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Costa Dorada "Stretch out on beaches of fine gold sand; cool off from the sun's rays in clear shallow waters; dine out in warm evening air. Come and discover the Costa Dorada." Where the Tarragona region reaches the warm blue waters of the Mediterranean , you will find the long golden shores of the Costa Dorada. Spanning from Barcelona to Tarragora itself, this beach rich coast is home to unspoilt villages, clusters of villas, sophisticated towns and bustling resorts, all bathed in sunshine. Tarragona is the region's capital, and it is here that the Costa Dorada's past is most prominent, with Roman ruins scattered throughout the Old Town and around the outskirts. Sat on a rocky hill, Tarragona rises above the sea and offers beautiful views. All the sights in this ancient place are within walking distance and add a sense of history to this otherwise recently developed coast. Fishing is big business on the coast, with Vilanova and El Vendell serving as the major ports, while Cambrils' harbour also welcomes fishermen home each day. Cambrils and Salou, as well as the area between the two, has developed into one of the main tourist areas in Catalonia , with facilities and entertainment for all ages. Salou's hotels and apartments run right down to the seaside, while Cambrils see fishing nets, cafés and hotels all side by side. Sitges is a vibrant modern town, popular with people looking for a break from Barcelona , a city which is not to be missed in itself. As you approach the southern most areas of the Costa Dorada, the resorts peter out and give way to expanses of wetlands and lagoons, rich with birdlife and preserved in the Parc Natural del Delta de L'Ebre. Whether you want straight forward fun in the sun or a sense of Spanish history, the Costa Dorada covers it all. Beaches The Costa Dorada or ‘ Golden Coast ', earns its name from the 200 kilometres of golden beaches which line its shores. The warms waves of the Mediterranean roll onto narrow beaches of soft sand that attract families and sun seekers alike. Salou's beaches sit inside a sweeping bay and from here to Cambrils, the soft sand and shallow waters create a safe and sunny playground. You'll find palm fringed promenades and pavement cafés along most of the beaches, including the two at Vilanova. Bathers at La Pineda need to obey the flag systems on the beach, as there can be undercurrents here. Shopping From the fashionable streets of Barcelona and the pricey and stylish Sitges, through to the weekly markets in Cambrils and Salou, there's something for every type of shopping, whether you're after simple souvenirs or bargain hunting. Nightlife Salou and Cambrils are undoubtedly the liveliest resorts on the Costa Dorada once the sun has set, though throughout the coast, the evenings have a friendly and informal feel and low key family entertainment. Salou is busy after dark, with British pubs, bars and discos, while Sitges' vigourous nightlife has been popular with Barcelonans for years. Dine in an authentic Spanish atmosphere on Cambrils' harbour side and watch the fleets of fishermen returning from the sea. Stroll along the seafronts in the warm summer air or follow the sounds of Spanish guitar to where the passionate flamenco dancers are performing. Sightseeing Witness a slice of real Spanish life in the harbours of Cambrils and Vilanova and watch the fishermen work with seemingly endless tangles of nets and silver fish. Head to one of the festivals held throughout the summer – Sitges has hosted some outrageously ostentatious spectacles, with streets strewn with flowers. Historical sights abound in the environs of the Costa's capital, Tarragora. The Necropolis and its fascinating museum house the unearthed relics, remains and mosaics from pagan and Christian tombs, while the Roman amphitheatre sits on green slopes looking out to sea. A little way out of Tarragora, the remnants of a Roman aqueduct and the impressive Pablot monastery are both worth the effort. Fun for all the family can be found at Port Aventura, one of Europe's best theme parks with a wealth of riotous rides. Be sure to catch locals performing their proud and powerful regional dance, the Sardana. Local Specialities Every resort on the Costa Dorada has its fair share of cafés and restaurants, and the seafronts are full of opportunities for al fresco dining beside the promenades. In the larger resorts of Salou and Cambrils, as well as the stretch of coast in between, you'll find everything from pizzerias to Chinese restaurants, though for the best food, aim for local cuisine. Catalonian dishes uses freshly caught seafood, grilled meats and fresh vegetables grown in the area. Try the delicately fried chanquetes (tiny fish), sardines and anchovies, or the prawns, squid and mussels from the day's catch. Tapas is a must on any trip to Spain, and taste some of the home grown almonds, hazelnuts and soft fruits from the nearby orchards. The grapes in the Catalonian vineyards produce popular local wines such as Penedes and Priorat, not forgetting the regional cava. Money Matters There are 1.50 euros to the £1.00 as at 7th September 2005. Banking hours are Monday-Friday 08.30-14.00. Major credit cards are accepted at most shops, hotels and restaurants. HolidayLine Getting ready for your holiday may prompt a few last minute questions. Call our HolidayLine on 0906 584 2001 for information and advice on in-resort services and activities from experts in our overseas offices. This is a premium rate number and the lines are open 24 hours. Please see the A-Z Guide. Dress Code In most hotels and aparthotels gentlemen are required to wear long trousers to dinner. Please Note Most hotels or apartments ask customers to vacate their rooms between 10am and 12 midday. For late afternoon or evening flights, late check out rooms may be available. Please see Your Holiday, Your Choice options with your accommodation information.
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