September 12th, 2024

The Sant Daniel urbanization near the beaches of Sant Antoni de Calonge

Sant Daniel de Calonge, located on the prestigious Costa Brava, is a historical and cultural enclave of great relevance. This picturesque place is located on a hill with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its ancient hermitage, its relationship with the Bedós knights and a rich narrative of legends, Sant Daniel has evolved over the centuries, combining its rich heritage with a modern urbanization just 1 km from the beaches of Sant Antoni.

Villa in Sant Daniel with swimming pool on foreground.

Location and natural context of Sant Daniel

Sant Daniel is located on the Costa Brava between Sant Antoni de Calonge with its beaches and the town of Calonge.

Its strategic location on a hill close to the sea not only offers stunning views of the Calonge valley and the Mediterranean coast, but also gives it an intimate connection with nature. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and cork oak and pine forests, Sant Daniel is a natural jewel within the Pla d’Espais d’Interès Natural (PEIN) of the Les Gavarres massif. This natural environment ensures a harmonious integration between urban development and the preservation of the landscape.

History and architecture of the Hermitage of Sant Daniel

The hermitage of Sant Daniel is one of the main architectural monuments of the region. Originally built as a medieval defence tower, the structure was adapted as a hermitage in the 16th century.

Its simple design, built with local materials, reflects a functional and austere architecture. The hermitage has a single nave and a semicircular chancel facing east. Although it is now in ruins, defensive elements such as buttresses are still visible. The hermitage's elevated position offers panoramic views of the valley and the coast, underlining its military as well as spiritual importance.

The chapel of Sant Daniel with the coast of Sant Antoni de Calonge in the background.
The hermitage of Sant Daniel

The life of the hermits in Sant Daniel

Over the centuries, Sant Daniel de Calonge has been home to several hermits who sought spiritual retreat in and around the hermitage.

Notable among them is Jaume Roca, a former soldier and bandit who became a hermit and then an Augustinian friar. Other notable hermits include Miquel Bosch and Antoni Sureda, who dedicated their lives to the care of the hermitage and to prayer. The lives of these hermits reflect a deep commitment to spirituality and the maintenance of the sacred place.

Legends and traditions of Saint Daniel

Sant Daniel is shrouded in legends that enrich its history. One of the most notable is the legend of the birth of Elisenda de Montcada, future queen of Aragon. According to legend, Elisenda was born in a fisherman's hut in Sant Daniel, after her mother, Margarida, was locked away in a fictitious “castle of Sant Daniel” by her jealous husband.

Rescued by the executioner, who was unable to commit the crime of killing a pregnant woman, Margarida gave birth to Elisenda, who was later taken in by her true love, Hug de Montcada. Although the legend lacks historical support, it is part of the region's intangible cultural heritage, passed down from generation to generation.

Transition to a modern urbanization

As the Sant Daniel area has evolved, it has gone from a rural and spiritual enclave to a modern urbanisation on the Costa Brava. This transformation has led to the development of residences, villas and communities that seek to balance urban growth with the conservation of the natural environment. The urbanisation of Sant Daniel has included new infrastructure, such as roads and public services, which have been designed to blend in respectfully with the topography and native vegetation.

Buying a property in Sant Daniel de Calonge

Buying a property in Sant Daniel is a unique opportunity for those interested in acquiring designer villas and houses on the Costa Brava. The real estate offer in Sant Daniel includes a variety of options, from luxurious villas with sea views to modern houses close to the beach. This variety ensures that there are options for different tastes and budgets, allowing buyers to find the ideal property that combines luxury, comfort and proximity to the sea.

We currently have the following large, very comfortable villa for sale:

Facade of ochre-colored villa with covered terrace in wooded area in Sant Daniel, Sant Antoni de Calonge.
Large villa for sale offered by Porfinca Costa Brava Properties

Benefits of buying in the Sant Daniel urbanization

Sea views and proximity to the beach.

Properties in Sant Daniel offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean and are within walking distance (1 km) of the beaches of the Costa Brava. This proximity to the sea allows you to enjoy outdoor activities and the Mediterranean climate.

Modern design villas and houses

The properties in Sant Daniel combine luxury and comfort with an architectural design that enhances the natural surroundings. Many houses have large windows, terraces and well-equipped outdoor areas, perfect for enjoying the landscape.

Profitability with a Tourist license

The high demand for holiday rentals on the Costa Brava offers property owners the opportunity to generate additional income. Many properties in Sant Daniel have a tourist license, ensuring high profitability for those looking to maximize their investment.

Natural environment and nearby services

Living in Sant Daniel means enjoying a natural environment surrounded by hills and beaches, with access to all the necessary services in nearby towns. The proximity to restaurants, shops, medical centres and cultural activities ensures a comfortable and pleasant life.

Villa in Sant Daniel with integrated pool close to the house.
Villa in Sant Daniel recently sold by Porfinca Costa Brava Properties

Sant Daniel de Calonge, the perfect destination to buy a property on the Costa Brava

In short, Sant Daniel is the ideal location for those looking to purchase a property on the Costa Brava. With its rich history, natural beauty and modern housing options, this area offers the perfect balance between quality of life and investment opportunities.

Buying a property in Sant Daniel with the help of an experienced real estate agency on the Costa Brava, such as Porfinca Costa Brava Properties, is a strategic decision to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle and ensure a profitable investment. With more than 25 years in the real estate sector, Porfinca Costa Brava Properties offers comprehensive support, guaranteeing a satisfactory purchasing experience in one of the most desirable regions of the Costa Brava.

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Montse and the Calonge Municipal Archive for providing us with valuable information about Sant Daniel. Their support has been fundamental for the preparation of this article and for the preservation and dissemination of the rich history and heritage of this charming enclave on the Costa Brava.