l’estartit – the pirates Attacked the coasts of the Costa Brava from the 16th century. The Illes Medes, Spanish Islas Medas and German Medas Islands – a small group of seven uninhabited islands at L’Estartit – were once a place of refuge pirates.
L’startit at a glance
- location: On the Costa Brava in front of the Montgrí massif and the Ter estuary
- Medes Islands: A nautical mile off the beach of L’Estartit. The archipelago consists of seven islets with an area of around 23 hectares
- protected area: The islands belong to the Montgrí Nature Park, Illes Medes and Baix Ter and are one of the most important marine protected areas in the western Mediterranean Sea
- Diving: Popular dive destination for beginners and professionals. On the islands lies the wreck Reggio Messina, which was intentionally sunk in 1991. More on that in Diving on the Costa Brava
- Excursion without diving: Glass bottom boat trips around the islands and along the Montgrí coast
Meda Island – L’Startit
about a nautical mile from the beach l’estartit The seven small islets rise away from the sea. Today they are one of the most important marine animal and plant reserves of the western Mediterranean and with their unique Flora and fauna Desired destination for scuba divers.

Diving – Medas Islands at L’Estartit
The number of daily dives is limited so as not to endanger the natural paradise underwater: the seabed with caves full of red corals and extensive Neptungrass fields is strictly protected. But also from the countryside there is a spectacular backdrop. The former pirate islands are picturesquely close to the beaches and the sports port, which is newly developed and is about to be completed and gives the small town by the sea a lot of new charm.

New beach promenade
L’Estartit has also been scoring for some time with its new extended beach promenade. Now you not only stroll along the harbor facilities but can comfortably past the last houses with a view of the unique Medes Islands Immerse yourself in the bizarre rocky setting at El Molinet and Roca d’en Boni. There are many benches with sea views.

Paseo del Molinet – L’Estartit
The Paseo del Molinet is also well lit. You can always take an evening walk in the early twilight or watch the full moon on your hike over the firmament.

restaurants
In l’estartit A lot has happened in recent years. This is how new restaurants were created right by the sea. Many have a modern and welcoming character.
Tip: “At Tramuntana, you can also sit protected from the wind in the street cafés at the port of L’Estartit and enjoy the view of the stormy sea and the rocky peaks of the Medes Islands.

L’Estartit near Tramuntana
The roaring sea at your feet, if you breathe the salty sea air during the day, watch the sailing seagulls and dream yourself out to sea. Here you can let your thoughts fly, forget the world and send your dreams to heaven. In autumn alone with spray, wind and water – what could be nicer to experience!
Frequently asked questions about L’EstartIT
What are the Medes Islands?
The Medes Islands (Illes Medes) are an archipelago of seven islets a nautical mile off L’Estartit. They form one of the most important marine protected areas in the western Mediterranean.
Can you dive at L’Estartit?
Yes, the Medes Islands are a popular diving destination. The different depths offer dives for all levels of experience.
What is the Reggio Messina?
The Reggio Messina is the largest ship divers can visit on the Costa Brava. In 1991 it was intentionally sunk at the Medes Islands.
Are there trips to the Medes Islands without diving?
Yes, with glass bottom boats you can experience the islands and the Montgrí coast from the water.
Sources for the information in the box and in the questions: Visit l’Estartit: Medes Islands. Times, prices and rules change, please check the operator before visiting.















































