The best beaches on the Costa Dorada
THE BEST BEACHES ON THE COSTA DORADA Exploring and discovering the beaches of the Costa Dorada is an experience not to be missed if you visit Calafell. That is why, through this blog we want to share an exclusive guide to the best beaches on the Costa Dorada. Known for its crystal clear waters and enchanting landscapes, the Costa Dorada is the perfect destination for those looking for sun, sea and fun. From hidden coves to long family beaches, discover in this article the most impressive coastal spots that will make your visit to Calafell an unforgettable experience. Ready to discover and immerse yourself in the best beaches of the Costa Dorada? Tamarit Beach Playa de Tamarit is one of the jewels of the Costa Dorada, known for its impressive nature and peaceful atmosphere. Tamarit beach is located near Tarragona, distinguished by its golden sand and crystalline waters, common and natural characteristics in the various beaches of the Costa Dorada, being called the best beaches of the Catalan coast. What makes Playa de Tamarit so special is its picturesque setting, dominated by the majestic Tamarit castle, which offers spectacular views of the Costa Dorada countryside. The Costa Dorada is famous for its long beaches and hidden coves, and Playa de Tamarit is no exception. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities from snorkelling to paddle surfing in a natural, serene and safe environment. The beach also has services that guarantee the comfort of visitors, such as beach bars, sun loungers and parasols for hire, as well as picnic areas that invite you to spend the day enjoying nature, the sun and the sea. The combination of nature, tranquillity and modern comforts make Playa de Tamarit an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the natural essence of the Costa Dorada. Cala Forn There are many coves on the Costa Dorada, but Cala Forn stands out among them. This cove is located in the town of Ametlla de Mar, and offers a unique experience with its fine golden sand, crystal clear waters and the characteristic nature of the Costa Dorada. Cala Forn is surrounded by pine trees and cliffs, making it the ideal place for those seeking a quiet getaway and a deeper connection with nature. The Costa Dorada is well known for the diversity of its beaches and coves, having some of the best beaches on the Catalan coast. The Forn cove, although small, is ideal for snorkelling thanks to its rich seabed and transparent waters. Visitors to this beach can enjoy the tranquillity in a less crowded environment compared to other large beaches on the Costa Dorada. Exploring Cala Forn is a wonderful way to discover the essence of the Costa Dorada: a combination of breathtaking scenery, tranquillity and the extraordinary nature that characterises this part of the Mediterranean. Eucalyptus Beach Eucalyptus Beach is a natural jewel located in the Ebro Delta, on the Costa Dorada. This paradise stands out as one of the best beaches thanks to its extensive and wide strip of golden sand, which stretches for several kilometres, offering an atmosphere of tranquillity and nature. Surrounded by an environment of eucalyptus trees and marshes, the beach is characterised by its unspoilt and undisturbed landscape, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape to a magnificent beach and enjoy nature in its purest state. The dunes and the native vegetation of the Costa Dorada add a wild and picturesque touch to the beach, providing a refuge for various species of birds and local fauna, making this Eucalyptus Beach a point of interest for birdwatching and nature photography lovers. Moreover, the beach is located close to the Ebro Delta Natural Park, which allows visitors to combine their day at the beach with activities such as cycling routes, kayaking and nature watching in the delta. The ecological richness and diversity of this natural park perfectly complement the Eucalyptus Beach experience, offering a complete immersion in one of the most important ecosystems of the Iberian Peninsula. El Miracle Beach Miracle beach is one of the most emblematic beaches on the Costa Dorada, renowned for its exceptional nature and its proximity to the historic centre of Tarragona. With its wide promenade lined with palm trees, the Miracle beach offers a unique experience where nature and history blend harmoniously. Beach lovers can enjoy long walks along the shore, while those looking for a little more adrenaline can enjoy water sports such as paddle surfing and windsurfing. This beach on the Costa Dorada is one of those that could be classified as an ‘urban beach’ due to its easy access for city residents. The strong point of the Miracle beach is that it is very easy to get to. This beach has all kinds of services: lifeguards, showers and beach bars. Penya Tallada Cove, Salou This small cove in Cabo de Salou is perhaps one of the least known and best known beaches on the Costa Dorada. It is only 60 metres long and stands out for its unique landscape. Access is a bit tricky, as you have to go down a series of stairs to reach the sandy area of the beach. This beach is characterised by its nature. Take note because you won’t find any beach bars or toilets here! As we said, it stands out for its nature and privacy. If you want to get something to eat, the restaurants are at the top of the beach, at the foot of the road. This is precisely the wildest beach on the Costa Dorada, with a magnificent and authentic nature, due to its difficult access, but totally recommended for its natural beauty, guarded by cliffs, vegetation and crystalline waters. The Costa Dorada invites you to discover its best beaches! Do not hesitate to contact us! Boutique Hotel Akquaa has its facilities on the seafront. Enter the reservation section of the website and don’t miss out on your dream room www.akquaaa.com Experience it first-hand at Hotel Boutique
What free activities can you do this summer in Calafell?
