Costa Dorada resorts and the best beaches of the Gold Coast for family holidays in Spain. Costa Dorada - golden sand beaches Costa Dorada resorts

Spain is the best choice for those who love a relaxing family beach holiday; you can choose any coastal region, but domestic tourists prefer the Gold Coast - the beaches of the Costa Dorada.

The hospitable Costa Dorada

The Costa Daurada is located in the northeast of the country on the coast of the Balearic Sea (this is part of the Mediterranean Sea). This is the province of Tarragona (part of the Autonomous Community of Catalonia). Its length is more than 200 km.

The Costa Dorada is not only about magnificent coniferous forests and wide expanses of sea, but also bustling metropolises with a wide variety of top tourist attractions.

The climate of the Costa Dorada is mild and it is comfortable to relax in any season. Summers are warm and there is practically no rain. From May to September, the air temperature is around +27-32 °C, and the water temperature is around +23-25 ​​°C. There are practically no winds on the Costa Dorada. The coast is reliably protected from the west and north by the Catalan Mountains and the Pyrenees.

It's a little colder here in winter. Only 12-15 °C heat. But even at this time tourists come here. They flock to cities that are more reminiscent of open-air museums, admiring the architectural monuments of the medieval and Romanesque periods.

Resorts Costa Dorada

The following Costa Dorada resorts will be interesting to visit:

The most popular tourist destination on the Costa Dorada is Salou.. There are a huge number of hotels, a magnificent promenade and long beaches with golden sand. Very comfortable What other places in Spain are suitable for holidays with children you can find out in this

Beaches in Spain, and in Salou in particular, are places with extremely strong energy. People come here to restore health and peace of mind. magnificent at any time of the year. It is in Salou that the largest amusement park on the entire southern European coast is located - (Port Aventura). It is the second largest amusement park after Disneyland Paris.

There are more than 40 attractions located in 5 thematic zones: Mediterranean, Polynesia, Wild West, Mexico, China and a separate theme park for the little ones - Sesame. This amusement park has a solid “appendage” in the form of the Costa Caribe water park - a piece of the Caribbean islands in the Costa Dorada.

You will not have time to visit all the attractions of Port Aventura in 1 day. It is recommended to buy a ticket for 2 days at once so as not to stand in a long line at the ticket office

For those who have already decided on a holiday in the Costa Dorada, but cannot decide on a specific place, it will be interesting to find out which beaches are located near the above-mentioned popular holiday destinations.

All beaches in Spain, and therefore the beaches of the Costa Dorada, are municipal, i.e. free. In addition, topless sunbathing is allowed.

Naturally, this opportunity is not used by adult lovers of naked sunbathing (although from time to time you can meet them even by older ladies), who prefer secluded places, but by mothers of children who take the opportunity and allow their child to run along the beach without clothes or swimsuits.

6 best beaches in Tarragona – variety and quality

The season on the coast begins in early June, but the curious and thirsty for new adventures should come here in May to attend the “Tarraco Alive” festival. This event is dedicated to the Roman Empire and its history. At this time, gladiators and Roman legionnaires walk freely through the streets of the city.

Salou beaches – TOP 8 tourist spots

There are many offers in hotels and in the city for families vacationing with small children - from hotels in Salou of various star ratings to apartments with their own kitchen.

In addition, there is a high level of security, both in hotels and on the beaches. All amusement parks also have safety certificates.

We would like to highlight that Salou is a DTF (Family Tourism Destination Certificate) holder.

Playa de Levante

A very popular sandy beach awarded the Blue Flag. During the season it is difficult to find a free place here. This is also due to the fact that the beach, by Costa Dorada standards, is not very large (1.2 km by 70 m). This place is great for children's holidays.

Levante beach is the most popular in Salou and crowded in high season

It is located next to Jaime I Boulevard and has a developed infrastructure, including a large number of children's playgrounds and attractions. There are also special children's clubs on site, where a child can be left for several hours under the supervision of an experienced animator.

There are also recreational facilities for people with disabilities.

If you are relaxing on the beaches in Salou, be sure to take a walk along el Paseo Jaume I (Marine Boulevard Jaume I). This is a place of amazing beauty, with monuments and famous fountains.

Playa de Ponent

The best beach for families with small children. There is shallow water here, where children happily splash around all day and night.

Playa Larga

One of the most beautiful beaches in Salou. Here nature is preserved in its original form. It is separated from the city by a promenade along which tropical trees and flower beds grow.

The territory has everything you need for relaxation: showers, equipment rental, stationary sunshades, children's areas. There are many bars and restaurants on the territory, and rescuers and doctors are constantly working.

Playa Capellans

Small but very cozy, equipped with everything necessary for relaxation. Capellans beach in Salou is located in a small bay. It is always not crowded here, most likely due to the fact that you have to climb a rather steep staircase to get here. It’s not very convenient to come here with small children, but with teenagers it’s quite convenient.

Perfect for those looking for privacy. For some time now, all guidebooks have indicated that in Salou this is a nudist beach. Keep in mind the following fact.

You can also note such beaches of Salou as:

• Cala Crancs
• Cala Vinya
• Cala Penya Tallada
• Cala Llengüadets.

All of them are well equipped and are within walking distance of the main hotels and campsites.

If you want silence, but you don’t want to travel too far from Salou, go to Cap Salou. This is a small resort town, the beaches of which are not crowded, which means peace and quiet are guaranteed.

The photos of the beaches of Salou are impressive; you want to immediately visit these amazing places. It is worth considering all the beaches of Salou on the map in advance and understanding all the nuances of the location to plan your vacation.

The beaches of Calafell are a sign of European quality

The beach of the same name, Calafell, is a popular holiday destination in this part of the Costa Dorada. Length – 170 m, width – 90 m. This is the central city sandy beach, which offers a full range of free and paid services.

There is a wide and beautifully decorated embankment. The beach is the owner of the Blue Flag, which means that all environmental rules are followed. In addition to this beach, there are the following:

• Playa de Segur de Calafell
• Playa Mas Mel (L'Estany)

These places to relax are also equipped with everything you need: umbrellas, sun loungers, showers. There are playgrounds for children, and lifeguards and doctors are constantly working on the beach. Water and sand are certified and meet the European environmental standard ISO 14001.

The beaches of Torredembarra are popular and environmentally friendly

Playa La Paella is one of the most popular sandy beaches in the city of Torredembarra. It is small, so it is quite difficult to find a place here in the high season (780 m by 80 m). There is an embankment, the infrastructure is well developed. Awarded the Blue Flag and is a great place to relax with children.

You can also note such high-quality holiday destinations as:

• Playa La Paella
• Playa Els Muntanyans

Altafulla beaches – accessible to everyone

Beach of the same name Altafulla is one of the most popular in this part of the Costa Dorada, annually celebrated with the Blue Flag - a symbol of quality and environmental cleanliness.

