Blanes is the most southerly resort on the Costa Brava and not only attracts international tourists but is also frequented by large numbers of Spanish holidaymakers. Like most coastal towns, Blanes has grown from a picturesque fishing village to a tourist boomtown. The resort has 3 km of clean, sandy beaches as well as beautiful coves nestled among the magnificent rock formations characteristic of the Costa Brava. The local fishing fleet ensures that most of the harbour front restaurants and taverns serve a mouth-watering catch of the day. Blanes’ downtown shopping district includes many top-class fashion stores, jewellers, and other shops that cater to the rich. Behind the seafront in the town are some reminders of its past, like the medieval castle of St Joan, several churches and other ancient buildings. Two renowned botanical gardens boast thousands of plant species and provide gorgeous, unforgettable views of the Mediterranean Sea as well as the fabulous coastline. Along with all the trappings of modern tourism, Blanes also prides itself in giving visitors a taste of the real Spain, offering traditional street markets, several fiestas and folk dancing fairs. Blanes is within an hour by car from Barcelona airport and is even closer to Girona airport.