Open the left menu Costa Dorada. Costa Dorada resorts and the best beaches of the golden coast for family holidays in spain

Spain is a country that is lucky both with the climate and with the presence of the sea. In fact, except for the west of the extreme northeast, all its borders pass through water areas. This is the Bay of Biscay of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. To understand their many coasts, the Spaniards came up with names for them. Along Bay of Biscay Verde stretches - the green coast. But tourists who dream of warming up the bones swim in a calm and warm water, attract more beaches Mediterranean. There are a lot of coasts from the Pyrenees to the Strait of Gibraltar. Blanca and Azahar (White and Sugar Coasts) are famous in the south of Spain. But Catalan resorts are considered more budgetary. They are called Maresme, Costa Brava and Costa Dorada. We will try to compare them with each other in this article. Many tourists do not know which of the three Catalan coasts to choose. And others think that it does not matter - because in Spain everything is good. Meanwhile, these coasts are very different.

Spain: on the map

In the south of the Pyrenees, near mediterranean sea, located a large autonomous province - Catalonia. Perhaps it will soon become an independent republic, who knows? But now we are interested in the coast of Catalonia. There are only three of them. In the middle, around the capital of the region, the beautiful city of Barcelona, ​​there is the Sea Coast (Maresme). To the north of Barcelona, ​​it stretches to the resort of Blanes. By the way, a railway along the coast has also been laid to this city. Further to the north, rocks begin - the spurs of the Pyrenees. Therefore, along the Coast of the Brave, or, as it is otherwise called - the Rocks of the Bold, namely between the resorts, only buses run. The Maresme also stretches south of Barcelona. The coast ends at the village of Kunit. To the south of it, to the very border of Catalonia with Valencia, Dorada stretches. The name is translated as the Golden Coast. In the Costa Brava, the main city is Girona, and the most promoted resort is Blanes. The capital of the Gold Coast is Tarragona. And the main resort is Salou.

Costa Brava or Costa Dorada - which is better?

Let's say right away: there is no single answer to this question. After all, many people interpret rest in different ways. Give some spacious sandy beaches, others - rocks and secluded coves. Someone loves silence and tranquility, and someone loves the fun and drive of youth resorts. Do not throw off the scales in the dilemma "Costa Brava or Costa Dorada: which is better?" and climate indicators. This is especially true if you are going to Catalonia at the beginning or at the end tourist season. Good vacation unthinkable without a rich excursion program. Where are more attractions - on the Coast of the Brave or Dorada? If you are traveling with children, you are interested in the safety of their bathing. And, finally, the question of the price of all pleasure also remains important. Therefore, we will compare both coasts according to different parameters. And it's up to you to decide where to go.

Nature

For lovers of beauty, the question of which is better - the Costa Brava or the Costa Dorada, is not worth it. Of course, the wild and rocky Coast of the Brave completely overshadows its southern competitor in magnificent landscapes. The relief of the Costa Brava is predominantly hilly. Rocks and cliffs break into the sea. They are covered with beautiful pine forests. The relief of the Costa Dorada is flat. It is drier here and there is less greenery here. On the other hand, lovers of wandering for kilometers along the edge of the sea are more suitable gold coast. In the Costa Brava, you will have to climb up, then to go down to the "cala" - the bay. But the landscapes on this coast are just asking for the artist's canvas. Towers (or their ruins) rise on the tops of the coastal cliffs. And this adds additional charm to the beauties of nature.

Climate

If you want to get to a resort where it is guaranteed to be hot and the entire vacation will be rainless, look at the map of Catalonia. So where is it better - to the Costa Brava or the Costa Dorada? The very geographical location of the first coast suggests that the climate is cooler there. It will appeal to those who do not tolerate heat well. Even in the summer months, a fresh breeze blows there. The deep sea warms up only by June. And the season ends at the end of September. The Costa Dorada is outdoing its northern competitor on the issue of climate. This is the warmest coast of Catalonia. The mountains are barely visible in the distance, but they reliably protect the resorts of the Costa Dorada from cold winds. You can fully sunbathe and swim here from the end of March to the beginning of November. But during the summer months it is very hot there. The feeling of heat is enhanced by the complete absence of wind. Small children and people suffering from cardiovascular diseases will not be comfortable here in the summer.

