Spain possesses assets to satisfy even the most demanding of divers. The sun, the sea, a history rich in tradition, striking geographical contrasts and superb landscapes partly account for the topside success of this country. The rest of the explanation lies in the diving itself: A fabulous underwater realm comparable to any other dive destination in the world.

Costa Brava is 180 kilometres/112 miles of jagged cliffs covered with pines and shrubs that cling to its slopes, sheltered beaches and fishing villages. The sea and its laws rule life here. In general the sea is calm from May to October and offers unforgettable diving. La Massa de Oro, a small island off Cape Creus, is home to an incredible symphony of gorgonians swaying back and forth in the gentle sea.

To preserve its submarine heritage, the government of the province of Catalonia helped create model underwater preserves. As a result, the region is rich in marine life boasting more than 2000 species that include Mediterranean grouper, bream, octopus and lobster amid a breathtaking background of caves, tunnels and drop-offs. Areas like the Medes islands, the Cape Norfeu drop off, the Los Ullastres submarine peaks or Tamariu´s finger like canyons provide adventure enough for any diver. Natural wrecks like the Saint Prosper, artificial reefs like the Reggio Messina at 35 metres/115 feet or more modest wrecks like the Boreas, a 42-metre/135 foot tugboat, invite divers to explore the mysterious depths.

Depth varies from 30-40 metres/100-130 feet and visibility can range from poor to 60 metres/180 feet, depending on the currents. Summer water temperature is 21 degrees Celsius/70 degrees Fahrenheit on the surface and 18 degrees Celsius/65 degrees Fahrenheit at depth.

Just past Barcelona, the coastal scenery begins to change. Heading south, travelers will pass through the Costa Dorada, Costa del Azahar and less known for its diving but still worth visiting, Costa Blanca. Typical Mediterranean animal life is found in these areas in generally clear waters. Diving is centered in the towns of Calpe, Javea, Alicante and Murcia.

Further south, is the Almería region and the Costa del Sol. Here visitors can go hiking in the mountains, fishing or enjoy a pleasant dive anywhere along the area’s 600 kilometre/370 mile coastline. A key dive attraction here is in Cabo de Gata. Divers can see gigantic schools of barracuda, endless underwater meadows and centuries old ships’ anchors. Wrecks include a 100-metre/330 foot long merchant steam ship.

Dive depths average 18 metres/60 feet, visibility reaches 60 metres/180 feet and the water temperature is close to 26 degrees Celsius/80 degrees Fahrenheit at the surface. Further down the coast, travelers will enter the gates of Andalucia with its white villages and incredible blue sky. A little farther away are the mythical cities of Granada, Sevilla and Cordoba featuring houses endowed with shaded patios. The whole region moves to the sound of flamenco music while savoring typical Andalusian gazpacho, a chilled soup made with locally grown tomatoes, onions, green peppers and fresh herbs.

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