Spain: Spot Rosas
The Golf de Roses is an old favourite in the surfing scene. Funboarders discovered the advantages of the elongated bay on the northern Spanish Mediterranean coast back in the 1980s. In comparison to the tourist strongholds of Lloret de Mar and other Ballermann derivatives, things are much more tranquil between L' Escala and Rosas, although there are more than enough options for a varied evening programme.
However, what makes the area particularly attractive for windsurfers are the good windsurfing conditions and the mild climate, even in autumn and spring. In the summer months, a reliable thermal from the south-east sets in around midday, which is often strengthened by the south wind "Garbi". Between four and six Beaufort then blow until late afternoon and ensure perfect freeriding conditions. If, on the other hand, the sky clears up extremely and the current turns to the north, then caution is advised on the one hand, but on the other, the hearts of hardcore windsurfers beat much faster.
It is not uncommon for the Tramuntana to hit the region almost without warning, especially in the winter months. The cold northerly wind can rattle through the streets for a few days with more than seven Beaufort. The PWA slalom worldcuppers also have their hands full then. Every year in late spring, they make a guest appearance at the La Ballena Alegre campsite. Although campsite is rather the wrong term for the huge holiday resort. In addition to more than 800 large pitches for motorhomes, tents and caravans, there are also around 320 bungalows, which are equipped with everything that is important for a family - air conditioning, kitchen, TV and WiFi are always included. In addition to two restaurants, barbecue bars, ice cream parlour and creperie, there is also a large entertainment programme and a mini club for children from the age of four.
Professional surf centre on site The ION Club, formerly known as Club Mistral, has been based directly in front of the campsite since 2004. The Fanatic/North station is ideally located in the bay, with both the thermals and the Tramuntana coming sideshore - thermals from the right, Trami from the left. The club caters for all water sports enthusiasts: kiters have their own zone, SUP boards in various sizes are available and windsurfing lessons start for kids from the age of six with children's sails from one square metre.
Especially in the morning, when the thermals are only slowly building up, beginners and intermediates will find perfect conditions in the shallow zone. The hire centre has the right equipment for every wind, from large freeriders to wave kites plus matching sails. There is also an absolute novelty at the ION Club: it is the first centre in Spain to offer foil surfing. With a wind of just six to eight knots, you can float across the Mediterranean on a foil. I'm sure every windsurfer has wanted to try this at some point.
Conclusion: The La Ballena Alegre campsite and the ION Club offer a very good combination for a family holiday and the wind conditions in summer are ideal for beginners, intermediates and freeriders. In the winter months, good surfers can look forward to strong wind sessions with waves.
