If you thought the Costa Brava meant hordes of tourists on package holidays then think again. Whilst the beaches just north of Barcelona have been highly developed for the package industry, the real Costa Brava comprises mile after mile of beautiful Catalonian coastline reaching all the way to the French border. Dramatic rocky pine covered headlands give way to sandy beaches and coves, some small and intimate; some sweeping stretches of sand providing that much sough after feeling of space and freedom.

Numerous fishing villages and small towns can be found dotted along the coast most with enticing seafront restaurants and cafes. Development in the area is primarily private villas and traditional houses with very little high rise.

Villa sa Riera is located on the side of a pine covered valley overlooking the Mediterranean as well as the beach at sa Riera and large areas of natural woodland. The villa is about 20 years old and was completely renovated in 2009. All kitchen and bathroom fittings and equipment are new as is most of the furniture. The villa now has a very contemporary feel to it.

The villa comprises a lounge leading onto two large outside terraces all with panoramic views, dining room, fully fitted kitchen with lovely granite countertops, four double bedrooms (three with views), three bathrooms (one en-suite) and a cloakroom. There is an 8m by 4m heated swimming pool, a garden with a lawn surrounded by mature Mediterranean trees and plants and a walk-in barbecue. The villa is located in a cul-de-sac so there is no through traffic.

The pretty beaches of sa Riera, Aiguafreda and sa Tuna are just a short drive away. The villa also overlooks the nearby historic town of Begur which, topped by its castle illuminated at night makes the perfect backdrop for long dinners on the terrace. It is also a convenient town for shopping, eating, relaxing with a coffee in the plaza, or strolling around on a warm evening. The Cap de Begur (as the area is known) has been called the Spanish Riviera. The area attracts a cosmopolitan clientele of French, Dutch, English, Swiss, Irish, etc.

Nearby larger towns provide for more extensive shopping including fish and fresh produce. Facilities for golf, tennis, diving, boating, cycling and fishing can be found in the area. There are some beautiful walks with stunning views over the coastline and the Mediterranean. The historic towns of Gerona and Figures are about an hour's drive away, Barcelona by train is about two hours and the Pyrenees about a two hours' drive. There are some beautifully restored historic Catalan villages in the Begur area.