More than 100 kilometers of coastal paths run the length of the Costa Brava, from Blanes to Portbou. Sometimes they are steep and rocky, winding through pine forests and along cliffs, right next to the sea. Historically, fishermen and sailors used them to travel on foot between coastal towns, patrolled by the Civil Guard and the Carabineros to control smuggling. Now, they are frequented mainly by hikers on trails or beachgoers seeking access to more secluded coves. But in many places along this route, there are barriers. Despite being a public area, villas and private properties block access with threatening signs, forcing walkers to take detours along forest tracks or footpaths. In Garbet, A property belonging to the Peralada Group diverts pedestrians for 300 meters over the rocks. In Lloret, a mansion belonging to a Kazakh tycoon It also closes the path, and in Palafrugell, from Golfet beach to the Cap Roig Gardens, owned by the La Caixa Foundation, it is impossible to walk along the seafront.