Darnius-Boadella Reservoir
A surprising piece of nature in the Alt Empordà
Want to escape the beaches and the hustle and bustle of the coast? In the green interior of the Alt Empordà lies the Darnius-Boadella Reservoir, surrounded by forests and mountains.
And this is really one of those places you might not immediately think of during your vacation, but that makes you incredibly happy once you’re there. Especially in the middle of summer. While it can be busy and hot on the coast, here you’ll find space, nature, water, and above all, a lot of tranquility.
Bring your swimming gear, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t plan too much. You can swim, hike, fish, kayak, or SUP here, but you can also just spend a few hours by the water and then enjoy a long meal.
Swimming, hiking & getting on the water
The reservoir is located in the river La Muga and stretches over a beautiful nature area around Darnius, Boadella, Terrades, and Sant Llorenç de la Muga.
On a warm summer day, a dip in the lake is wonderful. Want to be more active? Rent a kayak or SUP and explore the reservoir from the water. No boulevard or rows of sunbeds around you, but green shores and mountains.
You can also enjoy beautiful hikes around the lake. And be sure to drive to the impressive dam. It is over 60 meters high and from the top, you have a beautiful view on both sides.
Also fun with kids
With kids, you don’t need to organize much here. Swimming, getting on the water with a kayak or SUP, and being outdoors is often enough for a successful vacation day.
Bring towels, swimming gear, and some drinks, and find a nice spot by the water. Because it’s so relaxing here, it’s a nice change from a day at the beach or pool.
The dog can come along
Even if you’re on vacation with your dog, Darnius-Boadella is a fun destination. There is plenty of nature around the lake for walks, and you’re far away from the hustle and bustle of the seaside resorts. And, most dogs love swimming here!
Fortunately, you don’t have to go back to the villa to eat: at Restaurant Nàutic Darnius, dogs are welcome, and your four-legged friend can join you on the terrace.
Dining with a view over the lake
And then one of the best reasons to come here: Restaurant Nàutic Darnius.
The restaurant is located right on the water, and from the terrace, you have a beautiful view over the reservoir and the mountains. You can enjoy tapas, salads, and various grilled dishes.
It’s perfect for a long summer lunch. Order something tasty, a cold drink, and stay longer than planned.
But if you have the chance, come also in the evening.
When the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains, it gets quieter on the water, and the lights around the restaurant come on. On some summer evenings, there is live music, creating a truly special atmosphere.
Reserve a table outside, order delicious food, and stay until it gets dark. An evening by the water like this is vacation at its best.
Practical information
Pantà de Darnius-Boadella
Darnius – Alt Empordà
Girona
The reservoir is about 18 kilometers from Figueres. The drive there is also nice: you leave the busier coast behind and drive into the green interior of the Alt Empordà.
Restaurant Nàutic Darnius
Ctra. Club Nàutic, s/n
17722 Darnius, Girona
Tel. +34 972 56 26 02
View Restaurant Nàutic Darnius →
Opening hours may vary by season. Therefore, check the current information in advance and reserve a table in the summer if you want to have lunch or dinner there.
Our tip
Don’t just visit the reservoir for a quick look, but make it a real afternoon or evening.
Bring your swimming gear, enjoy the water first, and then join Nàutic Darnius. Or combine the reservoir with Sant Llorenç de la Muga: first, walk through the old streets of this beautiful medieval village and then head to Darnius for a swim and dinner by the water.
And if you’re going in July or August? Stay until the evening. Especially when the day-trippers leave, the temperature drops, and it becomes quiet around the lake, Darnius-Boadella might be at its most beautiful.
A cold drink, delicious food, the mountains around you, and a view over the water. Sometimes you don’t need more.
Interested in this side of the Costa Brava?
Escape the hustle and bustle
Swimming, kayaking, hiking, and then enjoying a meal with a view over the water. Darnius-Boadella Reservoir is such a surprising spot in the green interior of the Alt Empordà where you naturally stay a little longer. Wonderfully quiet in the summer, fun with kids, and a great destination if the dog is on vacation too.
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Frequently asked questions
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Is booking with BONVIDA reliable?
Yes. BONVIDA has been renting out vacation villas on the Costa Brava for more than 20 years and is permanently based there. We know our villas and the owners personally and are directly reachable before, during, and after your vacation.
So you are not booking through an anonymous platform, but with an experienced and locally based rental organization with its own office in the center of Empuriabrava.
Do you want to see more about us first? Then check out our Facebook and Instagram pages, where we regularly share photos, news, and stories from the Costa Brava. You can also view the experiences and reviews of other guests online.
Many of our guests return to us regularly. We are proud of that, and for us, it might be the best proof of trust.
Are you still in doubt or have questions before booking? Feel free to call or WhatsApp us. We are happy to get to know you personally.
How do I book a holiday villa with BONVIDA?
Have you found a holiday villa that suits you? Then you can easily and securely reserve it online via our website. The availability in our calendar is always up-to-date, so you can immediately see if your favorite villa is still available for the desired period.
After placing your reservation, you will immediately receive a confirmation by email. This way, you know that your reservation has been successfully received by us.
We will then personally check your reservation. After that, you will receive the final booking confirmation from us, including all the details of your stay, payment information, and further practical information.
Do you have a question before or after making a reservation? Please feel free to contact us. We are happy to assist you personally.
How much do I need to pay in advance?
After your reservation, you will first receive your booking confirmation from us. Then you pay the rental amount in three parts, so you don't have to pay the entire amount in advance at once.
- Within 7 days of your reservation: approximately 30 to 35% of the rental amount.
- No later than 8 weeks before arrival: again approximately 30 to 35% of the rental amount.
- Upon arrival: the remaining amount.
You pay the first and second deposit by bank transfer. The last part is paid upon arrival and can be done by card or cash.
The exact amounts and payment dates are always clearly stated on your booking confirmation. This way, you know exactly what to expect from the moment of booking.
More information can be found on our page Booking & Payment.
Who will welcome me in Spain?
Upon arrival, you will be personally welcomed by us. No key box or unknown intermediary, just a personal welcome as soon as you arrive in Spain.
The key handover usually takes place at our holiday office in Empuriabrava. There we welcome you, provide you with the keys, and give you all the information you need for a great start to your holiday.
During your stay, we remain your direct point of contact. Do you have a question, is there an issue with the villa, or do you need help with something? You can contact us directly.
We live and work permanently all year round on the Costa Brava, close to your holiday villa. This way, we are always nearby when you need us.