Beaches

The Costa Dorada is called the Golden Coast because mica is found in its sand. You wave your foot along the bottom, and sparkles rise into the water. Just like golden scales! In the matter of a beach holiday, it is also difficult to please everyone, and it is impossible to say unequivocally which is better - the Costa Brava or the Costa Dorada. You definitely can’t jump into the water from the rocks on the Gold Coast. Diving there is not very interesting. In a sea without waves, surfing becomes meaningless. For all this you need to go to the Costa Brava. But on the Gold Coast there is a smooth entry into the sea. No stones, cliffs and other troubles. The sand is fine, golden, as if created by nature especially for sculpting castles. Costa Dorada - perfect place for holidays with children. And bad swimmers will like it there too. The Costa Brava demands courage. The sea is often rough there. On the other hand, you can always find a bay that is turned so that it will be completely calm when there is a storm on other beaches. The sand on the Costa Brava is coarse, actually ground pebbles. You won't be able to make something out of it. But this sand does not stick to the body.

Excursions and entertainment

Whether you go to the Costa Brava or the Costa Dorada, your holiday will be full of experiences. There are plenty of interesting places on both coasts. But to go to Catalonia and not visit Barcelona is an unforgivable mistake. Only here it is best to get to the capital from the Costa Brava. Especially if you live near Blanes, in resorts like Lloret del Mar or Tossa. Buses run very often to Blanes, and from there the train will take you to Barcelona in less than an hour (and 6.15 euros). From the Costa Dorada to get to the capital will be, if not more difficult, then definitely longer and more expensive. The one way trip will take two hours. But at the side of vacationers on the Costa Dorda there is a beautiful and ancient city Tarragona. And from entertainment - the famous amusement park Aventur near Salou.

Prices

There is an opinion that the main thing that distinguishes the Costa Brava from the Costa Dorada is the budget of the rest. But it is not so. Just on the Costa Brava there is a very large selection of hotels. This coast is perceived by tourists from Western Europe as a continuation Therefore, there are many five-star hotels and luxury villas for rent. However, there are also quite enough budget hotels and even hostels. You can rent inexpensive housing in the private sector or stay at a campsite. Prices for other services depend on the "hype" of the resort. But to an even greater extent - on whether it is high season or low. If you have chosen to visit Catalonia in late September or early October, then you will pay less for the same services on the Costa Brava than on the Gold Coast. Vacationers actually have another advantage: they can travel cheaply to Andorra, where duty-free shopping makes for a great shopping experience.

conclusions

Of course, it is up to you to decide where it is better - on the Costa Brava or the Costa Dorada. We can only summarize all of the above. Costa Brava is more suitable for young people. There is a mountainous terrain, often turbulent sea, a cooler climate. But there is a lot of entertainment, and the city of Lloret del Mar is called a youth resort. Costa Dorada is more suitable for the elderly or families with children. The gentle sea has a smoothly descending bottom, and you can sculpt Easter cakes and castles from the sand. The relief here is flat and you won’t have a chance to go down and climb the stairs to the beach. But young people here may seem boring. Apart from the Aventur Park, there are no special attractions in Salou.

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The name Costa Dorada is well known to tourists from all over Europe. This section of the Catalan coast is called golden for a reason - it has become famous for its endless sandy beaches, ideal for families with children. The Costa Dorada receives almost 4 million visitors annually and offers them a lot of entertainment, historical sights and excellent restaurants.

The climate of the Costa Dorada

The mountains that surround the coast of the Costa Dorada reliably protect it from winds and cyclones. Therefore, the climate here is warmer than in the nearest resorts, and in summer the sea warms up faster. June-September is considered the best time for rest - the air is on average warmed up to + 28 ° С, water - up to + 24 ° С.

Costa Dorada Map

Holidays in the Costa Dorada

First of all, it is worth going to the Costa Dorada for a beach holiday. Its coastline stretches for a total of 220 km, and most of it is occupied by golden sand beaches. List best beaches infinitely possible: Tamarite With transparent sea And pine forest nearby, Cala Fonda- a secluded sandy bay, Playa Larga- a long stretch of sand ryumar- it guarantees rest almost in the protected part of the Costa Dorada.

The cleanest beaches have become the key to the popularity of the Costa Dorada among tourists with children. But another factor that influenced this is the mass of family entertainment. Water parks, show programs and a large Port Aventura park.

Costa Dorada is a whole scattering of world-famous resorts. The most famous is Salou where life does not stop until October. Salou will appeal to young people, lovers of shopping and gastronomic adventures.

Something like him Sitges, which is called the youth capital of the Costa Dorada and the Catalan St. Tropez. For those who want to combine a beach holiday with an excursion, it is better to stay in Tarragona. This Cultural Center Costa Dorada with fascinating festivals, historical heritage and golden beaches. And for family vacation two calm resorts are suitable - La Pineda And Cambrils.

