Cova des Bergantí

Cova des Bergantí is a sea cave on the coast of Tossa de Mar, on the Costa Brava, sitting right before the entrance to the small cove of Cala Bona, northeast of the town centre. It ranks among the best-known caves along this stretch of coastline and draws sailors, divers and tourist boat passengers alike.

What does the cave look like inside?

The entrance opens up to roughly 12 by 12 metres, with water around 6 metres deep at the mouth. To the right of the entrance runs a side gallery some 37 metres long — it looks narrow from the outside, but its submerged section widens to about 4 metres. The water gradually shallows the deeper you go, until the gallery ends at a small, secluded beach tucked inside the rock. Altogether the cave's passages are estimated at around 224 metres, making it one of the more extensive marine caves near Tossa de Mar.

Where does the name come from?

"Bergantí" is the Catalan word for a brigantine, an old type of sailing ship. Local tradition holds that a small brigantine once took refuge inside the cave while being chased by a pirate vessel, and managed to escape thanks to the hideout. The story has been passed down for generations among Tossa's fishermen, for whom the cave has long served as a familiar landmark along the coast.

How do you get to Cova des Bergantí?

The most common way to reach the cave is by joining a tourist boat trip departing from Tossa de Mar's main beach, Platja Gran. Along the way, guides often point out other striking rock formations, including one nearby rock said to resemble the profile of Napoleon. The cave is also a popular target for kayakers and divers, since both the open gallery and its submerged section appeal to those keen to explore quieter corners of the coast.

Who is this spot for?

Cova des Bergantí suits visitors looking for something beyond the beach — coastline enthusiasts, nature photographers, and anyone drawn to local seafaring legends. The play of light on the water inside the cave, combined with the rugged character of this part of the Costa Brava, makes the boat trip out here one of the more memorable additions to a stay in Tossa de Mar, especially for those who have already explored the town's medieval walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you paddle to the cave by kayak? Yes, the coastline around Cova des Bergantí is a popular kayaking route, though open-sea conditions can change quickly, so it is worth checking the sea state and forecast before setting out.

Can the cave be visited on foot? No — Cova des Bergantí is accessible almost exclusively from the sea, so visits are made by boat, kayak, or while diving.

Where do the tourist boats to the cave leave from? Trips to Cova des Bergantí typically depart from Tossa de Mar's main beach, Platja Gran, from where local tourist boats run along the coast.

Is there a beach inside the cave? Yes, at the end of the roughly 37-metre side gallery there is a small, secluded beach where the water gradually becomes shallow.