Its length is 1100 m and its width is 20 m. The beach is sandy, the water is surprisingly clean, an incredibly deep turquoise hue. This place is popular with tourists, but even in high season you can find a place here.

The infrastructure is well developed. Standard services and entertainment are provided here. Altafulla is suitable for people with reduced mobility.

You can get there by (along the AP-7 highway; distance – 100 km). The provincial capital, Tarragona, is just 9 minutes away by car or a little more by public transport.

Beaches in La Pineda - relaxation or unbridled fun

The beaches of La Pineda are great for families with children. They are not crowded; the hotels have children's clubs and splash pools. In addition, the shallow water warms up well, so you don’t have to worry about your child catching a cold from constantly splashing around in the water.

Near the La Pineda beach area there is the Aquapolis water park.. It is definitely worth a visit with your children to enjoy the show with sea lions and dolphins. In the evening, you should definitely visit the Passeig de Pau Casals promenade. This longest promenade in the province hosts special shows for children in the evenings.

There are buses from Reus Airport to La Pineda. It's also easy to reach from Barcelona (just an hour away by bus or car).

Six best beaches in Miami Playa - quality for romantics

1. L'Estany Gelat
2. Punta del Riu
3. Playa de Cristal

Simply magnificent beaches, covered with snow-white sand and located in close proximity to numerous hotels. All of them are awarded the Blue Flag, which guarantees their environmental friendliness. The territory is wide and long, with developed infrastructure. Excellent for children's holidays.

1. Cala del Solitario
2. Cala Misterio
3. Cala de les Sirenas

These are wild beaches located in small, secluded bays. There are no amenities here, but there is incredible beauty of nature, pristine, untouched by man.

Miami Playa is a worthy place for a family vacation. Quiet and calm. You can stay in one of the many private villas where apartments are rented. The advantage of relaxing here is the possibility of hiking in the mountains.

Local guides offer various tourist excursions deep into Spain, such as visiting Barcelona and great creation of the architectural genius of Catalonia Antoni Gaudi Sagrada Familia . And also to small towns, where life goes on as it did many centuries ago.

Beaches of Hospitalet de Infant – mountains and sea

The area of ​​l’Hospitalet de l’Infant is a place where beaches and mountains come together to form a perfect landscape. Among the most famous:

• Punta del Riu
• El Torn

All of them are marked with the Blue Flag quality mark and are perfect for a relaxing family holiday.

Deltebre beaches - relaxation in the lap of wild nature

Playa La Marquesa

A wide sandy beach in Deltebre, more than 1000 m long and 110 m wide. It does not have a promenade. There is quite a lot of space on it even in season, the water is always calm and very clean.

Playa de Riumar

One of the most famous beaches of this part of the Costa Dorada. It is located in the natural protected area of ​​El Garxal and is located next to where the Ebro River flows into the sea. It can be reached through bridges that connect sand dunes, which the authorities decided to preserve.

The beach is very long and wide (2600 m by 150 m). Due to its relative remoteness, the number of tourists is minimal, but it is also awarded the Blue Flag. The territory has all the necessary infrastructure, there is an opportunity for recreation for people with disabilities.

The beaches of Cambrils are the best choice for a family holiday

Platja de la Llosa

A very comfortable city beach in this municipality. There is a wide range of paid and free services. It itself is long (1500 m), sandy, the entrance to the water is gentle, the water is always calm and it’s a pleasure to relax here with children.

Platja de Vilafortuny

A very comfortable sandy beach, which is located in the suburbs. Marked with the Blue Flag, it has a developed infrastructure with a full range of water activities. Despite its rather small size, it is loaded to capacity during the season.

Platja del Regular

Another Cambrils beach with golden sand, marked with the Blue Flag - a guarantor of environmental cleanliness. The territory has everything for a comfortable stay: playgrounds are equipped for children, and an amphibious chair is provided for people with disabilities. This place is popular not only among vacationers, but also among local residents, so it is almost always full.

Platja del Prat d'en Flores

Small but very cozy sandy beach. Marked with the Blue Flag and having everything necessary for a comfortable stay - showers, sun loungers, sun loungers (for a fee).

Platja de la Riera

A small (only 200 m) pebble and sand beach, but popular. It's good to relax here with small children. The place is guarded and rescuers are working. It's always safe and calm here.

Platja del Cavet

Another quiet and calm sandy beach. This place is very popular with couples with small children. It's always very clean and quiet here. It is easily accessible from Salou (there is a bus stop just 50m away).

Platja d'Horta de Santa Maria

Another sandy beach ideal for families with children. There is a children's playroom, a splash pool, and animators are constantly working. The beach is not large, it is difficult to find a free place in high season.

Cambrils is famous for its Medieval Quarter, as well as the Port, Here are the most famous fish restaurants in Costa Darada and the Fish Market. Diving enthusiasts will also appreciate this place, because Cambrils is a Mecca for divers who prefer to dive in warm waters. Here are the two largest diving clubs on the entire coast.

Cambrils, like Salou, is DTF certified, making it a great destination for a family holiday.

If you plan to spend a lot of time in the Costa Dorada and want to diversify your beach holiday as much as possible, use the TarraGOna Card.

It has many advantages: free travel on public transport, free entry to a large number of museums, discounts in restaurants and shops. For those planning a vacation with a large family, this will help save a significant amount.

Unknown Costa Dorada

Here we can highlight the attractive tourist beach at Cunit, which is 2.5 km long and is divided into seven sections by breakwaters. This is a sandy beach, equipped, but, compared to other places, not so busy with vacationers. Here you can enjoy peace and quiet.

Another place unknown to Russian tourists is the beaches in the city of El Vendrell, which stretch for 7 km and cover areas such as Coma Ruga, San Salvador and El Francois.

There are three places for sunbathing and swimming:

1. Platja de Sant Salvador
2. Platja de Coma Ruga
3. Platja del Francas

These are the best beaches of the Costa Dorada, which are marked with the Blue Flag environmental quality mark. The peculiarity and uniqueness of these places is that the water contains a lot of iodine, which has a beneficial effect on the body, especially children. Spaniards usually take their children with allergies here.

If you do not want to be tied to one place, of course, it is better to rent a car. This way you can visit picturesque places where no bus or even taxi can take you. You can rent a car in Salou (read about it), or book a car online in advance and pick it up in any other city in Spain where you are going on vacation.

Conclusion

In our review, we tried to talk about the Beaches of the Costa Dorada, which are worthy of attention and worth visiting, and this is definitely the dream of any tourist. In addition, Spain ranks first in Europe in the number of beach places marked with the Blue Flag for compliance with environmental standards.

While many domestic vacationers know about some of the listed resort towns, like Salou and La Pineda, some are not yet so worthy of attention, which is a pity - it’s definitely worth coming here to see this “golden” Paradise with your own eyes.

