Hotels in Costa Dorada

Holidays in Salou on the famous Costa Dorada are perfect for all the family, and it’s easy to see why this is one of Spain’s most popular destinations, especially during the summer months. Located on the country’s northeastern coast, and within easy reach of the vibrant city of Barcelona, Salou is renowned for the great choice of activities it has on offer. As well as the beaches, bars, clubs, and shops, you’ll find the big theme park of PortAventura on the outskirts of the town, offering a multitude of exciting rides and live entertainments.

Enjoy a choice of water sports on the beaches of Capellans, Llarga, and Levante, or explore the old town with its stylish marina, long promenade, restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. This is a real family-friendly resort, with play areas for the kids along the beaches so you can easily keep an eye on them while you relax and soak up the Spanish sun.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Andalusia | Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Cap Salou | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca | Portaventura

Escape to the sunny shores of south eastern Spain by booking holidays to Costa Blanca. For those looking for Spain holidays, the region is one of the most popular destinations in the country, with stunning scenery, brilliant nightlife, and an endless array of cultural and natural attractions for you to explore.

This region's award-winning, gentle sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, while for thrill-seekers the giant Terra Mitica theme park is nearby. There’s also a fun-filled water park, Aqualandia, with tubes, slides and rapids which make a great day out for the whole family during your Costa Blanca holidays. Head inland from the sun-drenched resorts for historic towns and villages set in lush mountains. Many of these settlements date back to medieval or ancient times, and give a completely different experience to the usual touristy resorts along the coast.

Things to do

If you're interested in learning more about Spanish history, visit Santa Barbara Castle, a wonderful 10th century fortress near Alicante city centre. Standing on the dramatic rocky summit of Benacantil Mountain, it includes a ruined church, dungeons, cannons, and more fascinating artefacts. You can visit it for free and enjoy stunning views of the coast from the castle walls.

Another sight that's definitely worth putting on your Costa Blanca holidays itinerary is Tabarca, a glorious island just off the coast near the resort of Santa Pola. Originally fortified to protect its residents from pirates back in the 18th century, Tabarca is surrounded by dazzling emerald waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. See the island's historic walls, and enjoy some delicious seafood at one of its sea-view restaurants before you take the ferry back to the mainland.

If you're spending your Costa Blanca holidays in the Benidorm area, spend some time at the Terra Mítica theme park, which is divided into five ancient-themed areas such as Rome and Egypt. From thrill rides to big shows, it's guaranteed to keep you entertained for hours, and is a great alternative to the beach.

Benidorm

In Benidorm you’ll find picturesque beaches, palm-lined promenades, and incredible seafood restaurants with a buzzing, friendly atmosphere. Famed for its fun-loving nightlife, the resort is also home to a quaint old town where you’ll come across beautiful buildings and intimate cafes, serving up coffee and delicious tapas.

Alicante

With its historic sites, sought-after eateries and lovely marina, Alicante is a true all-round resort and a firm favourite on the Costa Blanca map, like Benidorm. As you explore the old town or walk along the seafront, you’ll be transported to another world, while its nightlife is the stuff of legends.

Cultural attractions in Costa Blanca

Beyond the beach, you’ll discover traditional towns surrounded by lush green mountains, perfect for a day of hiking. Explore the castle at Guadalest, walk among the whitewashed buildings of Altea, or take the tourist train to medieval Xàtiva for a fascinating day out in the Spain of times gone by.

Santa Barbara Castle, Alicante

One of Spain’s most impressive fortresses, Santa Barbara Castle has existed for well over 1,000 years and was built on the dramatic slopes of Mount Benacantil. You can reach the castle via a lift, although if you’re up for a challenge, you can also hike to the top.

Placa del Castelle, Benidorm

Visit this beautiful balcony next to the coast, where you’ll enjoy superb views of the city. Observe the historic church and see the cannons that were once used during the wars between Britain and Spain in the very early 19th century.

Theme parks in the Costa Blanca

Spend a day with the family at the Aqua Natura water park for adrenaline-pumping slides, a fun-filled alternative to the beach. It's a great spot to keep the kids happy.

Terra Natura

One of the highlights of any holiday to Benidorm is a visit to Terra Natura, a huge wildlife park with four themed areas. If you’re fascinated by venomous species, then don’t forget to visit the Pangea zone, where you’ll see everything from African scorpions to tarantulas and lizards. Then glide on the zip wire above grazing elephants at the Asia section, where you can see the king cobra, crocodiles, pythons, and other species native to the world’s largest continent. See Mediterranean wildlife at the Europe section, then head to the Americas section to learn about the toucans, jungle turkeys, armadillos, jaguars, and other New World species.