Attractions of the Costa Dorada

Interesting sights are scattered throughout the Costa Dorada. But most of it is Tarragona- a city-museum that strikes the imagination with its ancient atmosphere. His decoration was Cathedral 12th century built in several stages. This affected the diversity of architectural styles - such eclecticism became the highlight of the cathedral. Here you can see some of the oldest bells in Europe, impressive stained-glass windows, frescoes, several types of Romanesque and Gothic arches, as well as visit the museum. It houses artefacts unearthed during a recent extensive restoration.

Among the important monuments of Tarragona - roman amphitheater, from the height of which you can enjoy the panoramas of the sea. by the most impressive places to visit can be called Monastery of Santa Creus And Abbey of Poblet- amazing examples religious architecture, each of which holds many shrines.

The Costa Dorada is often chosen for the opportunity to visit the most striking attraction of this coast - PortAventura. The park is world famous and is in no way inferior to the famous Disneyland parks. PortAventura is divided thematically into several zones, including the zones "Mexico", "Mediterranean", "Wild West". The choice of attractions is, without exaggeration, huge: from exciting slides for adults to attractions for the little ones.

Not to be missed in Sitges Marisel Palace- a property previously owned by millionaire Charles Deering. In addition to luxurious halls, where receptions are often held, and beautiful decor elements, Marisel is interesting with a large collection of Deering. He left here a collection of paintings and statues, though most taken to the USA.

Shopping in the Costa Dorada

Going on vacation to the Costa Dorada, tourists are wondering about the place for the best shopping. Fortunately, the resorts of this coast delight not only with beaches - here you can have a good time shopping. Usually the choice falls on Salou, where on any main street there are dozens of shops with fashionable novelties. You can go to Tarragona, where, on a par with monobrand boutiques, they work shopping centers. The most famous is Parc Central. It presents H&M, Calzedonia, Zara, Desigual, Etam, Mango stores.

As a souvenir from the Costa Dorada, you can take original ceramics or jewelry. Products based on the sketches of Salvador Dali, a famous native of Catalonia, are especially valued. There are both expensive jewelry and affordable jewelry on sale. The Costa Dorada is known for its excellent wines and liqueurs, cheeses, jamon, and high-quality leather goods. From typical Catalan souvenirs, you can choose castanets or a figurine of a bull. And if you want to take away a truly unique thing, you should go to the antique markets - they are in almost every major resort town.

The best restaurants on the Costa Dorada

One of the advantages of the Costa Dorada - local gastronomy. And also - a lot of restaurants of international and Catalan cuisine, many of which are especially loved by vacationers. Restaurant worth a visit in Sitges Fragata located on the coast. The menu offers a wide range of fish dishes, wines, risottos and traditional Catalan desserts.

In Tarragona, according to tourists, the best restaurant is Arcs. It is located in the medieval quarter, and the halls of the institution are separated from each other by arches. Such an interior requires quality service, and this is what Arcs restaurant does best. The menu includes only fresh seafood, delicious desserts, meat dishes. The restaurant has a wine cellar.

In Salou, many establishments are tourist-oriented, but in such a variety you can still find restaurants with reasonable prices and quality service. Fans of traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine should visit the tavern El Trasto. Pizza, mussels, light salads and fish dishes are excellent here. And among fish restaurants resort stands out O Mar. In addition to fish, you should order paella and homemade wine.

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On resorts of the Costa Dorada everyone will find entertainment to their liking, because this region has its own rich historical heritage, magnificent nature, winemaking and culinary traditions, and leisure opportunities.

History buffs and connoisseurs should visit Tarragona where many ancient monuments have been preserved. On the way to the city you can see the Roman aqueduct. Also interesting buildings are the Roman Amphitheater and the Roman Circus, built in the 2nd century. The Cathedral of Santa Maria, built in the 12th century, belongs to the Middle Ages. This is the most big temple throughout Catalonia. interesting and central streets cities - New and Old Rambla. The spirit of modernity is already felt here, since there are many buildings in the Art Nouveau, Neoclassicism, and Baroque styles. You can also climb Mount Montserrat, where the monastery of the same name is located.

Active people who love fun, as well as families with children, can be advised to go to Salou. It is here that the Port Aventura amusement park is located, the second European amusement park after Disneyland in Paris and probably known all over the world. Port Aventura includes five zones: Mediterranean, Wild West, Mexico, China, Polynesia. There is also an area for children, Sesame, where the smallest visitors to the park will find entertainment.

Salou- an ancient city that arose in the 13th century, and located at a distance of 13 km from Tarragona. It is considered the main place where tourists come. Life is full of colors here. Jaime Street is home to the main hotels, shops, restaurants and bars.Modern entertainment complexes a large number of shops, outlets Catering, incendiary nightlife - all this you will find at every local resort. Magnificent sand and shallow water attract families with small children.