The Mediterranean coast in the northeastern part of Spain is located in the Catalan province of Tarragona from the city of Cubelles in the north to the Ebro River valley. The total length of the coast is about 200 kilometers.

Translated from Spanish Costa Dorada ( Costa Daurada in Catalan) means “Golden Coast”, there are incredibly beautiful long beaches with fine golden sand and a gentle slope into the sea. The Costa Dorada covers the entire coast of the province of Tarragona and has a favorable geographical location, as it is protected from cyclones and winds from the north and west by the Pyrenees and Catalan mountains. It has a mild Mediterranean climate, average air temperatures in summer are 28-35 °C, and in winter 10-15 °C.

Costa Dorada is not as well known among tourists and potential real estate investors as Costa Brava or. However, due to convenient transport links with Barcelona and other cities in the north-eastern region of Spain, it has an important advantage. The most convenient way to get to the coast is from the airport in Barcelona, ​​but it is also possible from the airport in Valencia.

The Costa Dorada, once an inconspicuous provincial and budget region, has turned into a popular tourist area. Modern and well-maintained infrastructure of resort towns and coastal villages, unique historical monuments and architectural masterpieces, high-quality roads, numerous hotels, restaurants and cafes, shops, supermarkets, sports complexes, tennis courts and golf courses contribute to the constant improvement of the infrastructure of the resort area. The coast annually attracts hundreds of thousands of vacationers, especially families with children. This is facilitated by beautiful sandy beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea, developed resort infrastructure, as well as proximity to theme parks and water parks.

Rich excursion opportunities, varied resort nightlife, amazing cuisine and local wines of the region provide millions of tourists with an unforgettable experience on the Costa Dorada.

The pride of the coast is the famous amusement parks throughout Spain Port Aventura and Ferrari Land, as well as the Caribe Aquatic Park, Aqualeon Zoo, and Aquopolic water park. Diving is an extremely developed form of entertainment - there is an incredibly beautiful underwater world with reefs and caves in bays, a large number of sunken ships and military aircraft. Tourist tours, car and bike rentals, and visits to the National Park in the Ebro Delta with a huge number of plants, birds and fish are popular among vacationers. Every year, the resorts of the Costa Dorada attract more and more tourists from around the world to their beautiful golden beaches!

Features of the real estate market on the coast

The level of investment attractiveness is considered quite high in. The region is increasingly attracting foreign investors. Beautiful natural landscapes, a favorable Mediterranean climate, rich cultural life in the region’s resorts and well-maintained developed infrastructure contribute to the development of the real estate market.

The housing market on the Costa Dorada is characterized by both comfortable exclusive villas and houses, penthouses built using innovative architectural and design technologies, with swimming pools and terraces with amazing panoramic views, land plots, and apartments on the secondary market.

It is worth noting that in the last 2-3 years new housing has been built at many coastal resorts. Due to the fairly flat terrain of the Costa Dorada compared to other Catalan coasts, the Costa Brava has great potential for residential growth and new construction. In most cases, real estate properties are commissioned by developers with high-quality external and internal finishing, fully equipped kitchens and bathrooms. Many properties are in demand all year round for vacation rentals. The most popular real estate is considered to be in the resorts of Salou, Cambrils, La Pineda, Tarragona, and Miami Playa.

Key resorts on the Costa Dorada

The main resort area of ​​the Costa Dorada is considered to be its part, which is located south of the capital of the province of Tarragona. Key resort cities, towns and areas are:

• Tarragona
• La Pineda
• Salou
• Cambrils
• Miami Playa
• Hospitalet del Infant
• Kalafat
• L'Amella de Mar
• La Ampolla

Less popular among holidaymakers and potential foreign property buyers in the region is the part north of Tarragona. The main resort towns in this part of the Costa Dorada are Torredembarra ( Torredembarra), Coma-Ruga ( Comarruga), Calafell ( Calafell), Kunit ( Cunit).

Tarragona- administrative, main historical and cultural center of the region with numerous attractions. The city is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and is considered the second largest in the Autonomous Community of Catalonia after Barcelona. The local population exceeds 140 thousand people. Tarragona has a developed transport system and urban resort infrastructure, a large seaport, a railway station, a bus station, large shopping centers, a university, schools and colleges, hotels, restaurants, and medical institutions.

Tarragona Tarragona Tarragona

During the era of the Roman Empire, the city of Tarragona was the capital of the Roman province of Hispania Near, and later the capital of the province of Tarraconian Spain. Therefore, the city has many historical and cultural monuments from the Roman Empire, including the Roman Amphitheater, the palace of the Roman governor Pretori Roma, the Muralla de Tarragona fortress wall and the aqueduct and necropolis of the Roman era, the Cathedral of Tarragona La Catedral Basílica Metropolitana y Primada de Santa Tecla.

The city is famous for its landmarks from many historical eras, including the Castillo de Santa Bárbara with beautiful views of the port and cityscape, the historical center with magnificent old buildings and narrow streets. A distinctive feature of the city and its development compared to most coastal resorts is its independence from the holiday season.

Property in Tarragona

Reus is an ancient Catalan city near Tarragona. It is the second largest in the province after the city of Tarragona, the local population exceeds 103 thousand people. First of all, the city is famous for its rich cultural and historical heritage and is an important center of architecture of the era of Catalan modernism.

Reus is the birthplace of the world famous architect Antoni Plàcid Guillem Gaudí i Cornet, the famous Romantic Orientalist painter Maria Fortuny i Marsal and the famous Spanish general Joan Prim i Prats.

Among the historical and cultural attractions of the city, it is worth highlighting the Plaça del Castell and Plaça del Mercadal squares, the L'església de Sant Pere de Reu monastery of the 16th century, the Gaudi Cultural Center (Gaudí Center Reus), which is dedicated to the life and work of the great architect; numerous people work in the city fountains.

Reus Reus Reus

A distinctive feature of the urban architecture of Reus is the Art Nouveau style, which is reflected in the buildings constructed at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. There is even a special excursion route “Road of Modernism” (Ruta del Modernisme) with a tour of more than two dozen buildings.

The city is also famous for the production of the popular alcoholic drink vermouth, and currently Reus is a large commercial center with numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, a railway station, a public hospital and private clinics, bank branches, pharmacies and other urban infrastructure facilities.

La Pineda is a popular, lively resort town on the coast, located between the provincial capital of Tarragona and the famous resort of Salou. The resort in the region is famous for its entertainment industry, including a wonderful water park with various water attractions and a large fashionable disco, and a long sandy beach. The city has a developed infrastructure, there are tourist complexes, hotels, restaurants, cafes. Sports and cultural events are regularly held.

La Pineda La Pineda La Pineda

Real estate in the city is represented by apartments, modern apartments, penthouses, townhouses and villas.

