Situated on the Costa Dorada's sun-drenched coast, 50 miles (80km) west of Barcelona and six miles (10km) west of Tarragona, the popular holiday resort town of Salou is hard to beat for a fun family vacation. It is fairly spread out and merges with the neighbouring resorts of La Pineda to the east and Cambrils to the west, all of which benefit from the string of wonderful clean, sandy beaches and secluded rocky coves. As well as the natural attractions, Salou is also packed with entertainment for all ages, including numerous water sports, an aqua park, go-karting and the PortAventura Theme Park, one of Europe's most thrilling theme parks, formerly owned by Universal. Sightseers interested in museums or ancient history will find plenty to occupy them in nearby Tarragona, or on excursions into the countryside. Salou's seafront promenade is set with beautifully landscaped gardens and parks; fountains are lit up at night when holidaymakers stroll to the restaurants, nightclubs, bars and British-style pubs.
There is a good selection of souvenir and fashion stores in Salou, and holidaymakers who want to enjoy more extensive shopping can hop on a train and travel to the renowned shopping paradise of Barcelona, just 40 minutes away. Self-caterers will easily find all they need within the resort and there is a flea market in the old town centre of Salou on Mondays.
Eating out is relatively cheap and although many places cater to holidaymakers and British palates with international stables and pub grub, there are also plenty of good Spanish seafood restaurants and traditional tapas bars. There are Chinese and Italian restaurants as well for those wanting some variety.
Holidaymakers looking for a good night out in Salou will find plenty of fun bars, including popular options like Christy's Irish Bar, 007 Bond, Double Scotch or Charlie Chaplin's. The nightlife is varied, with flamenco venues, nightclubs and discos, but it may still be a a bit quiet for those meaning to do some serious partying. Luckily, Barcelona is under an hour away by train and well worth a visit for an energetic and atmospheric night out.
Even the most hyperactive child can be kept amused for weeks in Salou. Water sports such as banana boating and windsurfing can be arranged at the main beach and the PortAventura Theme Park can provide entertainment for two days or more, while the go-kart track and the aqua park in Pineda are also great fun for holidaymakers of all ages.
The beaches in Salou can get very crowded in July and August; however, quieter beaches and empty coves can be found nearby.