The Mediterranean that bathes the province of Tarragona, in the south of Catalonia, offers 216 kilometres of coastline for all tastes.
Beaches and coves where you can enjoy the calm waters, cities brimming with nightlife, fishing villages scattered along the coast for miles, golfing options, nautical activities and sports for the whole family... and all with pleasant temperatures all year round.
A complete paradise by the sea
The sea sets the pace of life on the Costa Dorada. Here you will find fishing villages like Altafulla or Torredembarra, which are perfect for resting and relaxing. More active options can be found alongside them, in the tourist resorts where leisure revolves around the beach. You’ll have to stop off in Salou, Cambrils or El Vendrell along your route if you're interested in experiencing the nightlife on the coast of Tarragona.
One thing’s for sure, everything will revolve around the Mediterranean Sea, allowing you to enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities. Windsurfing, paddleboarding and boat trips along the Costa Dorada are just some of the attractions you will find here. A trip to the Port Aventura theme park is perfect if you’re looking for something for the whole family.
If you are seeking a more cultural experience, be sure to stop off in Tarragona. Here lie the remains of the Roman city of Tarraco, including the amphitheatre or the Roman circus, which can be found alongside the city’s Gothic-style cathedral. In contrast, it passes through Reus, the other large city in the province and the birthplace of the architect Antoni Gaudí. Here you will be able to gain first-hand knowledge about the life of this genius and learn more about modernism in the Gaudí Centre.Experience the breathtaking sunsets at the Ebro Delta, a natural park made up of rice fields and wetlands, creating a unique landscape where water once again is the main feature.
History, tradition and good food
The Costa Dorada has more attractions apart from its beaches. Cultural getaways to the inland areas, such as the village of Montblanc, await you. This charming medieval village is home to Poblet monastery, an architectural jewel that was also the pantheon of several kings of Aragon, and which will fascinate anyone interested in history.
Not far from here, you can admire another one of Catalonia’s best-known traditions: the castells (castles in Catalan). These are impressive towers several metres tall which are formed by people. It is an exercise of coordination and concentration, and you can see them throughout the region, especially in the village of Valls. If you come for the Sant Joan festivities (23 June), don’t forget to take a snapshot of this unique moment.
Any trip to the Costa Dorada would be incomplete without a trip to the kitchen. The typical dishes include rossejat (a recipe that can be made with rice or noodles), many types of fish and local seafood (whether in stews or grilled), and the popular calçotadas. All this paired with the wines that the province of Tarragona offers, with up to six different denominations of origin, leaving you with an unforgettable taste in your mouth.