Salou is a modern picturesque resort town and municipality on the Spanish Costa Dorada. The city is the real pride of the entire Costa Doarada. The resort's fame comes from its beautiful wide sandy beaches, palm alleys, and numerous fountains. The number of permanent residents exceeds 27 thousand people, and during the holiday season it increases significantly.

The resort is popular among young people, families with children, and people of retirement age. The part of the resort towards the city of Cambrils is popular among young people, and the part of the city closer to La Pineda is for those who like a family and relaxing holiday.

Salou Salou Salou

The main beaches of the resort are Playa de Levante, Playa de Poniente, Playa de Capellans, Playa Larga. Among the historical attractions, it is worth highlighting the ancient watchtower of Torre Vella, the church of Parroquia de Santa Maria del Mar, the La Masía Catalana estate, the monument to King Jaume I. The huge amusement park Port Aventura is a famous attraction in the field of entertainment among vacationers not only in the city , and throughout the entire Costa Dorada.

Salou has a highly developed urban resort infrastructure, including more than 100 hotels to suit every taste, numerous shops, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, a karting center, the famous central park Salou Promenade, the Bosc Aventura Salou rope park, and the Costa Caribe Aquatic water park.

Property in Salou

The real estate market in the city is investment-attractive and promising. Residential real estate is characterized by comfortable apartments, apartments, penthouses, townhouses and villas. Basically, the market presents objects of the secondary real estate market.

As a rule, the cost of real estate starts from 80 thousand euros on the outskirts of the resort; on the first line, an apartment will cost from 250-350 thousand euros and more. The most in demand is real estate from the railway to the coast, as well as apartments on the second line of the sea in low-rise residential complexes with green areas, swimming pools, and parking lots.

If you have funds in the amount of 180 thousand euros, you can purchase a fairly good housing option.

Cambrils– previously a fishing village has turned into a modern resort with developed infrastructure and all the amenities for a comfortable stay and accommodation for local residents, tourists and vacationers.

The city and municipality of Cambrils in the province of Tarragona is located between the popular resort town of Salou and the prestigious resort of Miami Playa. The local population exceeds 33 thousand people.

The resort successfully combines national traditions and modernity, which attracts vacationers with different incomes and from all corners of the world. Conventionally, the city of Cambrils is divided into three areas: the historical area with old houses, the marina area with numerous hotels and restaurants, and the Vilafortuny resort area for visiting tourists and holidaymakers.

Cambrils Cambrils Cambrils

The length of the coastline at the resort is about 10 km, and consists of 9 sandy beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea. The main and most popular beaches of the resort are playa de la Horta de Santa María, playa de l'Ardiaca, playa Vilafortuny, playa de La Llosa, playa Cap de Sant Pere, playa Cavet, playa del Esquirol, playa de Prat d'en Fores i Regular. The beaches of Cambrils have a long, gentle entrance to the sea, making them ideal for families with small children.

The city has a marina, a yacht club with a sailing school, hotels, and more than 200 restaurants. There are three world-class golf courses within the resort's radius, and the thermal waters of Montbrió del Camp are just a short drive away. Cambrils is also considered the gastronomic capital of the entire Costa Dorada; many tourists are attracted by the floating restaurants on fishing boats.

The city regularly hosts events, a city medieval fair, a culinary festival called Jornades de la galera, a week of culinary master classes from famous chefs, and a horse fair.

Among the historical attractions of the city, it is worth highlighting one of the symbols of the city - the Red Lighthouse, the magnificent park Parque Samá en Cambrils with an architectural ensemble in the colonial style and Mediterranean tropical gardens, the Iglesia Parroquial de Santa Maria church, the Castillo de Vilafortuny castle, the medieval monastery Convento de Escornalbou, port tower of the 17th century, Torre de l'Ermita tower of the 14th century, military telegraph tower de l'Esquirol of the 19th century, ruins of the ancient city walls, emerald museum, mill museum Museu Moli de las Tres Eres.

Property in Cambrils

Miami Playa- a prestigious small resort town, which is located between the resorts of Cambrils and Hospitalet del Infant, with the latter being in close proximity. The distance to Tarragona is 38 km. The total length of local beaches is 12 km.

The resort has several dozen comfortable hotels with swimming pools and fitness rooms, more than 100 restaurants and cafes, supermarkets, and souvenir shops. There are several golf clubs in the vicinity of the resort. The local population is approximately 9 thousand people.

Miami Playa Miami Playa Miami Playa

A distinctive feature of the resort is its unique location between the Mediterranean coastline and picturesque coniferous forests.

Miami Playa is a relatively young resort; there are no historical attractions here. First of all, the town and its surroundings are famous for its cozy bays, some of the cleanest and most well-groomed beaches on the coast, as well as hiking and cycling in the mountains, horse riding, and water sports. It is worth noting that even during the peak holiday season, local beaches are not crowded.

Most of the town is occupied by private houses and villas. The most popular are villas on the first line of the sea.

Hospitalet del Infant- a quiet resort town and municipality in the southern part of the coast, the local population is about 6 thousand people. There is a favorable microclimate, cozy bays and small bays, magnificent sandy beaches and dunes with a total length of more than 5 km.

Hospitalet del Infant Hospitalet del Infant Hospitalet del Infant

The town has a railway station, a marina, comfortable hotels, restaurants, sports grounds, and souvenir shops. There is a yachtsmen's club, which runs a sailing school and regularly hosts sea regattas.

Among the historical attractions, it is worth highlighting the ancient hospital, the ancient chapel and the church. First of all, the resort town of Hospitalet del Infant is aimed at people who prefer a calm and peaceful holiday.

L'Ametlla de Mar

L'Amella de Mar– the city and municipality is located in the southern part of the coast between the resort towns of Calafat and La Ampolla. This is a typical fishing village with a population of more than 7 thousand people. The local area is distinguished by a rocky coastline with picturesque bays; the length of the coastline in L’Amella de Mar is about 14 km.

L'Amella de Mar L'Amella de Mar L'Amella de Mar

Recently, tourism has been actively developing at the resort, and new residential complexes are being built. Apartments and apartments are sold on the first line and in the central part of the resort. Townhouses and villas are for sale in the surrounding area and further from the sea. L'Amella de Mar has a marina, hotels, restaurants, cafes, and a fish market. The town regularly hosts a gastronomic festival.

La Ampolla is an ancient small fishing town and municipality in the province of Tarragona, located in a picturesque area in the south of the Costa Dorada close to the natural reserve of the Ebro River Delta. This reserve is protected by UNESCO and is home to many animals and a huge variety of birds.

La Ampolla La Ampolla La Ampolla

La Ampolla is home to only about 3,600 people, but during the peak season the number of residents increases significantly. The local beaches at the resort have snow-white clean sand and a gentle entrance to the sea; there is a favorable microclimate for relaxation and living. La Ampolla is famous for its fishing throughout the region. This is a real paradise for gourmets of various seafood dishes. The local restaurants prepare culinary masterpieces using special recipes from fish, crabs, shrimp, and mussels.

