Kite Surfing

Ride the Tramontane

The Bay of Roses delivers some of Spain's most consistent winds — perfect for first-timers and experienced riders alike.

The Bay of Roses is a kite surfer's dream. The Tramontane — a powerful, consistent northwesterly wind that funnels down from the Pyrenees — creates ideal conditions on the bay throughout spring, autumn, and winter. Add flat water, warm sea temperatures, and a wide open beach, and you have one of the best kite spots in Spain.

The Tramontane Wind

The Tramontane is the dominant wind of the northern Costa Brava and is what makes the Bay of Roses exceptional for kite surfing. It blows consistently from the northwest, typically at 15–30 knots, and can last for days at a time. It's a thermal-style wind — predictable in direction if variable in strength — which makes it ideal for learners and experts alike.

Spring and autumn see the most consistent Tramontane days. Summer brings sea breezes (the Llebeig or Garbí from the south) which also provide good riding conditions with warmer air and calmer sea states.

Where to Kite

The main beaches in Roses are suitable for kite surfing, with a dedicated kite zone established by local schools. Platja de Santa Margarita is the most popular spot — wide, sandy, and with easy water entry. The bay's shallow sandbar makes it excellent for beginners learning to body drag and water start.

More advanced riders head to the northern end of the bay near Empuriabrava, where the wind is cleanest and the flat water lagoon provides ideal freestyle conditions.

Lessons & Schools

Several IKO-certified schools operate from Roses beach during the season. Lessons cover:

  • Beginner (3-day course): Theory, kite control on land, body dragging, water start, first rides on the board
  • Intermediate: Upwind riding, transitions, crash recovery
  • Advanced: Jumps, freestyle, wave riding, foil introduction
  • Equipment rental: Available to licensed riders throughout the season

Best Seasons

  • Spring (March–May): Strong Tramontane, cooler water, less crowded beaches. Best technical conditions.
  • Summer (June–Aug): Sea breezes in the afternoon. Warm water. Busier beaches but still excellent riding.
  • Autumn (Sept–Nov): The Tramontane returns. Often the best month — warm water, strong wind, empty beach.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Strong wind, cold water. Advanced riders only, but very consistent.

Organising Your Session

We can pre-book lessons and equipment rental through our local school contacts before you arrive — just let us know your level and dates when you book the villa. We can also arrange transport from Casa23 to the beach.

Sessions & spots on the bay

Whether you've never touched a kite or you're hunting for your next freestyle PB, the Bay of Roses has a session for you.

Beginner
3 days

Learn to Kite — IKO Course

The standard introduction: kite theory, land kite control, body dragging, water start, and your first real rides. IKO certified instructors.

📍 Santa Margarita 6 hrs tuition All welcome
Intermediate
Half day

Upwind & Transitions Clinic

Already riding but struggling to go upwind? A focused half-day with an IKO instructor to lock in transitions and riding efficiency.

📍 Santa Margarita 3 hrs Level 2+
Advanced
Full day

Freestyle at Empuriabrava Lagoon

The flat water lagoon at Empuriabrava is the best freestyle spot on the bay. Consistent Tramontane, shallow water, and space to send big kite loops.

📍 Empuriabrava All day Level 3+
All levels
Daily hire

Equipment Rental

Full kite, bar, board, and harness hire from local IKO schools on the beach. Range of kite sizes to suit the day's wind. Licence check required.

📍 Roses beach Full or half day Licensed riders
Wave
Seasonal

Wave Riding at Platja Grifeu

When the Tramontane is cooking and the swell builds, Platja Grifeu delivers the best wave riding on the Costa Brava. Advanced riders only.

📍 Llançà Wind dependent Expert
Beginner
2 hrs

Beach Taster Lesson

Not sure if kiting is for you? A 2-hour beach taster covers kite control on land — no water involved. A great intro before committing to a full course.

📍 Santa Margarita 2 hrs Zero experience

Catch the Tramontane

Book Casa23 and we'll arrange your lessons, equipment, and beach transfers before you arrive.

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