Where the land comes to an end: the Cap de Creus

ROSES / CATALONIA / SPAIN:

The easternmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula has always inspired the imagination of the people here. Salvador Dalí, who had a good view of the Cap de Creus from his house in Port Lligat, is quoted as saying that he is the first person on the Iberian Peninsula who sees the sun every morning. The landscape of the peninsula is the most beautiful, what Catalonia and the Costa Brava have to offer. However, they are not pretty, the rocks of Cap de Creus, rather harsh and wild. The eternal wind and the stony ground prevent more than a few isolated trees from settling. The vegetation is rather unspectacular and consists mainly of low bushes and grasses. However, it contributes an olfactory component that shapes the impression of the wanderer. It smells everywhere: juniper and Schopflavendel, rosemary and various Zistrosenarten - this landscape can be experienced with all senses. The geology at Cap de Creus is complicated and varied (which is why you can see student groups clawing around in the area with geological hammers - not recommended for imitation, you need an extra permit from the park management!). For millions of years, volcanoes and the forces of plate tectonics have created a landscape of wild, rugged bizarre rock formations that are only barely covered by vegetation. Practical information: From Cadaques there is a hiking trail to Cap de Creus, there are about 16 km to and fro. At the Cape you can eat something in the restaurant Cap de Creus. There is also a bar right by the lighthouse, which is only open during the season. The Parque Natural Cap de Creus maintains an information center at the lighthouse with a small exhibition on the park.