Property in La Ampolla

The “Golden Coast” (this is how the name of this coast is translated from Spanish) is located between the mouth of the Ebro River and the municipality of Alcanar. Its length is about 200 kilometers. Costa Dorada got its name from its coastal area. The gently sloping and well-groomed beaches of the Costa Dorada are covered with golden sand. Due to the shallow depth, sea water here warms up faster than in other regions. This destination is often chosen by tourists who value a calm and comfortable holiday, couples with children, and people of advanced age.

Transport

The most popular route for tourists from the CIS is through Barcelona. The capital of Catalonia is located just 50 km from the Gold Coast. From Barcelona to the resorts of the Costa Dorada you can travel by train or bus. For example, trains to Salou leave almost every hour. Transport within the region itself is quite well developed. Trains, electric trains, buses, taxis and ferries are at your disposal. Thanks to good transport accessibility, even in a week on the Costa Dorada you can explore all the main cities.

Climatic and weather conditions

The climate of the Costa Dorada is mild and pleasant. Summers here are hot, but a pleasant sea breeze helps to endure high temperatures. The Costa Dorada is reliably protected from strong winds by the Pyrenees and Catalan mountain ranges. The tourist season lasts from April to the end of October. The beaches begin to function from the first days of June. By this time the water warms up to +19°C degrees. In summer, the air temperature fluctuates between +20°C and +30°C degrees. In the evenings the coast is enveloped in coolness. The temperature drops to +18°C. Life is in full swing in restaurants and bars. Winter is mild and short (not lower than -6°C). There are no frosts here at all. Thanks to the east wind Mistral, there are no clouds or fog in the sky in winter. In spring, the Costa Dorada has a special aroma, in which the smells of cypress and pine trees are intertwined. If your goal is not a lazy beach holiday, but sightseeing and nature reserves, we recommend coming to the Costa Dorada in the spring.

Popular hotels

Costa Dorada is considered the center of inexpensive tourism. Tourists who prefer a budget holiday come here. Not only high-rise resort hotels, but also comfortable campsites are located not far from the coast. Mostly Costa Dorada hotels have a 4* category.

Gran Palas Hotel Convention&SPA Wellness 5*

The only 5-star hotel on the Golden Coast is Gran Palas Hotel Convention&SPA Wellness. High-level service, new rooms (the hotel was built in 2009) and breathtakingly delicious food - this is how you can describe it in a few words. Other advantages of this hotel are a wonderful SPA center and a children's club. To get to the beach you only need to walk 100 meters.

Estival Park Salou 4*

Estival Park Salou 4* is very popular among all categories of tourists. There are hotel-type rooms and apartments on its territory. Total area – 110,000 m2. Three restaurants, 5 bars, 10 swimming pools, including one indoor heated, fitness club, tennis club, children's mini club.

Husa Imperial Tarraco 4*

Located in the heart of Tarragona, close to famous landmarks such as the ancient cathedral and the Roman Forum. The hotel has a beautiful garden, and tennis fans can practice their favorite sport on the well-equipped court. There is a casino in the hotel building.

Main cities of the Costa Dorada

Costa Dorada resorts are in great demand due to their excellent geographical location, climate, comfortable and clean beaches, developed infrastructure and relatively low housing prices compared to neighboring regions.

Salou

The most famous resort on the Golden Coast is Salou. Russian-speaking tourists were among the very first to discover it. Now the town is at the peak of its fame, so we advise you to book rooms in local hotels in advance. The audience in Salou is very diverse - couples with children, young people, middle-aged people. Attractions, water parks, nightclubs, entertainment venues - everyone will find an opportunity to relax at this Costa Dorada resort.

Tarragona

It is the second largest city in the Autonomous Community of Catalonia. During the Roman Empire it was the capital of Iberia. Therefore, Tarragona is called the most Roman city in Spain. Her appearance also reminds of this. For example, here you can see a statue of the Capitoline she-wolf who suckled Romulus and Remulus. The Roman amphitheater where gladiators fought thousands of years ago has been preserved.

La Pineda

La Pineda is a true pine paradise (“piña” translates to “pine”). The air here is completely special - the smell of the sea mixes with the healing aroma of coniferous trees. Not long ago, La Pineda received the status of a resort town for families with children. In this regard, on the beaches of La Pineda there are many children's clubs (where the child will be looked after for several hours) and playgrounds. Cafes and restaurants always have a special children's menu, and most hotels have equipment for heating baby food. The holiday season in this city lasts the whole year. When the air and water temperatures drop, a wave of tourists moves to the huge water center Aquum SPA&Club.

Cambrils

In Cambrils, in addition to the “hotel and tourist” part, the Old Town with its ancient cathedrals, castles and authentic markets is of great interest. Cambrils was once a small fishing village, but is now the gastronomic capital of the coast. There are more than 200 restaurants here.

Mont Blanc

We recommend visiting Mont Blanc for lovers of historical sights. The medieval town is located at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level in the Sierra de Prades mountains.

Koma-ruga

Koma-ruga is a place for a relaxing holiday. The nightlife here is not as vibrant and eventful as, for example, in Salou. But the water is very clean, and the bottom is flat and safe. There are not many historical attractions in Coma Ruga - only an ancient castle and Iberian defensive structures have been preserved. Tourists enjoy natural beauty, visit sea clubs, and relax in a thermal spring. The resort is not at all fashionable, but is conducive to family vacations.

Calafell

Calafell is another pleasant town on the coast. A paradise for shopping and a relaxing beach holiday. The city is also famous for its colorful festive events - carnivals, a procession of huge Spanish dolls, and a competition to build human towers (“castels”).

Historical landmarks

Thanks to the attractions, tourists willingly come to the Costa Dorada all year round, even if the weather is cold. The sights of the Costa Dorada date back to a wide range of eras and cultures.

It is known that Tarragona was once the residence of the emperors of Ancient Rome. The Roman amphitheater, which has survived to this day, dates back to the 2nd century AD. Scientists discovered and dug it up only in the middle of the last century. The capacity of the amphitheater is 13 thousand people. One arena occupies 2.5 square meters! Gladiators fought here, and the executions of the first Christians were also carried out. In 259, Bishop Fruktuos suffered martyrdom here. Next to the amphitheater there was a Roman circus built in the 1st century. It was the site of a popular entertainment in ancient Rome - chariot racing. However, practically nothing has survived from the circus.

Cathedral (Tarragona)

Perhaps the most beautiful building in Tarragona is the Cathedral of St. Mary, which took about 150 years to build. Its design combines Romanesque and Gothic styles. It is interesting that on the site of this cathedral there were at different times a Roman temple of Jupiter, a Visigothic church and an Arab mosque.

Pallau Novella

On the territory of the Spanish village of Pallau Novella there is now a functioning Buddhist monastery Sakya Tashi Ling. The courtyard of the main mansion is decorated in Gaudí style. The restroom is called the “throne” and is rightfully considered the most original room of the palace.