Not far from Salou is La Pineda - tourist centre with numerous hotels, boarding houses, campsites and well-developed infrastructure. In this place are located: a sports complex, the Pineda Drink entertainment center and a water amusement park. Pineda Drink is a huge network of small restaurants and cafes that are located right on the coast. In the water park, children will find a lot of exciting entertainment and attractions.

Small resort town of Cambrils one more of interesting places in the Costa Dorada. Initially, it was a small village that arose in the 12th century, and later a city grew on this site. Everything you need to relax is concentrated in the port area: a noisy embankment, hotels, a large number of restaurants and a seafood market. The main city attraction is Sama Park, which is located in the vicinity.

Sitges is on the Costa del Garaf.Sitges is a city of contradictions. Without losing its old charm, which was complemented by modernist works, Sitges has become a dynamic resort. Here you can have a great rest, as there is a huge selection of entertainment for every taste and budget. Life in this place does not stop for a moment.

Near Tortos, on a peninsula covered with sand, there is a natural park with an area of ​​​​320 square kilometers. In this place you can see more than 300 species of birds and 500 species of various plants, many river and sea inhabitants.Natural parks are also of great interest. Monsan mountain range. Here, nature itself has created an atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment of the most beautiful nature.

Cuisine of the Costa Dorada very diverse: they cook dishes from seafood, meat, vegetables, even snails. Various appetizers (tapas) as well as sauces are very popular. Catalonia is a wine region. The areas where wine is produced are located mainly in the south of Catalonia. The most famous product of Catalan winemaking is "cava" (cava) - a special foamy wine obtained by fermentation in the bottle. The world-famous wine-producing regions are Priorat and Penedès.

So, having arrived at holiday in Costa Dorada, everyone will find what he wants, because here all the conditions are created for this.

Photos

Costa Dorada FOR CHILDREN

Did you know that Spain's coastline is almost 5,000 km long? Coast Spanish province Tarragona, washed by the waves of the Balearic Sea, is known to tourists as the "Gold Coast". So 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 by mountains from cold winds, sunny days exceeds 200 per year, the sea is shallow and calm - isn't it an ideal place for a family holiday? And if you mention what exactly is here famous park entertainment "Port Aventura", it will become clear why holidays with children in the Costa Dorada are so popular.

Costa Dorada on the map of Spain

Costa Dorada - resort coast in the east of Spain, in the autonomous community of Catalonia, on the coast 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 somewhat conditional).

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 learn about where the Costa Dorada is located in connection with visiting the large park entertainment in Spain "PortAventura". But in Tarragona there are more ancient attractions, for example, the Roman amphitheater and the circus. In general, the program of recreation on the Golden Coast develops by itself.

Vacation with children

What is special about the Costa Dorada? It seems nothing: Spanish-style well-groomed beaches, comfortable hotels, mild climate, delicious cuisine. And yet, the rest in the Costa Dorada has a certain zest - if you describe it, you get a rather long text, but to feel special atmosphere The Golden Coast is possible in an instant.

The first thing tourists pay attention to is the weather. Here is the Costa Dorada better position than neighboring resorts . To the Costa Brava beach season the sea is short and cool, it can be too hot in the Costa Blanca, and on the beaches of Cambrils, Salou, La Pineda, pleasant heat is kept for half a year, and you can swim in the sea until the end of September.

The second is the atmosphere. The resorts of the Costa Dorada can hardly be called sleepy: in the high season, a pleasant revival reigns here. But this is not the noise of night discos, but the full-blooded joy of warm sea, from a delicious lunch, from the surrounding beauty. Here you can relax with baby, especially if you stay not in an advertised resort, but in a quiet town with good hotels.

An important reason to come to the Costa Dorada with children is the focus of resorts on family holidays. Cambrils and Salou have a certificate confirming such specialization, and the rest of the cities are simply trying to do everything to make it convenient to relax with a child there.

The third is entertainment. We have already mentioned the main amusement park in Spain (and we will remember more than once), but besides it, there are a lot of interesting things for children in the Costa Dorada. Each resort has its own set of trump cards, from water parks to museums of an unusual format.

How to get the most out of traveling to the Gold Coast? More about this.

When is the best time to go

The main holiday time in the Costa Dorada is May to September, in the warmest time. In May, the resorts are relatively empty, and in June the number of beachgoers is growing rapidly. If you are going to come to the Costa Dorada for the opening of the season, look for a hotel with a pool, because the sea warms up well only by July.

If you have the opportunity to postpone your vacation to the Costa Dorada until September, do so. At the beginning of autumn, the weather is wonderful at the resorts of the Gold Coast, and you don’t want to leave the warm sea. In addition, there is more and more free space on the beaches every day.

