Holidays on the Costa Dorada

Almost the entire coastline of Spain is essentially one huge resort, divided into several zones with distinct features and levels of tourist infrastructure. One such zone is the famous Costa Dorada resort region, which is practically perfect in every respect. What makes it so ideal? Almost any traveler, regardless of the purpose of their trip, will be able to find something of their own here, be it a beach holiday, active sports, enjoying the cultural wealth of ancient Spanish cities, or even seeking out new gastronomic experiences :)

What You Need to Know About Costa Dorada

Costa Dorada is, first and foremost, a resort region that includes several stunning towns and small settlements with beautifully preserved medieval architecture, gently sloping sandy beaches, and well-developed infrastructure.

The main towns of the region are Tarragona, La Pineda, Salou and Cambrils. They differ significantly from each other in atmosphere and leisure options, so there is no chance of getting bored on the Costa Dorada. For example, Tarragona is home to many landmarks and architectural monuments, Salou has numerous clubs and bars, and Cambrils is rightly considered the main gastronomic Mecca of Catalonia.

Where Costa Dorada Is Located

The Costa Dorada region is located in the northeastern part of Spain, on the coast of the Balearic Sea, which is part of the Mediterranean. Costa Dorada lies between Valencia and Barcelona. The easiest way to get here is via Barcelona Airport, from which regular buses run to the towns of Costa Dorada at very modest prices.

When It’s Best to Go to Costa Dorada

The tourist season on Costa Dorada lasts from April through October inclusive. During this period, the air temperature generally does not rise above 29 °C, which makes the local resorts almost ideal for those who do not tolerate heat well or are looking for a safe place to holiday with children. It is also worth visiting Costa Dorada during the Christmas holidays, when carnivals, street festivities and sales take place. In winter the temperature is also quite comfortable, albeit not for swimming :)

What to Do on Costa Dorada

Depending on the town you choose (or your willingness to move around within the region), Costa Dorada can offer you many options for interesting leisure activities. In particular, here you can:

• Enjoy a beach holiday.
• Go diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Balearic Sea.
• Have fun at the PortAventura amusement park.
• Admire the architectural beauty of Tarragona.
• Set off in search of gastronomic delights in Cambrils.
• Party in the local nightclubs (the best place for this is Salou).
• Visit the largest summer festival in the region — Las Nits Dauradas, which takes place in Salou in August.
• Walk along the Cami de Ronda route and enjoy stunning coastal views.
• Take part in the activities of the Jaume I themed medieval festival, which is held every September in Salou.
• Go rock climbing in Garraf Park.
• Play golf at the local golf clubs, which are considered among the best not only in Spain, but in all of Europe.
• Go shopping.

Which Hotel to Choose on Costa Dorada

• Hotel Gran Claustre 4* (Altafulla)
  Hotel Gran Claustre is located in the center of Altafulla, not far from Tarragona. Guests of the hotel can enjoy an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace with a stunning view of the city center, a spa center with thermal treatments and a hot tub, and the Les Bruixes d'en Buriac restaurant, which serves dishes made from local produce and offers an extensive wine list.
• Hotel Terra Dominicata 5* (Tarragona)
  The five-star Terra Dominicata has everything necessary to provide its guests with maximum relaxation for body and soul. Among the hotel’s key features are a chic interior, a wonderful location at the foot of wooded hills, an outdoor swimming pool, and an exquisite restaurant with an extensive wine list.
• PortAventura® Hotel Gold River 4* (Tarragona)
  Located at one of Spain’s most famous theme parks, PortAventura Hotel Gold River is designed in the style of the Wild West. Guests of the hotel can enjoy unlimited access to the amusement park, a wide range of treatments at the spa centers of the PortAventura and Caribe hotels, work out in the hotel’s fitness club, and visit the themed bars and restaurants New Texas and Opera House.
• Hotel Mas La Boella 4* (La Canonja)
  Hotel Mas La Boella boasts a location in one of the most picturesque spots in the region — in a historic country estate surrounded by olive groves and fruit orchards. The hotel grounds feature an outdoor pool, a private library, a luxurious restaurant and a business center. For gourmets, the hotel regularly organizes visits to the wine cellars with tastings of local wines, olives and cheeses.
• Alenti Sitges Hotel & Restaurant 4* (Sitges)
  The stylish and cozy boutique hotel Alenti Sitges is located right in the center of Sitges. It is perfect both for fans of walking along old streets or exploring local venues, and for those who are counting on a comfortable beach holiday.

Where to Eat Well on Costa Dorada

The majority of Costa Dorada’s most interesting restaurants are concentrated in Cambrils, which in just a few years has managed to earn a reputation as the region’s gastronomic Mecca. So if you are ready to travel a bit within the region in the name of unforgettable culinary experiences, head there. Speaking of dining on Costa Dorada in general, we can highlight several main types of establishments:

• Small restaurants located directly in the towns, away from the beaches. Most of the dishes they offer are Spanish or international cuisine.
• Michelin-starred restaurants, the majority of which are in Cambrils.
• Tapas bars with local alcohol and all kinds of snacks.
• Waterfront restaurants in Cambrils, where they serve assortments of the freshest seafood at very reasonable prices.
• Shops and stalls selling local seafood, wines and cheeses.
• Bars and snack bars on the beaches, where you can grab a cocktail or a light bite.

What to Combine a Trip to Costa Dorada With

Costa Dorada is located in close proximity to many of Spain’s popular resorts. Given this, you don’t have to limit your travel itinerary to just one region when you can also visit the following places:

• Barcelona, where iconic attractions, countless venues, great shopping locations, and transport connections to anywhere in Europe are concentrated :)
• Valencia, enchanting with its unique blend of rich medieval heritage and ultra-modern urban developments.
• The Balearic Islands, famous for their beaches and clubs, which welcome the world’s best DJs all year round.