House with a false facade

One of the most popular attractions in Tarragona is the house with a false facade. If you look at the house from Plaça del Sedassos, the image appears three-dimensional. Colorful characters of the 19th century (Harlequin, captain, doctor and others) begin to come to life. This amazing optical illusion was created by artist Carlos Arola in 1995.

The main attraction of Reus is the four-story Gaudi Museum, opened in 2007. It is equipped with the latest technology. For example, on the second floor on the glass floor you will see a map of Barcelona with Gaudi's creations marked on it. In order to find out everything about a particular object, you need to move your foot next to it. A movie immediately starts on one of the wall screens. Biographical films about Gaudi are constantly shown in the mirror cinema. Film footage is shown either on the floor or on the ceiling. The chairs in the cinema hall rotate and are shaped like mushrooms. In conclusion, we note that many exhibits and models of this museum can be touched with your hands.

If you come to the resort of Salou, then be sure to take a walk along the boulevard of King Jaime I, who took the famous hike to Mallorca. The boulevard is decorated with the coats of arms of those nobles who traveled with the king. Fountains, architectural structures in the Art Nouveau style, a monument to Jaime I himself - this is what the most famous boulevard looks like today. There are also many clubs, restaurants and boutiques here.

Natural attractions

In 1986, where the Ebro River flows into the Mediterranean Sea received the status of a protected area. Hundreds of species of migratory birds nest here, including some rare species. Tourists can admire graceful flamingos and herons.

The founder of the park, Marquis Salvador Sama, decided to create this oasis after his trip to Cuba. Therefore, in the botanical garden today there are numerous plants of the Mediterranean and tropics, ranging from Brazilian yuccas to hundred-year-old oaks and lindens. A favorite place for visitors is the lake, which is home to turtles of all colors and sizes.

In Cambrils, be sure to check out the round pine tree on the city promenade. The huge tree is 100 years old. Against the background of neighboring palm trees, it looks very monumental. The crown has an unusual round shape. The tree is officially the property and property of the city.

Cuisine on the Costa Dorada

The cuisine on the Costa Dorada is Mediterranean, with a lot of fish and vegetables. The most common main dish is seafood paella. Often restaurants serve traditional Calafel rice or regular risotto. Sweets made from almonds and honey are also typical of the local cuisine. A little trick for those who would like to save on food: order “Del Dio” - this is an analogue of a set lunch, which consists of soup (usually gazpacho), a main course, dessert and a drink.

Russian diaspora

Russians are frequent guests on the Costa Dorada. And some of the tourists are gradually turning into permanent residents.
For example, in the province of Tarragona, of which the Costa Dorada is part, there have always been many immigrants from the CIS. At the end of 2015, 2,003 Russian citizens were officially registered here (1,298 women and 705 men). Most Russians live in the cities of Salou (22.8%), Cambrils (13.4%) and Tarragona (9.54%).
There are no “Russian quarters” not only in the Costa Dorada, but throughout Spain - our compatriots prefer to live dispersedly.
In 2007, the Association of Russian Culture named after Fyodor Dostoevsky was created in Tarragona. It aims not only to develop the Russian language and culture, but also to provide comprehensive assistance and information support to fellow citizens. There are no Russian schools on the Costa Dorada (the only Russian school in Spain operates in Madrid). However, the same Association of Russian Culture hosts language courses and all kinds of cultural events. Please enable JavaScript to view the

Did you know that Spain's coastline is almost 5,000 km long? The coast of the Spanish province of Tarragona, washed by the waves of the Balearic Sea, is known to tourists as the “Golden Coast”. This is how the name “Costa Dorada” is translated from Spanish, which the beaches of Tarragona received for the fine golden sand covering them.

The coast is protected from cold winds by mountains, the number of sunny days a year exceeds 200, the sea is shallow and calm - isn’t this an ideal place for a family holiday? And if you mention that this is where the famous Port Aventura amusement park is located, it will become clear why holidays with children in the Costa Dorada are so popular.

Costa Dorada on the map of Spain

Costa Dorada is a resort coast in eastern Spain, in the autonomous community of Catalonia, on the shores of the Balearic Sea. The northernmost city of this part of the coast is Vilanova i la Geltru, the southernmost is Alcanar. The Costa Dorada often includes neighboring Sitges and Castelldefels (the division of Spain into resort regions is somewhat arbitrary).

Tarragona, the administrative center of the province, is 100 km away from Barcelona. From Tarragona to Salou - 17 km, to La Pineda - 10 km, to Cambrils - 22 km, to Sitges - 70 km.

Tourists will learn about where the Costa Dorada is located in connection with a visit to the largest amusement park in Spain, Port Aventura. But Tarragona also has more ancient attractions, for example, a Roman amphitheater and a circus. In general, the holiday program on the Gold Coast develops by itself.

Vacation with children

What's special about the Costa Dorada? It seems like nothing: well-kept Spanish beaches, comfortable hotels, mild climate, delicious cuisine. And yet, a holiday in the Costa Dorada has a certain zest - if you describe it, you will get a rather long text, but you can feel the special atmosphere of the Gold Coast in an instant.

The peak tourist season on the Costa Dorada is during the hot summer months, although thanks to the mild winter you can relax on the coast all year round with 300 days of sunshine. The water temperature in summer stays around +26 °C, in winter it does not drop below +10 °C, the swimming season lasts from May to October. The most active nightlife is observed in Salou; Altafulla, Torredembarra and Calafell are optimal for a quiet family holiday.

Costa Dorada

Geographical position of the Costa Dorada

The southern border of the Costa Dorada is the town of Alcanar, the northern border is Cunit, located just 60 km from Barcelona, ​​the capital of Catalonia. From the central part of the peninsula, the coast is closed by the low ridges of the Catalan Mountains. Near Alcanar, this is the Moncia ridge, reminiscent of a sleeping dragon, 14.5 km long and up to 764 m high, with the largest peak La Torreta. The Sierra de Montsan system, with its natural park of the same name, is located west of Tarragona. In short, no more than an hour’s drive from any seaside town you can find excellent conditions for active recreation in the mountains.

The country's deepest river, the Ebro, flows into the sea at the southern borders of the Costa Dorada - this explains the abundance of coastal swamps with special fauna and the peculiarities of the region's cuisine, which includes dishes not only from sea fish, but also from freshwater fish.

Natural attractions of the region

In the Masia Blanca Marine Reserve, at the mouth of the river of the same name, tourists can observe the aquatic flora and fauna of three zones at once - coastal algal meadows, a bare sandy bottom with crabs and reefs full of fish. A three-hour tour of it, including snorkeling, will cost only 20 euros.

