The 10 most beautiful towns on the Costa Dorada, all close enough to visit from PortAventura World

exceptional part of the world: the Costa Dorada. 81 km of coastline with 60 soft sandy beaches that, with the reflection of the sun, acquire a golden hue that gives rise to its name.

But that’s not the only incredible aspect of this coastal area. It is also full of incredible natural spaces and has a unique biodiversity and historical and cultural heritage that make this area a great tourist attraction.

Would you like to know a little more about the surroundings of PortAventura World? Then keep reading because in this post we introduce you to the 10 most beautiful towns on the Costa Dorada.

Salou

Salou is famous to many for its multitude of beaches and coves, but what many people don’t know is that this town was founded in the sixth century B.C., and therefore has an extensive, and extremely interesting, history. Its port was one of the most important in Roman times and the Middle Ages, and set the scene for many events that would go down in history.

It wasn’t until the end of the nineteenth century that it became a place to spend the summer, laying the foundations for its current status today as a popular tourist resort. A status that PortAventura World is delighted to be part of.

Reus

If the various archaeological settlements tell us anything, it is that the Reus area has been inhabited for a million years. However, the origin of the city itself, as it is known today, dates back to the twelfth century.

Thanks to trade, it didn’t take long to flourish. In fact, it grew significantly over several stages. Due to this economic prosperity, it became one of Catalonia’s most prominent settlements and the second most important city, after Barcelona.

Today it is known for its great cultural offerings, for its modernist tradition, and for being the birthplace of Antoni Gaudí.

Cambrils

At PortAventura World we have great respect for the rich historical legacy that runs through this distinguished territory. Cambrils, as well as being one of the 10 most beautiful towns on the Costa Dorada, is a place that is steeped in history.

So much history, in fact, that its origins date back to before written accounts even existed. Few outsiders are aware of this, but it is here that the remains of one of the agricultural communities of prehistoric times have been found.

Since then, it has been surviving throughout the centuries right up to present day, and has given rise to a rich and varied architecture resulting from different eras.

Tarragona

PortAventura World has a wide variety of worlds, but the reason that we haven’t felt the need to include the ancient Roman Empire among them is because the ancient Tarraco is on our doorstep.

Founded in the third century B.C., the Romans made it their provincial capital after conquering the territory. That’s why, when you walk through its historical areas, you can still feel the heritage left behind by the descendants of Romulus and Remus.

These Roman remains have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and have led to the creation of the Tarraco Viva cultural festival, dedicated to spreading the history of Roman times.

La Pineda

It’s fairly obvious that La Pineda gets its name from the abundance of pine trees in this area. However, what many people don’t know is that there used to be an ancient Roman villa in this town.

Actualmente, este pequeño municipio perteneciente a Vila-seca es conocido por sus dos grandes playas, pero durante la Edad Media era una zona llena de torres defensivas construidas para evitar los ataques de los piratas.

Currently, this small municipality, which belongs to Vila-seca, is known for its two large beaches, but during the Middle Ages it was an area full of fortified towers built to prevent pirate attacks.

One of its most curious events takes place in December with the construction of a monumental sand nativity scene. If you’re in the area at this time of year and you have the chance, you should definitely go and see it.

Altafulla and Tamarit

Is Altafulla one of the most beautiful towns on the Costa Dorada? Without a doubt. Not only is it one of the most beautiful, it’s also one of the most charming towns.

Its medieval roots can still be glimpsed in the urban layout of the streets and in many of the buildings. In addition, its proximity to Tamarit means there’s no excuse not to pay a visit to both of these towns that retain much of the enchantment of bygone centuries.

If there’s something that you simply can’t afford to miss, it’s the castles found in each of the towns. They are amazing!

Torredembarra

There are towns that are lucky enough to have a bit of everything and Torredembarra is one of them. It’s an historic place, with great beaches and unique natural spaces.

Like many towns in the area, its origins go back to the Middle Ages, something that can be clearly seen as you walk by the oldest corners.

The lighthouse particularly stands out as an interesting construction; it was the final one to be built in the Spanish state in the twentieth century.

L’Ametlla de Mar

If you arrive in L’Ametlla de Mar and they tell you that you’re in La Cala, don’t worry, you haven’t made a mistake. It’s the name the locals have given to this beautiful town on the Costa Dorada.

A town with a fishing tradition that remains faithful to its origins, as evidenced by the large fleet of fishing boats that are moored on the docks of the port and its gastronomy rich in fish and shellfish.

In addition, it is the municipality in Catalonia with the second highest number of white flags, thanks to the good condition of many of its beaches and coves.

Calafell

Like many towns on the Costa Dorada, the number one tourist attraction of Calafell is the sun and the beach, but it has much more besides. For example, it is known that 22,000 years ago there were already people in the area following the discovery of a prehistoric cave at the end of the last century.

In addition, this town is also home to the Iberian Citadel, a fortress that is in an excellent state of conservation and that allows us an insight into how our ancestors lived in the area more than 2,500 years ago.

That reason alone is enough to put it in the top 10 most beautiful towns on the Costa Dorada.

Sant Carles de la Ràpita (La Ràpita)

Known for many years as Sant Carles de la Ràpita, this municipality located near the Ebro Delta changed its name in February 2022 after the change was approved in a referendum.

Its proximity to the Ebro Delta Natural Park makes it a town that you have to pass through to get to know the idiosyncrasies of this area.

Nowadays, it also stands out for its spectacular beaches and for the contrast between the sea and the mountains.

As you can see, visiting PortAventura World is not just about enjoying our parks; you can also take in other popular tourist sites. Remember: if you want to do a little more than just get in the #MoodAventura and are looking to explore the surroundings as well, stay in one of our hotels and have a great time.

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and brag about your great summer!