WHAT FREE ACTIVITIES CAN YOU DO IN SUMMER IN CALAFELL? Calafell is one of the most outstanding coastal jewels of the province of Tarragona. It is the perfect destination to enjoy an unforgettable summer on one of the most beautiful coasts of Catalonia. This charming town offers a wide variety of free activities that allow you to enjoy its natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture. If you want to enjoy an unforgettable holiday without spending a lot of money, here are some of the best free and inexpensive activities to enjoy this summer in Calafell. The beaches, the sea of Calafell and its charms, you can’t leave without discovering them! Casa Barral Museum Calafell stands out for being an original coastal fishing village. If you want to discover its fishing roots in an original way, you should visit the Casa Barral Museum. What was once a humble fisherman’s shop now houses the fisherman’s museum in the town of Calafell. This is located on the Paseo Marítimo. This former home was the home of Carlos Barral, publisher and poet. The museum stands as one of the few testimonies of the town’s seafaring heritage, exhibiting the literature of Carlos Barral and preserving the traditions of the inhabitants of Calafell. If you want to know more about this emblematic museum and the fishing culture of Calafell click here. Discover the infinite beaches of Calafell During the summer season, the beaches of Calafell become one of the main attractions for visitors to the coastal town. In Calafell there are three main beaches: Mas Mel, Calafell and Segur. On the beaches of Calafell you can enjoy long stretches of golden sand and calm waters, inviting you to relax and spend a day sunbathing on the beach. In addition, on the beaches of Calafell you can enjoy facilities such as beach umbrellas, sun loungers, water activities and a variety of beach bars and restaurants right on the beach. The weekly street market in Calafell If you are more of a walker and shopper, the Calafell street market is for you. Every Tuesday from 8 a.m., the Calafell street market, located on Passeig de la Unió, sets up more than 70 stalls. There you can find everything, even local products! You can buy fresh food products, handicrafts, fashion and decorative items. The Calafell street market offers a complete variety of products, accessible to everyone. Discover the local gastronomy of Calafell The essence of Calafell’s gastronomy is closely related to seafood. Thanks to its coastal location, in Calafell you can enjoy fresh products, from the sea to your plate. If you are wondering what is the typical dish of the town of Calafell, you cannot leave without trying “arrossejat”, one of the most authentic dishes. Calafell is undoubtedly an outstanding gastronomic destination. Here you will find a wide variety of local and internationally renowned restaurants that will allow you to explore the diversity of the regional gastronomy. For your visit, you can’t leave without enjoying Akquaaa Restaurant’s delicious dishes of fresh, local produce. A restaurant on the seafront that fuses the maritime gastronomy of Calafell with its Basque roots. It also has an extensive cocktail menu that you can enjoy at its beach bar. Discover all the dishes and services offered by Akquaaa Restaurant here. Explore Calafell and immerse yourself in its history, architecture and coastal charm, while you delight in its varied cultural and gastronomic offer. Explore the history and heritage of Calafell If you are passionate about discovering the history and culture of the places you visit, we leave you with a series of locations that you cannot miss if you visit Calafell. Find out which are the free points of interest and museums you can visit this summer during your holidays. Santa Creu Fortress in Calafell If you visit Calafell you cannot leave without discovering the nooks and crannies of the Santa Creu Castle. It dates back to the 11th century and, although its walls were destroyed in the 17th century, significant historical elements have survived, such as the 11th century Romanesque church, the anthropomorphic tombs, the 18th century bell tower and a cistern. Initially, the Castle of Santa Creu de Calafell was a frontier castle of the Hispanic mark and, later, it became a Gothic residential palace, managed by different noble families. From the 16th century onwards, the castle began to deteriorate due to neglect and its partial destruction during the Reapers’ War in the 17th century. Subsequently, the site was used as a cemetery until 1938. Since 1982, thanks to the Patronato-Fundación del Castillo de Calafell, which has promoted the archaeological excavation and restoration of the castle, it has been opened to the public. Today, the Castle of Santa Creu de Calafell and its surroundings form an open-air Archaeological Park, which you should visit during your stay in Calafell. If you want to know more about the Castle of Calafell and visit it, you