In addition to picturesque beaches, the Costa Dorada offers guests spectacular mountain scenery. A trip along the trails of the Sierra de Monsant Park with the opportunity to climb rocks or visit wineries costs 8 euros per day. The Llaberia mountain range is known for its challenging trails for mountain bikers and horseback riding and hiking. The Tiwissa and Vandielos mountains are linked by a 13-kilometer hiking trail, along which rock carvings are found. Among dozens of hiking trails, the longest one in the Prades Mountains is through the Roar Valley. To cover 70 km, you will have to stop overnight in local villages.

History of the Costa Dorada

The region began to be actively developed back in the days of the Romans. The oldest surviving buildings date back to the 1st-2nd centuries. n. e. True, for newcomers from the Apennines, the Gold Coast was not so much a vacation spot as a food supplier. Costa Dorada has retained its reputation as a producer of excellent wines, olive oil, and citrus fruits to this day. In the Middle Ages, Tarragona was valued as an important Mediterranean port; later, during the Renaissance, pirates realized this fact, threatening the city and surrounding areas with raids and turning neighboring Salou into their residence.

At the end of the 19th century, the province's transport infrastructure was improved, but the region's tourism boom began only in the second half of the 20th century. Before this, Spain, shaken by civil conflicts, had no time for rest. As a reminder of the Civil War, bunkers remain on the Costa Dorada. In peacetime, the Gold Coast was quickly developed by residents of the central provinces, who dreamed of a clean sea and a quiet family vacation. With the construction of new hotels, theme parks, and the reconstruction of picturesque fishing villages, foreigners also followed suit.

The main, but not the only advantage of the Costa Dorada is its beaches, many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag, a sign of ideal cleanliness and quality service. There has never been a developed industry with harmful emissions in the region; the Spaniards manage to maintain order in the ports, so there are simply no sources of pollution of water and coastal areas on the Costa Dorada. The main differences between the beaches lie in the types of outdoor activities that are offered to tourists. Access to all coastal areas is free, only the rental of sun loungers and umbrellas is paid - an average of 10 euros per day. The collection is not obligatory; if necessary, you can lie on the mat you brought with you.

The 7 km of El Vendrell beaches and the kilometer-long Playa Larga along the Rode de Bara promenade are popular. In the town of Cunit there are 2.5 km of sandy beaches, protected from erosion by a semicircular spit, and four artificial beach islands. Record holder for the number of beaches separated by rocky coves, Salou is the unofficial tourist capital of the Costa Dorada. Many of them are located next to the promenade with restaurants and sports grounds. The town of Calafell has three beaches, on one of them, Segura, you can rent boats and catamarans. In Cambrils, it is convenient to ride along the sea along equipped paths on bicycles and roller skates, which are rented here. The nudist beach of El Torn, surrounded by forest, is located near the town of Hospitalet del Infant.

Amusement parks on the Gold Coast

In the Costa Dorada region there are three amusement parks open for tourists - Port Aventura, Aquopolis and Aqualeon. While the first enjoys European fame as the largest year-round park on the continent with hotels and campsites, restaurants, water and land attractions, and concert programs, the others prefer a narrow specialization and operate only in the high season.

Aquopolis in La Pineda represents a popular European network of water parks and dolphinariums. The park, open from May to October, has 19 slides, and after the show in the dolphinarium you can swim with sea lions. A comprehensive ticket costs about 30 euros, visiting a performance costs 8 euros. "Aqualeon" in Albinyan for 10-12 euros offers guests a water park with 8 attractions and a safari on a double-decker bus, along the route of which lions, tigers, elephants, jaguars, rhinoceroses and bears roam freely.

PortAventura Park

The Port Aventura amusement park is located in Salou on the Costa Dorada and ranks 6th in popularity among theme parks in Europe. The complex was conceived as a park with 42 attractions, representing different regions of the world - the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico, the Wild West and the fabulous Sesame. Each zone has its own attractions, performances, souvenir shops and cafes with national cuisine. In the Mediterranean, nightly parades and fireworks displays take place during the high season. During the day in Polynesia, performers dressed in Hawaiian costumes address the island gods in a hot dance. A Chinese magician masterfully manipulates giant soap bubbles, a cancan is danced in a saloon in the Wild West, and in Mexico archaeologists are exploring an ancient temple with fiery surprises. Popular attractions include a catapult, an active volcano, a Mayan labyrinth, and a terrifying roller coaster. For guests who prefer a less extreme holiday, there are walks on the water on Chinese boats and a trip on an American train. Safe children's play areas are equipped for the youngest visitors.

In the Karibe water park, guests will find 17 water attractions for every taste: a pool with waves for surfers, Bahama Beach - a beach with sun loungers for the lazy, a children's area under the roof with water pistols, an airplane and pools with balls. The twisting slide “Mambo Limbo”, 12 m high, is gentle enough that it is not scary for children over 110 cm tall. Much more extreme is the 15-meter “Typhon” with almost vertical sections. Descending down the Torrent is reminiscent of rafting down a mountain river. You can relax a little by swimming under the waterfalls on inflatable rings and mattresses along the 1.5-kilometer Rio Loco.

Waterpark "Karibe"

Just recently, the Ferrari Park opened in Port Aventura, telling everything about the life of the brand’s founder, Enzo Anselmo Ferrari. As expected, all attractions - simulators for children and adults, racing tracks, pit stops, gondolas with free-fall elements - are designed in red.

One day at the amusement park costs 49 euros for regular visitors and 41 euros for beneficiaries, which include children 4-10 years old and guests over 60 years old. The longer you plan to vacation, the lower the costs. A night ticket generally costs 25 and 22 euros, respectively. A holiday in Ferrari Park costs 20 and 16 euros per day. The most profitable ticket is a comprehensive ticket to the main park, Ferrari and Caribe for 3 days: such a visit costs 85 and 70 euros. Those staying in a hotel on the territory of Port Aventura get free access to the main attractions without time restrictions and a one-time visit to Ferrari, in addition, they receive a discount in the water park.

Architectural sights of the Costa Dorada

Although the region does not have the works of world-famous architects, it has preserved many interesting examples of buildings from the Roman era, the Middle Ages, and Baroque. In Cambrils you can see the Vilafortuny Castle; in Calafell, a castle from the 11th century has been partially restored. There is also a monument to a fisherman here - a stocky barefoot man with a net on his shoulder, peering into the sea. Another interesting sculpture of the Costa Dorada is in Altafulla, where in the right corner between two houses there is an eight-tier acrobatic pyramid, at the base of which there are a dozen athletic people, and at the top – a thin teenager.

A 38-meter record-breaking lighthouse was built in Torredembarra, firstly, the tallest in Catalonia, and secondly, the last one erected in the twentieth century, since it was opened minute by minute at the end of the century. To attract tourists, the typical fishing village of Roc de Sant Gaeta has been restored near Roda de Bara. The name of the town of Hospitalet del Infant was given by the hospital built in 1346 by Prince Pere. Now it hosts painting and photography exhibitions. In the village of Vila Seca, near La Pineda, Roman settlements and a medieval tower have been preserved.

