
Fun discoveries
Would you like to take a playful approach to the village and test your knowledge of it? Two escape games have been developed to meet these needs. One focuses on the Vila, the other on the port. On this occasion, you'll have to solve a number of riddles. The method is simple: scan the QR code available from tourist offices. Once you've downloaded the application, you don't need to be connected to the Internet. Available in French, these games can be played with the whole family, alone or with friends. And, all year round..
Smart info
The website for everything you need to know about Llançà.
Available in French, it includes a wide range of sections on heritage, nature and experiences, with all the addresses you need for accommodation, food and the various activities on offer (over 500 all year round).
And don't forget to check out our download section, which gives you access to a wealth of resources in French, such as the various hiking itineraries on offer in the region.