can get more information here Ancient Iberian Settlement of Calafell But that’s not all, if you want to know more about the history of Calafell, you can’t leave without visiting the Ancient Iberian Settlement of Calafell, also known as the Iberian Citadel. The Iberian Citadel of Calafell is an archaeological site of the coastal Iberians, which has been excavated for just over 30 years. It is a fortified enclosure facing the sea, which offers unrivalled views, founded in the 16th century. VI a.C. When you visit the Ancient Iberian Settlement of Calafell you will discover reconstructed houses, where replicas of objects of the Iberian culture are exhibited, you can also climb the defence towers through the reproduction of a Roman assault tower, facilitating the understanding of the past through the museographic elements. But that’s not all. In addition to discovering the history of Calafell through its architectural remains, thanks to the Ibercalafell group you can enjoy the Terra Ibèrica festival during the month of July. These are some plans that you can enjoy during your visit to
Tips and advantages if you travel to the beach in springtime
TIPS AND ADVANTAGES IF YOU TRAVEL TO THE BEACH IN SPRINGTIME We have always thought that the perfect season to travel and enjoy the beach is in summer, but what if I told you that spring is the best time to travel and enjoy coastal destinations as a couple, with family or friends. Spring on the Costa Dorada is the perfect season to enjoy a few days near the sea. Calafell, is the ideal town to spend the vacations with your loved ones in this season so marked of the year. Spring is known for its mild temperatures and lower volume of crowds compared to the high season in summer, so traveling in spring will provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Traveling to the beach in spring has several irresistible advantages. Discover them in this article! Pleasant weather in spring What stands out most about traveling in spring is the pleasant weather this season of the year offers. Temperatures are usually pleasant and warm, but not excessively hot like the summer months, which allows you to enjoy the sun and the sea breeze in a more comfortable way. This is an advantage when traveling with children, since they can enjoy their leisure time on the beach without worrying about sun exposure. In Calafell the weather is perfect to enjoy walks on the beach, sunbathe and take a dip in the sea. In addition, we cannot forget that the days begin to lengthen, offering more hours of sunshine, so you can enjoy and take advantage of them much more compared to other seasons of the year. Fewer tourist crowds One of the main advantages of traveling to the beach in the spring is that you will find fewer crowds compared to the summer months. This means that you can enjoy quieter and more relaxed beaches, without having to deal with the congestion of tourists that usually occurs during the high season. This calmness is also transferred to other aspects of your trip, for example, you will notice the difference in the hotels, since they will not be completely full as usual in high season, for this reason, you will be able to better enjoy their facilities and service. In addition to enjoying a more economical price during your stay. Special offers during the spring season Normally, the main obstacle that prevents us from enjoying a vacation is the high prices of activities and accommodations at certain times of the year. During the spring, prices are lower than in the summer, a season that stands out for its high occupancy in the sector. For this reason, many hotels offer special rates and promotional packages during the spring season, allowing you to enjoy a quality stay at more affordable prices. Take advantage of these low price dates to enjoy a beach getaway without breaking the budget! Akquaaa Hotel is located in Calafell, on the seafront, offering rooms with spectacular sea views and an exquisite restaurant with traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy at Akquaaa Hotel a familiar and cozy environment at any time of the year. Enjoy the unique nature of springtime Spring in Calafell is also a good time to explore the marine life, as many species are active only during this time of the year. Spring is a season in which nature is in full splendor, so you can enjoy walks along the promenade of Calafell, where you can admire the beauty of the coastal landscapes and marine life of the Costa Dorada. Variety of outdoor activities In addition to walks, games, picnics and swimming at the beach, spring in Calafell is perfect for a wide variety of outdoor activities making the most of the mild spring weather. At this time of the year you can enjoy water sports such as surfing or paddle surfing in a quiet way. But if you are more into other types of activities, there are also mountain options, such as hiking and guided excursions. You’ll have no excuse to travel in