Although holiday season in Costa Dorada is curtailed already in September, the Port Aventura park continues to work. It works daily from the end of March to the end of October, in November and December it works on weekends, and then pleases with festive events from December 24 to January 7. After the holidays, the park closes until spring.

Bright events can also influence the choice of the time when it is better to go to the Costa Dorada cultural life. In mid-May, Tarragona turns into a Roman settlement of Tarraco for two weeks, and gladiators and legionnaires walk the streets. This takes place as part of the Tarraco Revived festival, dedicated to the history of the Roman Empire.

At the end of June, the “Night of San Juan” is celebrated in the province, the highlight of the program here is the construction of “human castles”. And in early July, an impressive fireworks competition is held.

Weather and climate

The Balearic Sea, which washes the shores of Tarragona, is part of the Mediterranean Sea, so the climate of the Costa Dorada is typically Mediterranean. It is a little hotter here than in the resorts of the Costa Brava, but a little cooler than in the Costa Blanca: the Gold Coast has a golden mean.

Summer heat is established in the Costa Dorada in May. At the beginning of the month, thermometers show +22°C, and by the arrival of the calendar summer, the temperature rises to +25-26°C. The sea is still cold in May, but with a baby in the Costa Dorada it is best to relax in the spring, when there is no heat.

In June, the air warms up to +26-27°C, and the hottest time is July-August, when the thermometers jump up to +30°C. At the same time, by night the temperature drops to + 19-22 ° С. If you are planning a vacation in the Costa Dorada for the second half of the summer, bring clothes for cool evenings on your trip.

September is considered the best holiday in the Costa Dorada with children. The summer heat is left behind, and you can spend much more time on the beach than in July or August. The air temperature drops to +27°С, and sea ​​water remains warm.

In September, there are several rainy days, but they do not spoil the mood of vacationers.

The beach season ends in October, when the temperature drops to +23-24°C. Rest with a child at this time can be devoted to excursions or a thorough study of all the attractions of the Port Aventura park: this Entertainment Center operates daily until late autumn.

From November to March, the Costa Dorada is cool but surprisingly sunny. The air temperature drops to + 14-16 ° C, while there is almost no rain. Already in April, the air warms up to +19°C, spring rains wash the shore: nature does a general cleaning before the new holiday season.

Sea water temperature

What is the most important thing in a beach resort? Sun (daily), air (fresh) and water (warm). If we are talking about the resorts of the Costa Dorada, then the sun and air are available at any time of the year, but the sea temperature that is pleasant for swimming is only in summer and early autumn.

In June, the sea near the Gold Coast only warms up to +22°C. By the beginning of July, the water temperature in the Costa Dorada is already + 24-25 ° С, and in August it reaches + 26 ° С.

In the first half of September, sea water maintains a temperature of +24°C. By October, the temperature drops to +22°C.

Nutrition

Do not be afraid that Costa Dorada hotels do not offer an all-inclusive meal plan. Arriving in Spain, you are unlikely to want to become attached to the hotel daily routine. On the way from the beach or after the tour, you can have lunch or dinner at any of the many restaurants.

In the province of Tarragona, Catalan cuisine is prepared, but since the surroundings of the Costa Dorada smoothly turn into autonomous community Valencia, the famous Valencian paella is also popular here.

If you rent an apartment or a room with a kitchen, fresh products from the shop and the market are at your disposal. There are large shopping centers only in Tarragona and Reus, and on small resorts there are mostly mini-markets.

Transport

Urban public transport in the Costa Dorada - buses in a large area of ​​​​Tarragona and tourist trains in other towns. Travel by city bus costs about 1.2 euros, by tourist train - 3-4 euros (the price of tickets for children is the same as for adults).

Intercity transport in the Costa Dorada - buses of several carrier companies and regional trains. Bus and railway routes link all the resorts of the province.

The fare starts from 2.50 euros. If you purchase a T-10 travel card that costs about 18 euros, then travel on buses and commuter trains will become cheaper. The timetable is available on the carriers' websites and on the RENFE website.

If you are planning an active excursion program in Tarragona, we recommend purchasing the TarraGO!na Card. Its advantages are free admission to museums and free pass V public transport, discounts in restaurants and shops.

A taxi ride within the resort costs 1.3-1.5 euros per kilometer, another 3.50 euros is charged for landing. Transfer from the airport is more expensive: for example, from Reus to Salou you can take a taxi for 30 euros. Taxis in the Costa Dorada are equipped with meters, you need to look for a free car in the parking lots or order by phone.

One of the best ways to get around the Costa Dorada is by car. The offices of car rental companies operate at Barcelona and Reus airports, as well as in resorts.

We recommend booking a car in advance, because during the peak season only the most expensive cars. There are enough parking lots in cities, among them there are free (marked in white) and paid (you can recognize them by blue markings).