Aqua Natura

This brilliant water park is the perfect place to cool off in the hot summer sun. If you’re looking for an alternative to the hotel pool or the beach, this is the place to be. With adrenaline-pumping water slides, adults and children alike are guaranteed hours of fun. It’s right next door to Aqua Natura, too.

Chill out at the huge wave pool, then zoom down La Cresta, a rollercoaster-themed water chute where you’ll get to experience zero gravity. After, if you’re feeling brave enough, try the Zigzag Giant Slide, where you’ll zoom down 105 metres of twists and turns before you reach the water.

Ride down the 104-metre-long Black Hole, then race family and friends down the 50-metre-long multi track to see who arrives at the bottom first.

Natural attractions in Costa Blanca

Whether you’re relaxing on white sand beaches, hiking through pine forests, or trying out some watersports, holidays to Costa Blanca will certainly tick all of the boxes. From the pretty coves of Dénia to the dramatic landscapes of Montgó Mountain Nature Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on Spain’s Costa Blanca.

One of the most impressive natural sights is the Serra Gelada-Nord National Park, which has beautiful trails and steep cliffs overlooking the emerald waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Another place to look out for is the scenic Guadalest Valley near Alicante, where you can visit the Algar waterfall and enjoy stunning views over the large reservoir.

Places to stay

Beach-lovers head to Benidorm with its long golden beaches, picturesque old town and vibrant nightlife. Alicante combines great beaches with superb restaurants and a rich cultural history. Its attractive seafront and marina bustle with bars and cafés. As the coast curves around the cape, you reach Dénia and its pretty beaches lying at the foot of Montgó Mountain Nature Park. High cliffs look down over the quiet coves and sparkling blue waters of Jávea. Further north is the lively resort of Gandía and its historic old town, long sandy beach and impressive 14th-century castle.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Benidorm | Calpe

Basking in over 320 days of sunshine a year, the Costa del Sol is part of the aptly-named ‘Sunshine Coast’. Once famous for vibrant nightlife, Costa del Sol holidays can now be as up-tempo or as laid back as you want them to be. Family-friendly resorts, such as Benalmadena, offer everything you could possibly need if you’re taking a break with the kids, while couples might prefer the tranquillity of resorts such as Marbella and Pueblo Quinta.

There’s also the opportunity to enjoy a slice of old-school Spain, with a visit to the cobbled streets of Malaga’s Old Town and the Andalusian charms of Nerja. With almost 200 beaches to choose from, holidays to Costa del Sol are ideal for sun-worshippers, while those who’d like to get some sightseeing done will find plenty to see and do.

Things to do

Those with a head for heights will enjoy the awesome views from the cable car from Benalmadena town up to Monte Calamorro. Overlooking Benalmadena, the journey takes you up into the clouds, and on a clear day you can even see the coast of Africa! If you’d prefer something a little less vertigo-inducing, take a gentle walk along the promenade at Fuengirola, or relax in Marbella’s whitewashed old town before checking out the eye-wateringly expensive yachts in the marina.

Alternatively, head to the foothills of the Almijara mountain range to the neighbouring resorts of Nerja and Almuñécar, with their long beaches and palm-shaded promenades. After a day at the beach at Torremolinos, drive into the hills to visit some of the most picturesque "white towns".

Most famous for its beaches, Costa del Sol is home to the sun, sea and sand holiday. With a glass of refreshing sangria in hand, you can relax with a good book at Torremolinos, or splash in the crystal clear Mediterranean seas at the beaches in Fuengirola.

If you’re travelling with the kids, there are plenty of brilliant attractions to explore on your Spain holiday. From the Bioparc Zoo to the sea life centre in Benalmadena, there are endless possibilities for family fun on the Costa Del Sol. At Cocodrilos Park you can see all kinds of crocodiles in their large enclosures.

If you like to be active on holiday, take a scuba diving lesson, or go and see the world’s longest stalactite in the Nerja Caves. When you’ve worked up an appetite, head back to the coast to feast on freshly-cooked seafood at one of the wonderful family-run restaurants.

Places to stay

Head west of Málaga for some of the best-known resorts in Spain. Bustling Torremolinos and its family-friendly neighbour Benalmadena share some of the most exceptional beaches in the Costa del Sol. Further west is Fuengirola with its Blue Flag beaches and ancient castle. Chichi Marbella attracts the wealthy and famous to its beautiful beaches and upscale port.

