Salou on the Costa Dorada is very definitely a favourite with families. The short flight time and the lively resort make it the ideal place for children of all ages. While some families enjoy spending their days on the beach others prefer to get out and about and get active in the local area. Here is our pick of what to do around Salou when you are visiting with children.
Family Fun in The Sun
Port Aventura is Spain’s first theme park and split into six different areas, the park has a man-made beach and a water park. The rides on offer here are fantastic and if you get an express pass you get to avoid all the queues. Smaller children may not be allowed on some of the rides so make sure you check the height restriction first to avoid disappointment.
The House of Illusion is another popular place among families. The kids will be amazed by the magicians and illusionists and can enjoy their inclusive drinks and dinner too if you choose the earlier show.
Barcelona is only an hour’s drive away and here children that love football can visit the Camp Nou Stadium, which is especially good fun if you take a tour. Barcelona also has an aquarium, which is famous in Europe for being the largest. A stroll up Las Ramblas is good fun for all the family who can enjoy the street entertainment and buzzing atmosphere.
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For families staying in Salou, the Dancing Fountain Show is a great activity to enjoy in the evening. Walk to the fountains and wander down the promenade, which is also buggy friendly. On the weekends there is laser show here that makes the fountains appear to be dancing!
The Choo Choo is a Noddy train that makes its way around Salou. This is lots of fun especially for younger children that are a bit tired and hot later in the day. There is also the Bosc Aventura Salou, which is a fabulous activity park perfect for tiring out the older kids. Here there are circuit bridges, zip wires and paintballing for kids over 12, as well as mini golf and a climbing wall. A really good tip is to bring your own picnic, as there are plenty of spots ideal for al fresco dining!
These are just a few of our family fun suggestions but there are plenty more besides.
How to Get to Salou
Travelling to Salou could not be easier. Barcelona has an international airport and is only 100km from the resort. A Barcelona airport transfer will only take an hour and a half and if you book with us at Shuttle Direct you can expect a good, cost effective and professional service. Barcelona airport is served by flights from most of the main European cities but if you prefer to travel by train, Rail Europe has some excellent deals.
Most people choose to fly, however, and opt to book their Barcelona airport transfer in advance, as this means that on arrival they have a no hassle and convenient way of getting to their destination in good time. Shared and private transfers can be booked depending on what is required.
Where to Stay
Hotel Tolosa – If you are looking for a hotel that is a ‘no frills’ accommodation option, Barcelona airport transfer, a 5-minute walk from Salou Beach is a great choice. With free Wi-Fi, a pretty terrace and air-conditioned rooms, the hotel is simple but has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Flat screen TVs and private bathrooms are par for the course. Breakfast is served on the terrace in summer and the lobby has a lounge area with TV.
Hotel Jaime 1 – Barcelona airport transfer, in the centre of Salou is our mid range choice. It has 2 outdoor swimming pools and private balconies with every room, which is bright, airy and air-conditioned. Satellite TV comes as standard as do en suite facilities. WI-FI is available for a surcharge and there is a fitness centre, sauna and mini golf course. An entertainment programme keeps kids and adults busy and the buffet restaurant serves good quality food. A poolside bar is just one of several others that serve drinks and snacks.
The Gran Palas – Our top of the range accommodation choice is Barcelona airport transfer, which is a luxury epitomised. Stunning gardens and beautiful outdoor pool and spa complement the elegant entrance and grand central staircase. Air-conditioned rooms have private balconies, minibars and flat-screen TVs and the spa has a sauna, Turkish bath, indoor pool and gym. The massage service and beauty treatments are available for a surcharge but add to the luxury facilities, as do the three restaurants.