Amanda PhillipsCosta Daurada means Golden Coast in Spanish and it’s not hard to imagine why this lovely stretch of land in southern Spain managed to obtain such an attractive name. Stretching for 81km along the Mediterranean coast, this area is adorned with butterscotch-sands and Blue Flag beaches. But another reason why it has become so popular with British families, couples and friends seeking some sun is its plethora of resorts. We’ve rounded up six of the towns most popular with holidaymakers to help you make up your mind up about which one is right for you!
Salou
Salou has been a popular holiday hotspot for years, and for good reason. Aside from the beautiful stretch of coast line that families flock to in the summer, it’s also home to Spain’s largest theme park, PortAventura along with the newly opened FerrariLand and the Caribe Aquatic Park.
Tarragona
Tarragona is the cultural capital Catalonia and everywhere you look you’ll spot reminders of its fascinating past. The most poignant and eye-catching of all is definitely the Roman amphitheatre where gladiators battled it out in the 2nd century.
Reus
If you’re looking for sun, but consider yourself more of city-break person rather than a beach bum – then consider the city of Reus. It’s a perfect blend of incredible architecture, history, culture, shopping and cosmopolitan living. Plus, the beach is still only a 15-20 minute drive away and there’as regular buses to Salou, Tarragona, Barcelona, Valls and Cambrils.
Calafell
Calafell is another Costa Daurada gem that combines beach with history. Set around a medieval castle dating back 2,500 years and the Romanesque church of Santa Creu from the 11th century, the town is a great mix of sandy beaches, great food, and culture with plenty of activities to keep holidaymakers happy. Remember to pop by the old fishing neighbourhood of La Platja, which is now a bustling collection of restaurants and bars and the perfect place to spend an evening.
Cambrils
Kick off your shoes, and slip on your sandals in this traditional Spanish fishing village turned holiday resort. It’s a polished place with upmarket hotels that still retains its own-town feel and is the perfect blend of Blue Flag beaches, Michelin-starred restaurants and relaxed nightlife. It’s also only an hour’s drive away from Barcelona.
La Pineda
La Pineda is the quieter sister of near-by Salou and is the perfect choice for families who want a laid-back atmosphere with easy-access to livelier activities. As mentioned, Salou is within a short drive but also within an accessible radius is PortAventura theme park and an hour is away is the metropolitan hub of Barcelona. Within La Pineda itself, however, you’ll also find a collection of powdery beaches and water sports, as well as tapas bars, pubs and restaurants.