spring. There are options for all tastes and ages. Enjoy local seasonal gastronomy If you travel to Calafell in spring, you can enjoy the cozy terraces of the restaurants and bars along the coast, while enjoying a delicious cocktail on a terrace on the seafront with a serene and warm climate. Of course, you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the delicious local gastronomy of the Costa Dorada. Enjoy typical Mediterranean dishes such as paella, fresh seafood and local wines in the many restaurants and beach bars in the coastal area of Calafell. Tips for your trip to Calafell in Spring If you are planning a getaway to Calafell beach in spring, here are some tips to keep in mind before you take the plane: Book in advance: Although spring may be quieter than summer in terms of tourism, it is still a popular season for visiting beach destinations. Therefore, it is advisable to book accommodation and activities in advance to guarantee availability and enjoy the best prices. Pack your bag properlyIn addition to bathing suits and sunglasses, consider bringing light, comfortable clothing for the daytime, as well as some warmer clothing for the cooler spring evenings. And don’t forget to include appropriate footwear for walking on the beach and exploring the surroundings. Do not forget sun protection: Although the spring sun is not as aggressive as the summer sun, you can still get sunburned if you don’t take the proper precautions. Be sure to carry sunscreen with you and apply it before going out to the beach or for a daytime walk. Remember that even on cloudy days, UV rays can be strong, so stay protected at all times to avoid sunburn. Immerse yourself in local culture: Before your trip to Calafell in spring, take some time to learn about the rich local culture of the Costa Dorada. Find out about traditions, festivals and cultural events that may take place during your stay. By immersing yourself in the local culture, you can further enjoy
Christmas in Catalonia: traditions that illuminate the season
CHRISTMAS IN CATALONIA: TRADITIONS THAT LIGHT UP THE SEASON Christmas in Catalonia is a magical time, full of deep-rooted traditions that give a unique charm to this festive season. In this blog we explain the most notable Christmas traditions of Catalan culture and how they are celebrated here. The living manger: nativity scene in action One of the most appreciated traditions is the representation of the living manger. In many towns, squares are transformed into authentic biblical scenes with people and animals recreating the birth of Jesus. This representation captivates visitors and locals, immersing themselves in the Christmas story with a vivid and special setting. In Calafell, you can find one of these living nativity scenes from December 10 to 18 at the Masía Castelló. El Tió de Nadal The Caga Tió is a Christmas character from Catalan culture, characterized by being a wooden trunk with two or four wooden legs, a painted smiling face and a traditional Catalan barretina. On Christmas Eve the Tió “cats gifts” for the children after singing a song while they hit the trunk with a wooden stick. Therefore, since December 8, when the Immaculate Conception is celebrated, families begin to feed Tió every night and make sure he is warm under a thick blanket. This is a quirky and much-loved tradition among children that brings laughter and joy to the home at Christmas time. El Caganer Another typical Catalan tradition is the presence of “el caganer” in the manger. This figure represents a man defecating, dressed as a Catalan “pastoret”, who is placed in a discreet place in the nativity scene, generally under a tree or behind a rock or bush. Currently, “the caganer” has become a collector’s item and there are many variants of it, representing famous people, politicians, actors… in the same position as the original figure. Midnight Mass The Misa del Gallo is an important religious ceremony on Christmas Eve. The churches are filled with faithful to attend this mass that commemorates the birth of Jesus. After mass, families return home to share a special dinner and open gifts. Although this is not an exclusive tradition of Catalan culture, it has great importance on these dates, and is known as “La Missa del Gall”. Traditional Catalan Christmas meals Christmas cuisine in Catalonia is full of authentic flavors and traditional dishes that are enjoyed during the holidays: Escudella i carn d’olla: this dish is the undisputed star of the Christmas meal. It is a Catalan stew that consists of two parts, the “escudella” which is the soup and the “carn d’olla” which are the meats and vegetables cooked during the preparation of the soup. Canelons: Cannelloni are another classic dish on the Catalan table during the festivities. They are filled with meat left over from the previous day’s cooking, covered with bechamel and baked in the oven. Cannelloni are eaten on December 26, after Christmas, to celebrate