Estepona combines fun on the beach with a delightful old town of cobbled streets and narrow lanes. The Costa del Sol’s capital, Málaga, has an elegant traffic-free old town and seafront lined with some of the Costa del Sol’s top restaurants.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Benalmadena | Fuengirola | Marbella | Nerja | Torremolinos

The sun-soaked Costas are some of the top destinations for those looking for Spain holidays, and the Costa Brava is no different. Between the shimmering beaches with honey-coloured sands are quaint villages, historic towns and fun-filled waterparks that the whole family will love. With such a high concentration of natural and cultural attractions to explore, you'll never be short of things to do; is it any wonder it’s still one of the top places for Brits to head for some fun in the sun?

There's everything from thrilling banana boat rides to local museums packed with history, and water parks the kids will love; the choice is yours. Whether you’re booking your holidays to Costa Brava to experience the world-class nightlife of its seaside resorts, or to explore its Modernist or medieval architecture, this region has it all.

Things to do

Explore the beautiful city of Girona and see its magnificent cathedral and medieval quarter during your Costa Brava holiday. Admire the colourful buildings reflected in the waters of the Riu Onyar, see Girona’s other impressive Gothic and Romanesque landmarks, and dine in style at one of the city’s upmarket restaurants.

Love art? Check out the Portlligat Museum-House in Port Lligat, which was once the home and workplace of Salvador Dalí, one of the country's most celebrated artists. This impressive building, overlooking the sea, became a museum shortly after Dalí's death in 1982 and exhibits many of his best works.

Another place worth putting on your Costa Brava holidays places to see list is the medieval village of Besalú about a 35-minute journey from Girona, which is known for its wonderful Romanesque bridge.

Step away from the popular beaches and energetic bars and you’ll find honey-coloured buildings and a genuine, traditional Spanish atmosphere that gives you a glimpse into life in this welcoming Mediterranean destination. Back at the beach it’s sandcastle time, water sports galore, and theme parks that are the perfect family day out in the sun. Costa Brava holidays are still one of our favourites at any time of the year, and we know you love this destination as much as we do.

Attractions

From historical Roman ruins, picturesque medieval villages, and theme parks that are purpose-built to maximise some family fun in the sun, holidays to Costa Brava introduce you to a wealth of attractions. Art lovers will make a beeline for Dali’s home just outside Cadaqués, where you’ll even find a seven-foot-tall stuffed bear in the entrance, and a wacky garden filled with treasures, sculptures, and artefacts to amaze and delight.

Close to the seaside town of L’Escala you’ll discover a Greco/Roman complex complete with pillars, walkways and surprisingly well-preserved remains. This is one of the most important archaeological sites in Spain and well worth a visit. Costa Brava holidays give you a chance to discover the attractions of Catalonia, one of Spain’s most unique and interesting regions.

Family Fun

From superb beaches that are perfect for sandcastle competitions, paddling, and having fun in the sun to purpose-built theme parks, the Costa Brava is a very family-friendly destination. However, while the slides, rides, and splash pools of the aqua parks are great there’s also plenty of natural wonders to discover as a family. Head close to the French border and you’ll find the Cap de Creus National Park, a wonderful spot if your family is into hiking, camping and exploring the mountains of Spain.

Entertainment

Costa Brava holidays are popular with groups of mates, who head here for the exceptional nightlife and fantastic bars, clubs and party scene that livens up the region every summer. There’s also a surprising range of nightlife on offer, too, from smooth jazz and Euro-House to Blues, classical, and lounge music, every taste is catered for on a Costa Brava holiday.

Check out La Lluna in Begur, indulge in a cremat (black coffee fortified with rum and spices) on the terrace in Can Gelpi, or party hard in Lloret de Mar all summer long.

Towns and Cities

You’ll find incredible medieval towns and villages tumbling down hills to the coast, or ultra-sophisticated cities filled with museums and art galleries right across the region. One of the prettiest medieval towns is Begur, with golden houses, cobbled streets, and very little in the way of crowds, even during the height of summer.

For party lovers the top city destination has to be Lloret de Mar, the capital of having a good time on the Costa, with 24/7 nightlife and affordable hotels. Leave the car behind and wander the tiny alleyways and cobbled squares of Peratallada, or spend the weekend in the city of Girona.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Calella | Lloret de Mar | Malgrat de Mar