Costa Dorada

Of all the Mediterranean seaside resorts Costa Dorada offers its visitors something over and above the average. A seemingly endless coastline where shimmering turquoise waters meet exceptionally fine sands is really just the tip of the iceberg.

If you venture further inland you will find amazing scenery and charming little villages, each showcasing captivating architecture. The ‘Golden Coast’ as the name translates, is choke-full of things to do and sites to see, small wonder it ranks among Spain’s most popular holiday destinations.

Sightseeing and activities

Most of the beaches on this part of Catalonia provide ideal grounds for leisurely strolls, sunbathing and swimming; the essentials of any coastal vacation. The sands are just what your kids need to sharpen their castle-building skills as well.

Your kids are also guaranteed to have the time of their lives at the nearby Universal Studios Port Aventura which offers them plenty of rides and shows. They will be equally thrilled with the numerous water rides at La Pineda.

And when the day is done and you want to unwind with a nice meal and your drink of choice in ambient surroundings, you will have many high quality establishments to choose from. There you will have your favourite variety of seafood prepared by seasoned chefs. Those looking for a place to shake a leg will find the Barcelona nightclubs perfect for the occasion.

Golfing enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that they can find their favourite 18 holes while enjoying the holiday of a lifetime in Costa Dorada. What can be more enjoyable than traversing a rich green course under the wonderful Mediterranean weather? If this sounds heavenly, then you must plan a visit to Panoramica Golf Course. This baby was designed by the renowned Bernhard Langer and sports such features as four sets of forward tees and brilliant practice facilities.

The Bonmont Golf Course is another course worth checking out that is suitable for both learners and seasoned pros. Be warned however that you will be distracted by unbelievable views of the coast as you play.

Leaving the Catalonian coast without journeying inland is missing out on a wealth of touristic delights. For starters there is the Ebro Delta that encompasses many unique geological features including sand dunes, fresh and salt water lakes, riverbank woods and fluvial islands within its 320 square kilometres. It really is a goldmine for nature lovers, rich in flora and fauna.

There are over 300 bird species that have made this natural park their home, including the elegant flamingo which resides on the more secluded lagoons. You can traverse this engrossing landscape by ferry, by mountain bike or on foot. After you’ve had your fill of the jungle, you can proceed to the towns of the towns Tarragona and Reus where you can soak up on Catalan history and culture. Sites of interest include the ruins of Tarragona, the Jewish quarter in Reus and the several archaeological museums in this town.

If you’re looking for an excuse to let your hair down and party the night away, then you need to pencil in a visit to the popular Sitges resort. You are more likely than not to find one celebration or the other happening here as cultural events and festivals are the order of the day. Sitges plays host to an extremely enjoyable carnival as well as the Corpus Christi, the International Festival of Fantastic and Horror Cinema.