Things to do

A family vacation in the Costa Dorada cannot be imagined without a trip to Salou, to the Port Aventura amusement park. There are so many attractions and performances that even two days is not enough for everything.

In 2017, the park got a new entertainment area Ferrari Land with racing tracks, stunning rides and the Ferrari Museum of Fame.

In addition, this amusement park has a solid appendage in the form - so in one fell swoop you can be transported from Spain to caribbean. The water park opens at the end of May and runs until mid-September.

Not inferior to him in popularity near La Pineda. Its charm is in the enchanting show with the participation of dolphins and sea lions. And this water park is in no hurry to close and is open even in October.

Another amazing place to spend time with children is in Albignan. This is both the African savannah, inhabited by exotic animals, and a zoo, and a water park.

It will be no less interesting for the child to rope parks. Near Salou, there are slopes for both preschoolers and adult risk-takers. The slopes in Tarragona challenge daredevils of all ages. And in the Bosc Aventura Salou park there is a track even for three-year-old children.

Here are some more ideas for things to do in the Costa Dorada with a child:

• spend a day in (Tarragona), where there are attractions, trampolines, climbing walls, mini-karting and playgrounds for active games;
• rush along the 700-meter;
• get used to the role of a racer;
• do not believe your eyes at the performance in (Salou);
• decide to go on a trip to the maze of horrors "13 rooms" (Salou).

city ​​walks

Beaches and hotels are by no means the main charm of the Costa Dorada resorts. Walking along the old streets will bring no less pleasure than a beach holiday.

The city of Tarragona itself is like an open-air museum. There are several buildings erected during the Roman Empire. Among them are an amphitheater and an aqueduct, nicknamed the "Devil's Bridge".

And if in others resort towns the main place for the promenade is the promenade, then in Tarragona there is a Roman promenade. A leisurely walk through the ancient streets will replace a few pages from a history book.

To lighten things up, visit Plaça dels Sedassos and gawk at the weirdos that line the balconies of one of the houses. Who, children or adults, will guess faster that both balconies and people are painted on a blank wall?

Yes, yes, the Tarragona people are not alien to humor. Although girls can take classes at the Mermaid Academy quite seriously, where they learn how to use a mermaid tail.

The highlight of Salou - unusual fountains: luminous, singing. There is even a labyrinth fountain.

Such is the idle, in a good way, character of Cambrils. There are wonderful parks with shady alleys where you can take a walk with your child. Especially beautiful is the Fisherman's Park, more like Botanical Garden(there are also several playgrounds in the park). Not far from the city is Sama Park, where the landscape of the island of Cuba is recreated.

Camping

While relaxing with a child in the Costa Dorada, you can not be limited to city entertainment. To escape from the noise of the city, visit the Ebro Delta in the south of the Costa Dorada.

Herons and flamingos live in the protected area, and many migratory birds. Here, according to the Spaniards themselves, is the most beautiful coast on the Mediterranean Sea.

Rocks overgrown with greenery have a peculiar beauty. natural park Garraf near Sitges. Conquer these slopes on one of several hiking trails and, as a reward, admire the picturesque ruins of the Eramprunyà and Olivella castles, as well as a fully intact and functioning Tibetan monks' abode.

Sea and beach

A characteristic feature of the beaches of the Costa Dorada is their width and length. Even in the high season, there is enough space for sunbathers and sandcastle builders.

The gently sloping sandy bottom and the shallow sea near the shore are the best suited for bathing children. But experienced swimmers may have to wade through knee-deep water for about fifty meters until the bottom begins to sink.

The beaches of the Costa Dorada, as in all of Spain, are municipal. Entrance to any beach is free. There is no need to worry about the cleanliness of the coast - almost all the beaches of this province are marked with the prestigious "blue flag". Wherever you rest, everywhere there is a rental of sunbeds and umbrellas.

In Tarragona the most suitable place Platja Llarga beach is considered to be a beach holiday with children. It has a length of 3 km, is well equipped, fenced off from the noise of the streets by centuries-old oaks and is surprisingly sparsely populated.

On sandy beaches There are always a lot of families with kids in Salou: the sea off the coast of the resort is very shallow, just right for little bathers. This is especially noticeable on the Ponent beach.

The most comfortable beach for children is Llevant, it stretches along Jaime I Boulevard. But since it is located in the city center, most tourists flock here.

The pristine beauty of nature is preserved on Llarga beach. On Salou coast there are paid children's clubs where preschoolers can be left for a couple of hours in the care of animators.

Most calm resort for a beach holiday in the Costa Dorada, perhaps La Pineda. The beaches of this town are not crowded, the shallow sea warms up well, and there are many children's clubs and paddling pools on the shore.

