How to discover the Costa Dorada

Literally translated as “Golden Coast,” the Costa Dorada is rightly famous for its honey-colored sand and countless beaches. But while this south-eastern corner of Catalonia enjoys long, lazy summers, there is much to discover outside of the warmest months, even away from the coastline. The region's mountainous interior offers everything from exciting hiking trails and fascinating ancient history to award-winning vineyards and sea-to-spoon gastronomy. If you're looking to get to know the region, here are six of the Costa Dorada's most popular destinations and how best to explore them.

1. Priorat

Best for: Wine tasting tours
The scenery in Priorat is spectacular at every turn, from the steep rocky valleys of the Montsan Mountains Natural Park to the quaint medieval villages tucked into the surrounding hills. However, the region's lush landscape is dominated by a specific type of vegetation: vineyards. This region is one of the few places in the world to grow Garnacha grapes, a cultivation made possible thanks to the warm, dry climate and mineral-rich slate soils known locally as licorella. The result is an extremely rich, full-bodied red wine with a distinctive earthy aroma that has attracted international attention. The best introduction is to hop through the region's picturesque villages and stop at its many vineyards and wine cellars for tours and tastings. Don't miss the well-preserved monastery of Cartoixa d'Escaladei. It was here, at the foot of the Montsan Mountains in Priorat, that monks began making wine in the 12th century. As night approaches, head east to the Prado, just outside the Priorat region. There, you'll find the Montañes de Prado Astronomical Park, which is surrounded by Europe's largest night sky reserve and hosts stargazing and astronomical shows.

2. Cambrilus

Perfect for: Coastal Cuisine
The seaside town of Cambrils is the gastronomic capital of the Costa Dorada. Miles of fields surrounding the region produce farm-fresh produce, including award-winning olive oil, Cambrils' wonderful white artichokes, and the nutty, sweet red chili peppers used in the region's famous Romesco sauce. is delivered to the restaurant. But in many coastal spots in Cambrils, farm-to-table transport trumps sea-to-spoon transport. The town has a long and rich fishing heritage, with boats setting sail daily in search of local specialties such as giant clam, squid, anchovies and octopus. Head to the port in the afternoon (around 5pm) to watch fishermen bring in the day's catch, then sample at one of the town's many traditional eateries.

3. Reus

Best Use: Art and Architecture
Antoni Gaudí may be synonymous with Barcelona, ​​but the visionary architect was born in Reus, a town nine miles northwest of Tarragona. Today, Gaudi fans can visit the church where he was baptized and the Gaudi Center, a fascinating space that uses audiovisual exhibits to tell the story of his life and work. Throughout the city, you can find examples of Catalan Modernism (an architectural style made famous by Gaudi and likened to Catalan Art Nouveau) on every corner. There are nearly 80 buildings in this style here, the most notable being Casa Navas, designed by Domènech y Montaner, also from Reus. The only original building whose interior remains completely intact, it features towering stained glass windows, brightly colored mosaic floors, and intricately carved stone arches. Montaner's Pere Mata Institute, a former psychiatric hospital, is equally ornate. While in Reus, don't miss tasting the local vermouth, which is made according to secret local recipes. Head to the town's Vermouth Museum and sip on some of the local finest while learning about its rich history.

4. Tarragona

Best for: Ancient history
This hilltop port town, known as Tarraco when first occupied by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, is one of Spain's most notable historical destinations. The most spectacular site is the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, which offers stunning views of the sea. Other Roman ruins in the city center include the ruins of the city walls, the Praetorium Tower, and the Circo Romano de Tarraco, an ancient chariot racetrack. To learn more about the importance of the Romans to this region, visit the Archaeological Museum of the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona, where you can see an excellent historical background along with other exhibits, especially the magnificent mosaic collection. Tarragona is also the perfect place to experience the Tower of the Man, Catalonia's famous castle, which is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Reaching a height of 6 to 10 people, these structures were first introduced along the Costa Dorada in the 18th century.

5. La Ruta del Sister

Best for: Trails and Tradition
This circular trail connects three historic monasteries: Santes Creus, Poblet and Valbona de les Monges, offering a more active way to explore the Costa Dorada. Hike, cycle or e-bike through pristine rolling hills, olive groves and woodlands and discover interesting medieval villages like Mont Blanc, with its well-preserved historic walls. This route is more than just a picturesque road, it offers a cultural immersion into Catalan life. From November to April, you may also have the opportunity to join local calçotadas along the route. These community events begin in the city of Valls, where they celebrate the harvest of calçotto (a green onion hybrid vegetable), which is cooked over an open fire and served to those who enjoy it with romesco sauce.

6. El Vendrell

Best for: Music and Culture
El Vendrell's most famous exporter, cellist Pau Casals, has left a lasting mark on the town. Learn about his life at the Pau Casals Museum, located in the house where he was born and his summer home on San Salvador Beach. For more music and culture, the Pau Casals Auditorium hosts a year-round program of jazz, classical and dance. Meanwhile, the Deu Museum's art collection ranges from the 12th century to the present day and features Spanish sculpture, paintings, and decorative objects. Meanwhile, just three miles from town, the four-mile stretch of fine sand beach in front of the neighborhoods of San Salvador, Coma Luga, and El Francas offers shallow, safe water suitable for swimming, and soothing waters. It has high quality iodine. You can learn more about their coastal culture at the recently opened Tavaris Museum, a site that highlights the importance of the sea to the region's architecture, history, and natural landscape.