Costa Daurada

In English, the name means ‘Golden Coast’, named so for its naturally sandy beaches. An easy Renfe train ride from Sants Estacio or Passeig de Gràcia will get you to the area in just over an hour. The areas of Costa Daurada range from quaint villages and historical sites to the resort town of Salou, which boasts tourists aplenty through the summer, partly due to its proximity to Port Aventura, a theme park where 90 rides and multiple live shows are great for families, while a golf course offers a quieter sporting escape if needed (there are four golf courses in the Costa Daurada as well as three pitch and putt courses). The Costa Cariba water park is also nearby, but if you prefer natural beaches Costa Daurada has over 60 to offer, several of which have earned ‘blue flag awards’ from the European Foundation for Environmental Eduaction. The towns of Calafell, Salou and Cambrils have been certified as family tourism destinations by the Catalan government. Five wine vineyards are also available for touring.