Can you imagine a hidden cove, surrounded by nature and where there are hardly any people even in the height of summer? That’s Cala Argilaga, a small paradise on the Costa Dorada that very few people know about.
And today we’re here to reveal it to you and tell you why this cove in Alcossebre has earned the reputation of being a secret spot on the Tarragona coast.
Everything you need to know about Cala Argilaga
Argilaga is one of those small coves that still retains all its charm. There are no buildings in sight or tourist services, just sea, sand, rocks and tranquility. It is about 150 meters long by 15 meters wide, and its ground is sand mixed with gravel and many shells, which gives it a unique appearance and a different feel when walking.
On both sides of the cove, the rocks and small cliffs form sub-coves that provide an even greater sense of refuge. In fact, we could say that Cala Argilaga is divided into three contiguous coves, separated by rocks.
And the water? It is a beautiful turquoise blue color and is usually very clean and clear. . There may be some waves on windy days, but this is not usual.
And although it is not officially a nudist beach, it is common to find people without swimwear due to its isolated environment. However, even if you decide to go without anything, what you can’t forget are the water shoes: the mixture of sand and gravel and the Posidonia meadows make them —almost— essential.
Luckily, Cala Argilaga is never overcrowded, but if you prefer total tranquility, it is best to visit it during the months of June and September, when the weather is still excellent and there are even fewer people.
Where Cala Argilaga is and how to get there
Cala Argilaga is —more or less— halfway between Alcossebre and Peñíscola, within the Sierra de Irta Natural Park. It administratively belongs to the municipality of Peñíscola, although due to its proximity many associate it more with Alcossebre. Although where it belongs, without a doubt, is to the heart of the protected area of the natural park.
And now let’s get to the important stuff: how to get there. If you are staying in Peñíscola or Alcossebre, you are very close and getting there is a piece of cake.
By car
From the N-340 road —the road parallel to the coast— you will find signposted detours towards the Sierra de Irta Natural Park and the Las Fuentes area.
From there, a passable dirt road takes you to the vicinity of the cove. In fact, there is a dirt track that leads directly to Cala Argilaga. Yes, yes, you can get there by car without having to walk, but keep in mind that it is an unpaved road with some potholes. Oh! And be careful, because sometimes in July and August, access to the park by car is limited.
By public transport
There is no public transport that reaches the cove itself —we’ve already told you that few people frequent it!
However, if you are in Peñíscola, Benicarló or Alcossebre, you can take a taxi to the beginning of the unpaved road and from there continue on foot.
On foot or by bicycle
Taking advantage of the hiking and cycling routes that run through the Sierra de Irta, you can also reach Cala Argilaga.
For example, from the Las Fuentes de Alcossebre area you can follow the coastal track or the coastal path that leads south to the cove and, incidentally, enjoy the walk with panoramic views.
Things to do in Cala Argilaga in Alcocéber
As it is an unspoiled cove within a natural park, there are no bars, showers, hammocks, lifeguards or bins here. There is also no lighting or drinking water. That means you’ll have to bring everything with you: water, food, sunscreen, etc.
We don’t want to repeat ourselves, but as the water is crystal clear —very, very clear—, Cala Argilaga is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Don’t forget to bring goggles and a snorkel.
It is also a good spot for kayaking or paddle surfing, and from the sea, reaching places that would otherwise be impossible to discover.
If you like fishing, the rocks are a quiet place where you can cast your line, as long as you have checked the regulations beforehand.
And if after the morning, afternoon or full day at the beach you still have energy, very close by you can visit the Alcossebre Lighthouse, the Peñíscola Castle or go to one of the five best restaurants in Alcossebre.
The vegetation of this cove will surprise you
The typical vegetation of the surroundings includes Aleppo pines —which grow practically to the beachfront—, palm hearts, esparto grass and aromatic shrubs such as thyme, rosemary and… the gorse or argilaga! This thorny shrub with yellow flowers is precisely what gives the cove its name, there must be a reason, right?
And so much biodiversity has a reward: Cala Argilaga has been declared a Micro-reserve of Flora for harboring populations of endemic and unique plants of high ecological value.
Come and visit Cala Argilaga in Alcossebre
Is this corner of the Costa Dorada a treasure or not? It offers everything a lover of nature and tranquility could want: clean waters, unspoiled landscapes and the possibility of fully connecting with the environment.
We have told you how to get there, what to expect and how to make the most of your visit, so now all that remains is for you to discover it for yourself.
Well, that… and find yourself nearby accommodation, because after a long day at the beach, your body also needs rest. For here we have all kinds of apartments so you can recharge your batteries before continuing to enjoy everything there is to see in Alcossebre.
Are you coming to discover Cala Argilaga and its surroundings with Orange Costa?