Lighthouse in Torredembarra

Architectural monuments of Ancient Rome

Traces of the Roman presence are especially noticeable in Tarragona - ancient Tarraco. Here you can see an aqueduct, a circus for 30,000 spectators, an amphitheater, and a forum included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The 1 km long fortress walls are the oldest Roman structure outside Italy. The Roman Praetorium was used until the 16th century as the residence of kings, and then, so that the strong building would not be empty, as a prison. Several Roman villas remain in the region, one of the most visited is “Muns” near Altafulla. Near Roda de Bara stands the 12-meter Arc de Triomphe, recognized as a national treasure.

Monuments of religious architecture

Among the Christian monuments of the Costa Daurada, the 12th century Tarragona Cathedral with elements of both Romanesque and Gothic styles stands out. The Church of Our Lady of the Rocks was built in Mont-roig del Camp at the end of the 13th century on the ruins of a medieval castle. The Romanesque foundation is preserved in the sacristy of the Church of St. Christopher in Cunit, substantially rebuilt in the 18th century.

The most famous Christian monument on the Costa Dorada outside the country is the Cistercian monastery of Poblet, founded by French monks in the 12th century and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. 8 kings of Aragon are buried there. The monastery functioned until the middle of the 19th century; in 1940 it was restored by Italian monks of the same order. Now about 30 brothers permanently live in it, so visiting hours are limited - from 10 to 17:25 with a break from 12:30 to 15 hours from Monday to Saturday; on holidays the facility closes earlier. A ticket costs 7.5 euros for independent travelers, 10 euros for those who want to listen to a guide, and for 24 euros you can also have lunch at the monastery. There is a bus service from Tarragona to Poblet three times a day.

Museums of the region

The main museums of the Costa Dorada are concentrated in Tarragona. The most interesting collection of finds from the Roman period is kept in the National Archaeological Museum, founded in the middle of the 19th century. The Paleo-Christian necropolis is also under his control. All Roman buildings are part of the Tarragona History Museum. The port museum tells about the history of fishing, the old lighthouse tells about signal systems. Located in Calafell, the house-museum of Carlos Barral, a prominent Catalan poet and politician, is considered a fisherman's hut, although the building looks like a nice old stone house. The collection of the Cambrils City Museum is distributed among five historical buildings, the main one being a former mill.

Subordinate to the monastery of Poblet is the royal palace of Martin I, famous mainly for the fact that he died of laughter. One of the most spectacular civil buildings in the country houses ceramics, silver, and stucco architectural elements. The palace is decorated with gargoyles - actually portraits of prominent statesmen.

The Joan Miró Center is opened in Mont-roig del Camp in the building of the Old Church. The world-famous Catalan artist lived here in his youth, when the now popular tourist spot was surrounded by wetlands with no hint of civilized beaches.

In Reus, on the Market Square, there is the center of Gaudi - another Catalan celebrity, a brilliant architect. In El Vendrell there is a Deu Museum, named after the collector who left valuable paintings, ceramics, and objects of religious art to the city.

Active holidays on the Gold Coast

Sports center of the Costa Dorada - Salou. The Lumine Golf Club in the outskirts of the city has 3 courses covering 170 hectares. A rally is taking place in Salou, football fields, tennis courts, and swimming pools are being built. Sailing competitions are scheduled for 2018 as part of the Mediterranean Games. Half an hour's drive from Calafell, on the edge of a pine forest, is the Graiera Golf Club with two courses.

Golf courses near Tarragona

Diving on the Costa Dorada is unique in that divers look not so much at marine life, although there are plenty of them on the reefs, but at sunken ships from different eras and military equipment from the Second World War. In the Underwater Park of Tarragona, an artificial reef was formed from sunken ships, and to attract tourists, the 65-meter vessel Dragonera had to be sunk to the bottom.

Surfers on the Costa Dorada are mostly beginners: small waves due to weak winds are optimal for beginners. The most popular surf school is near the port of Tarragona. But the most experienced professionals come here for fishing. All local residents fish, and special calendars are regularly issued for them. A permit is required to fish, so tourists are better off seeking help from specialized companies - going out to sea on your own can result in a fine.

Holidays Costa Dorada

As befits a Catholic region, every city or village of the Costa Dorada celebrates the days of its patron saints and general church holidays on a grand scale. During this time, processions with religious symbols and festive carnivals are obligatory. A secular carnival takes place in February in Tarragona, and here in May, at “Living Tarraco”, nostalgia for the Roman past is indulged in - crowds in togas roam the streets. The patroness of the capital, Saint Thecla, is honored in September with a long carnival. The Festival of Magic, also known as a magic competition, takes place in mid-March in La Pineda. In July, citizens and guests participate in a fireworks competition. In Hospitalet del Infante, a large festival in honor of Saint Roch takes place in mid-August.

There is a real culinary cult in Tarragona. Tourists can not only have a great lunch, but also visit specialized museums where they will be told how local rum, wine or olive oil is produced. The most famous of them is the Agricultural Museum of Cambrils in a former wine cellar. A significant part of the holidays on the Costa Dorada is related to food. In Valls, at the end of January, a calciotada is organized in honor of the leek; in Reus, in June, a wine fair is held; at the same time, the municipality of Mont-roig del Camp celebrates the days of the octopus. September is the time for local agricultural fairs with tastings in every village.

Coastal restaurant

In the restaurants of the Costa Dorada, which usually open in the afternoon, you should try dishes of meat and river and sea fish, flavored with herbs, garlic and spices, and local wines. Each city has its own wine cellar with inexpensive products of excellent quality. It is better to go shopping to Tarragona and Reus. The latter cannot boast of architecture or history, but it houses several hundred boutiques. Souvenirs, exotic sweets, summer clothes and handicrafts are sold in Port Aventura Park.

Where to stay

Tourism is the main source of income for the Costa Dorada, so in addition to numerous hotels, it is easy to find private apartments at reasonable prices due to high competition. In recent years, offers in the Port Aventura park have been in greatest demand. A room in the American-style Gold River hotel costs from 73 euros per night, in Caribe next to the water park - from 69 euros. The Port Aventura hotel in the style of an expensive fishing village will cost 76 euros per night, the Mexican El Paso will ask for 99 euros, the Caravaning campsite will cost 105 euros. In addition to the listed 4-star hotels, the 5-star Mansión de Lucy in the style of the American Wild West has recently opened.

How to get there

Foreign tourists arrive on the Costa Dorada mainly through Barcelona International Airport. The airport in Reus, although it has international status, is intended mainly for charters. From the capital of Catalonia to the coastal cities: Tarragona, Cambrils, Salou, La Pineda - buses cost 13-17 euros per trip and trains. Cruise ships call at the port of Tarragona.