In Cambrils, Llosa beach is considered a children's beach. On the other beaches of the resort there are many opportunities for active rest. If the kids have already outgrown sand play, they may want to get a couple of lessons at school. sailing Club Nautic Cambrils on Cap de Sant Pere beach.

Windsurfers gather on the Prat d’en Fores/Regueral beach, where you can also learn how to ride a board under the guidance of an instructor. There are also dive centers in Cambrils where you can get trained and then explore underwater park Tarragona and caves in Cala de la Font.

By the way, Spanish law allows you to sunbathe by the sea naked. Therefore, if you want your child to run along the bank without panties, you will not be obstructed. However, on the beaches you are unlikely to meet naked adults - nudists prefer to relax in secluded bays.

What to see

What to see in Costa Dorada? Usually travelers have time to notice a few interesting objects while walking on tourist trains. And we will offer a few more museums that are not striking, but definitely deserve attention.

In Tarragona, we recommend visiting. Its most lively part is the foundations of the Roman settlement of Tarraco. If you take preschoolers on a tour (admission is free for them), be sure to show them antique children's toys. In the same city there is the Port Museum and the Lighthouse Museum.

Among the attractions of Cambrils, they usually mention the historical museum, more like a residential building. We also recommend showing the child the old Port Tower. It contains exhibits related to the marine theme.

There are also especially secret museums, the name of which will not say anything about the exposition. For example, the Museum of Romance in Sitges is definitely worth a visit with children - for the sake of a large collection of old toys.

While relaxing in the Costa Dorada with children, you can also go to the town of Espluga de Francoli, where he works. The town itself also looks like a museum: medieval houses have been preserved in it.

Not far from Espluga de Francoli, there is another unusual and truly interesting place for children - Font-Major cave. In this dungeon, the camp of primitive people is recreated: you can see how male hunters butcher their prey, and women cook food and take care of children. These installations use real archaeological finds, many of which date back to the Paleolithic era.

Few people know that there is a Gaudí museum in Reus. The museum has created a multimedia space as unusual as the creations of a Reus-born architect.

The list of things to see with children in the Costa Dorada is often added near Barcelona. This amazing beauty place, but the road here is relatively long, so we recommend going on an excursion with schoolchildren.

But you can visit Costa Dorada with a child, which is 65 km from Tarragona. The fortress has fallen into disrepair over a thousand years, but even now it is clear how powerful and reasonably arranged a defensive structure it is.

Things to do

Where to stay: neighborhoods and surroundings

The choice of where to stay in the Costa Dorada is very democratic: a couple of five-star hotels, about a hundred solid fours, many budget triples and an incredible variety of villas and apartments. To understand where it is better with children, you need to focus on the goals of relaxation and ideas about comfort.

Hotels in the Costa Dorada, as in all of Spain, are rarely located directly on the coast. In hotels far from the coast, as a rule, they organize a transfer to the sea. For self rest in Costa Dorada with children, you can rent villas or apartments, but in this case you will have to get to the beach on your own.

A feature of the province of Tarragona: a railway line stretches along the entire coast. When booking accommodation, be interested in its distance from the railway tracks.

All areas of the Costa Dorada are suitable for families with children. Separately, I would like to mention only that Salou resorts and Cambrils have a Family Tourism Destination Certificate (DTF) issued by the Catalan Tourism Agency.

This implies the presence in the city of a wide range of children's entertainment, providing various services families with children in the hotel and the implementation of a number of safety requirements. Other resorts will not have such a range of services for children, but sufficient comfort is provided everywhere.

Tarragona

The main city of the province and a convenient family vacation spot. Close to shops and noisy streets, and quiet beaches. Tarragona's 15 km coastline offers a wide range of safe and family-friendly beaches such as Capellanes, Miracol or L'Arabassada. Moreover, all of them have received the Blue Flag award. Another important advantage of this city is that you can easily alternate between a passive beach holiday and something more active. In Tarragona you will be offered to go diving or snorkeling, go to sea ​​excursions on the Costa Dorada, visit interesting museums.

Cultural life in Tarragona does not stop for a minute. Tourist and recreational activities, therefore, no matter what month you come here, the chance to get to a cultural event is very high. However, we recommend planning your family trip to Tarragona during the city's main festivals and celebrations, as it is at this time that a lot of special events and activities are organized for the little ones.

Salou

Center summer fun. Despite the bustling activity of the city, Salou is often chosen for families with children. The reason is the long stretches of shallow water, where children splash with pleasure. Salou is famous not only for its charming beaches, but also for its parks. Parque infantil de Salou is considered one of the best for families with children. The resort is also popular due to the presence of natural attractions.

