Car Hire Roses - Mini guide to Roses
The former Greek colony of Roses, with its privileged position between the sea and the mountains and the proximity of two fabulous nature reserves, is an ideal destination for nature lovers.
The Bay of Roses and the coastline beyond are permeated by enough gorgeous beaches and quiet coves to satisfy even the most discerning traveller. Set among a backdrop of rocky cliffs, the fine sand and clear waters provide an excellent environment in which to laze away your days.
If you can tear yourself away from the beach, the town contains several sites of significant historical interest. On the eastern end of town is the massive military construction of La Ciudadela (the Citadel), which was built as a defensive structure in 1543 and has been declared a historic-artistic site.
The Citadel covers an expanse of 130,000 square metres, and its boundaries enclose the remains of the ancient Greek city of Rhodes (776 BC); the Roman town; an 11th century monastery; and the old Greek district from the 3rd century BC. In the heart of town stands the proud Modernist construction of the Church of Santa Maria la Casa Mallol, which is worth a visit for its superb ornamental ceilings and stained glass detail.
Many of Roses’ beaches are marked with the Blue Flag symbol – a testament to the remarkable quality of their environment. While sunbathing and swimming are the lone pursuits of many a weary traveller, there is a variety of water sports to engage the more active visitor, including snorkelling and diving in the crystal waters of the Costa Brava.
The Pyrenees foothills and the two nearby nature reserves – the Cap de Creus and the Aiguamolls de l’Empordi nature parks – provide first class opportunities for hiking and bird-watching. Roses also has a vibrant nightlife, and you can enjoy drinks or sample the regional cuisine at the bars and restaurants scattered along beautiful parts of the coast.
Nearby attractions include: the Dali Theatre-Museum at Figueres, the walled town at Girona, the Church of Sant Pere de Rodes at Port de la Selva and the medieval town of Pals.
By car from either Girona or France you can reach Roses by initially taking the Autopista del Mediterraneo, and then the C260 from Figueres. Buses and trains run daily between Barcelona and Figueres, from where local transport is provided to Roses. The town is served by Barcelona Airport, which receives both national and international flights.