Sant Esteve Day, a holiday that is only celebrated in Catalonia. Escudella de Nadal: Escudella de Nadal is a lighter dish than escudella i carn d’olla, which is served with “galets”, a snail-shaped pasta that is filled with minced meat. Christmas sweets: Catalan Christmas tables cannot be missing a good assortment of Polvorones and Nougats of all kinds, to finish family meals with a sweet touch. In the Akquaaa restaurant you can enjoy these typical Catalan dishes on holidays. Discover all our Christmas menus here. Christmas markets Christmas markets, like Santa Llúcia in Barcelona, are a tradition deeply rooted in Catalan culture. The vast majority of cities and towns in Catalonia have at least one Christmas market during this time. These markets offer artisan products, Christmas decorations, typical sweets and elements for the nativity scene and walking through them is to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and enjoy the essence of Catalan Christmas. In Segur de Calafell, you can also find a beautiful Christmas market near the sea, to enjoy a unique Christmas walk with the family. Christmas in Catalonia is a mosaic of traditions that unite the religious, the recreational and the cultural to create an incredible festive atmosphere. These unique customs, rooted in the history and identity of the region, make these holidays a truly special time, where the Christmas spirit is celebrated with joy and devotion. Do not hesitate to contact us and book your accommodation to enjoy a unique and unforgettable Christmas! Akquaaa Boutique Hotel and its facilities on the seafront. Enter the reservation section of the website and do not miss out on your dream room www.akquaaa.com Happy Holidays! Experience it first-hand at Hotel Boutique Akquaaa Reserve room
Enjoy winter on the beach: sports for the cold season
ENJOY WINTER ON THE BEACH: SPORTS FOR THE COLD SEASON When we think of the beach, it is easy to imagine sunny summer days, warm sand and cooling water, but the beach in winter also has its charm. You will find a calmer environment and the perfect opportunity to practice outdoor sports. So if you’re a beach lover looking for exciting ways to stay active during the winter, read on! Paddle Surf Paddle surfing is an excellent way to stay in shape while enjoying a marine environment. In winter, the beaches are usually quieter, meaning you can explore the coast without the peak season crowds. Plus, the effort required to stand and row will strengthen your core and improve your balance. Surf Surfing is an iconic beach sport that can be enjoyed all year round. In fact, some surfers prefer winter waves, which tend to be larger and more challenging. If you are a thrill-seeker and not afraid of cold water, winter surfing can be a rewarding experience. Volleyball on the beach Gather your friends and play beach volleyball. Sand provides a soft playing surface and allows you to burn calories while having fun. Even though it may be cold, exercise and competition will keep your body temperature elevated. Hiking on the beach The beaches offer unique trails for scenic walks. You can explore the coast, admire the beauty of winter, and enjoy the tranquility of the beach without the summer crowds. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear and if you’re lucky, you might find seashells and natural treasures. Open water swimming If you are a swimming enthusiast, don’t let winter stop you. As long as you have the right equipment, such as wetsuits, open water swimming can be a rejuvenating experience in winter. Experiencing the sensation of cold water and immersion in nature can be revitalizing. Beach frisbee Beach frisbee is a fun sport that you can play with friends or family. The soft sand cushions falls and allows you to move with ease. It’s a great way to stay active and socialize! Yoga on the beach Yoga on the beach is a relaxing way to exercise and connect with nature. Practicing yoga on the beach during winter gives you a calm and peaceful environment, ideal for meditating and stretching your muscles. Remember that, even in winter, it is important to take care of your skin and stay hydrated while enjoying outdoor activities on the beach. So next time you visit the coast in winter, consider trying one of these exciting sports to keep your body moving and your spirit high. Don’t let the cold stop you from enjoying the beach! Do not hesitate to contact us and book your accommodation to enjoy unforgettable holidays in September! Hotel Boutique and its facilities on the seafront. Enter the reservation section of the website and do not miss out on your dream room www.akquaaa.com Experience it first-hand at Hotel Boutique Akquaaa Reserve room
Visit Roman Tarragona!
Tarragona was the capital of the Roman Empire for two years, known as Tarraco, which was the name given to it by the Romans. This city is so alive and well preserved that in 2000 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
