Salou, with about 31,500 inhabitants, is one of the best-known resorts on the Costa Daurada, in the province of Tarragona, in Catalonia. In summer its population multiplies with visitors, mostly families, drawn by the beaches and PortAventura World.
History
Salou's harbour has been used since antiquity. In 1229 the fleet of King James I of Aragon sailed from here to conquer Majorca, an event recalled by a statue on the seafront. In the 16th century the Torre Vella was built against pirates. Until 1989 Salou was part of the municipality of Vila-seca.
Beaches
- Platja de Llevant, the main beach, over a kilometre long, with Passeig Jaume I, the palm-lined promenade.
- Platja de Ponent, quieter, towards Cambrils.
- The coves along the rocky coast of Cap Salou, such as Cala Crancs, Cala Font, Platja Llarga and Cala Penya Tallada, reached by the Camí de Ronda coastal path.
What to see
- The Torre Vella, a 16th-century defence tower, now a cultural centre.
- The Font Lluminosa, the illuminated fountain with evening shows of water, light and music.
- Passeig Miramar and the lighthouse.
- Early 20th-century villas along the coast.
PortAventura World
PortAventura World, between Salou and Vila-seca, is one of Europe's largest entertainment resorts, with PortAventura Park, divided into areas themed on the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico and the Far West, the Caribe Aquatic Park water park and Ferrari Land, with one of Europe's tallest and fastest roller coasters.
Festivals and food
The most eagerly awaited fiestas are in summer, with concerts and fireworks over the sea. Food: romesco, the sauce of dried peppers, almonds and hazelnuts, suquet, rice dishes and calçots in winter.
Getting there
Reus airport is about 10 km away, Barcelona's about 100 km. Salou has a regional train station and the Camp de Tarragona AVE station is about 20 km away.