Situated along Costa Daurada in Catalonia, the resort town of Salou is revered for its pristine beaches, beautiful architecture, and serene city parks. The town’s main Llevant Beach borders Jaume I promenade, where tall palm trees guide you past restaurants and bars to the shallow shores. To the west of the centre are the vast stretches of sand from Ponent Beach, which runs parallel to Miramar Boulevard and its collection of gift shops and ice-cream parlours. There’s plenty to explore away from the beach, too, including Parc de la Ciutat, a lush green flowery oasis with rippling ponds, an idyllic spot for peaceful strolls or picnics beneath the trees.

Further south on the edge of Cap de Salou, a small path dotted with asparagus plants and sea lilies leads to the striking red Salou Lighthouse, and to the east, perched atop a hill, the 12th-century Tarragona Cathedral shows off its intricate Gothic and Romanesque architecture.

Reus Airport (REU) receives seasonal flights from a number of UK cities. The drive or taxi ride from the airport to Salou takes just under 20 minutes. From Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN), the drive takes about an hour, with taxis and car hire available. BusPlana provides regular bus services to Salou with intercity connections, though renting a car may be the most convenient way to reach your holiday Salou apartment and other accommodations in the area, allowing you to explore the city and neighbouring towns at your own pace.

Salou experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, balmy summers and mild winters. The summer months can see hours of high sun, suitable for long days on the beach. Autumn brings the rain, with September to October seeing high levels of precipitation. The temperatures typically drop from November into March, with the air remaining chilly until the area heats up in mid-May to welcome spring. The late winter often experiences snow before the spring flowers blossom.

Salou boasts a rich cultural calendar, with festivals and holiday celebrations animating the streets throughout the year. In summer, the city hosts live music, fiestas, and fairs, while Salou celebrates winter with a parade of floats, colourful lights, and live performances.

Llenguadets Beach

A coastal path leads you from a small cove to the shimmering waters of Llenguadets Beach. Cocooned by rocky headlands, the small beach is perfect for sunbathing and snorkelling and tends to be less crowded than Salou’s main beaches, offering a more serene atmosphere. Sunbeds can be rented on site, and you may even spot some fish in the shallow waters while taking a dip.

Avenida Jaume I

This fountain-lined promenade is the main artery of Salou. In the middle of the wide thoroughfare is the King Jaume I Monument, built in 1965 to honour the renowned medieval king of Aragon with a soaring sailboat, a stone figure of the king, and a golden sculpture of his horse. The promenade provides easy access to the main beaches, restaurants, cafes, and pubs, and is also a lovely path for a midday stroll.

Torre Vella de Salou

This 16th-century defensive tower is now home to an art centre dedicated to painting exhibitions. Here you’ll find the Contemporary Enamel Museum, which features porcelain enamels from global artists, surrounded by a number of lush gardens. Check the art centre’s calendar for author talks and special exhibits by local artists.