In recent years, the city has completely transformed into better side: the embankment was landscaped, new playgrounds and attractions appeared, many modern hotels and apartment complexes were built, offering a high level of service.

La Pineda

The town of comfort and peace. Although La Pineda is not certified as family resort, for holidays with kids, it is most suitable. There are very comfortable beaches, shallow sea, a lot of children's entertainment. In the evenings, the Passeig de Pau Casals, the longest promenade in Catalonia, hosts fun shows for children.

Cambrils

In the past, an old fishing port, and nowadays beautiful resort with a 10-kilometer strip of continuous beaches. In total, this resort has 9 fine sandy beaches: Ardiaca, Cap de Sant Pere, Horta Santa Maria, Prat d'en Fores/Regueral, Llosa, Riera, Esquirol, Vilafortuny and Cavet. All of them were awarded the European mark of quality and environmental safety - blue flag. With a gradual and gentle entry into the sea, the beaches of Cambrils are ideal for families with young children. This resort is calm even in high season.

Sitges

The closest resort to Barcelona is the Costa Dorada, and therefore the most expensive. This is a youth recreation center, so you can’t dream of peace here.

Among the places where to stay in the Costa Dorada with children, you can consider small towns, which are not well known to tourists, but have good infrastructure and transport links with major cities: San Carlos de la Rapita, Les Planes del Rey, El Poble Nou del Delta. There are also good hotels and apartments near the Costa Dorada, in La Canoja, Altafulla and other cities.

How to get there

By plane

The nearest airport is in Barcelona. Flight schedules are available on the El Prat Airport website.

How to get to the Costa Dorada from Barcelona Airport:

• by train (to Tarragona, Salou, Cambrils with a transfer at the Barcelona railway station);
• by bus (directly from the airport to Tarragona, Salou, La Pineda, Cambrils);
• by taxi;
• on a rented car;
• order a private transfer.

Some airlines operate charter flights to Reus Airport, which is 10 km from Tarragona. There are buses from the airport to the resorts.

By bus

There is a direct shuttle bus from Barcelona Airport to Tarragona, travel time is 1 hour. There are also direct buses from the airport to Salou and Cambrils. Tickets are sold at the box office. The timetable is available on the carrier's website: http://www.busplana.com. Besides, bus service connects the Costa Dorada with many cities in Europe.

By train

Electric trains run between all the resorts in the province of Tarragona. Trains from Barcelona depart from Sants station and arrive at the train station in Tarragona. R2 Nord trains run from the airport to Sants station. Castelldefels can be reached by the R2 train, and Vilanova i la Geltra by the R2 Sud train. The timetable is on the website of the RENFE company serving railways Spain: http://www.renfe.com/.

By car

If you plan to travel extensively in Spain with children, it makes sense to rent a car. This can be done at the airport or on the website of car rental companies.

How to get to the Costa Dorada resorts from Barcelona: along the S-32 highway, then along the AR-7 highway. Additional Information O transport communication from the Costa Dorada is on the official tourist site of Tarragona.

The main attractions of the Costa Dorada

Costa Dorada can offer travelers a rich excursion program. The abundance of natural and historical attractions allows you to diversify your vacation, and learn a lot of interesting things from the history of this amazing place.

Port Aventura

One of the main attractions of the Costa Dorada can be safely called the most visited amusement park in Spain, Port Aventura. The park occupies a vast territory, and is conditionally divided into 6 thematic zones. There are more than 40 attractions, water parks, golf courses, luxury hotels, and great beach clubs.

Gaudi Center in Reus

One of the most unusual sights of the resort can be considered the center of Gaudí, located in the city of Reus. This is a unique museum of contemporary art, created by modern architects with the latest technology. Here, tourists are unlikely to be able to see the usual exhibits. All objects of interest to you are located on glass floor the second floor, which plays the role of a huge computer monitor. If you move your foot over the object you are interested in, a movie about this object will be shown on the wall. All unusual exhibits are associated with the work of the famous Catalan architect Antonio Gaudí.

Ancient Roman aqueduct near Taragona

Of the historical sights, one can single out the ancient Roman aqueduct, located near Taragona. It was once used as a water pipe. But when he ceased to fulfill his main function, everyone forgot about him. Currently, the aqueduct is included in the UNESCO heritage list.

Amphitheater of Taragona

Among historical heritage Costa Dorada, you can also highlight the amphitheater of Taragona, perfectly preserved to this day. The amphitheater was built in the 2nd century and could accommodate more than 13,000 people. In the distant times of the reign of the Roman emperors, bloody gladiator fights were held here. In the 3rd century, priests were executed here. In memory of these difficult times of persecution of Christianity, the Tarragona people still honor the memory of the clergy who died here.