Salou, situated just a 15-minute car journey from Tarragona and just under an hour and a half away from Barcelona, is one of the gems of the Costa Daurada. With plenty of sandy beaches and tourist attractions, it is a great holiday destination for everyone, whether you are looking for a relaxing seaside break or you are travelling with young children and looking to keep them busy.
If are looking forward to not only enjoying indulgent sunbathing and swimming sessions, but also to exploring the city of Salou itself, here is a day-long itinerary that will take from boarding a fun tourist train in the morning all the way to enjoying the spectacle that is Salou’s Fuente Luminosa close to midnight.
From a Ride in the Tourist Train…
Luckily, the tourist train has multiple stops throughout its journey where you can jump in and join in the fun. Here is the train’s itinerary, so you can work out which stop will be closest to your accommodation or your breakfast cafe of choice.
About the Tourist Train
A great way to start off your morning of exploring Salou is by taking a ride in the Trenet Turístic, or Tourist Train. It will take through the city’s most popular areas and past most of its important monuments, such as the Fuente Luminosa (Illuminated Fountain), but it will also let you look out onto less concurred beaches, such as the Cala Crancs, on the southernmost point of Salou. Children tend to find the Tourist Train fascinating, so this is a great adventure to take part in if you are travelling with young ones!
Prices
Per trip, adults pay €1.50; children between 4 and 12 years old pay €0.60; and children 3 years old and below travel free.
… To Camí de Ronda…
Once you have done a full ride on the Tourist Train, get off at the Carrer de Bruselles stop. From there, walk a couple of minutes until you reach Carrer de Colón, where the Camí de Ronda begins.
About Camí de Ronda
This coastal path is one of the most stunning ones in the Costa Daurada. The first bit of the journey is along a busy, lively promenade, but it quickly becomes a quieter path winding closely alongside the coast. Five-and-a-half kilometres long, this path was used in the past for sea surveillance and by fishermen; nowadays, you can enjoy astonishing panoramic views and walk by not only beaches and coves, but also significant historical remains, such as the Civil War era bunkers.
The route finishes at Cape Salou, from where you can spot common sea birds, as well as more difficult to spot breeds such as shearwaters, gannets or puffins (remember to bring your binoculars!).
… Past the Lighthouse…
The Lighthouse (and an annexed building) can be found by the Camí de Ronda, which goes around the whole construction.
About the Lighthouse
Opened in 1858, Salou’s lighthouse was powered by olive oil and its white light could be seen as far as 14 miles away. Today, it is still functioning, although with updated technology and a red light instead. However, the annexed building where the lighthouse’s keeper and engineer lived still stands. As you walk around it, you will also be able to see a few well-protected native plants, such as the asparagus plant, sea lilies, agave, or the white pine tree. There are three viewpoints where you can take in the sights, but we recommend the south one as the best one.
… Back to Els Pilons…
Els Pilons is back in central Salou (very close to where the Camí de Ronda starts), so in order to reach it you can either walk back by yourself along the coastal path (and enjoy the views again!) or get a local taxi, which will take you there in just 10 minutes.
About Els Pilons
Els Pilons, just at the end of the Passeig de Jaume I, is a wonderful setting to sit down after a long, satisfying walk to witness Salou’s gorgeous sunset, with its dancing shadows and fluffy clouds. The cool breeze is very welcome at the end of an active day, and there are a few ice cream parlours close by where you can get a delicious treat to enjoy whilst you wait for the sun to go down.
… And End at the Fuente Luminosa (Illuminated Fountain)
From Els Pilons, it is a quick 20 minute walk along the Passeig de Jaume I to the Fuente Luminosa.
About the Fuente Luminosa
Inaugurated in 1973, this fountain has been a hit with visitors and locals alike from the very beginning. Water, sound, and light all intertwine together in order to provide an unexpectedly entertaining and beautiful spectacle right at the heart of Salou. With 210 different combinations and water coming out of 100 water dispensers, it is a great sight to see for people of all ages.
Until June 30th, the spectacle will begin at 22:30h. After that, between July 1st and September 10th, it will start at 23:00h.
How to Get to Salou
Salou’s proximity to two major Spanish airports makes it very easily accessible. If you are looking for a wide array of options with regards to departure and arrival times, however, flying from London into Barcelona Airport is your best bet, as there are over 20 daily flights that can take you there. Prices vary widely between airlines, but budget airlines tend to offer a return journey for around £60-£90 per person.
Once you have landed, getting to Salou is fairly straightforward. The shortest and easiest way is to book a Barcelona airport shuttle, which will pick you up outside the terminal and drop you off in Salou in just over one hour.
Public transport is also an option, although it does take twice as long as driving. Take the Cercanías train to Barcelona-Sants Train Station (20-minute-long journey), from where you will find a regular Talgo train service that will take you to Salou’s train station in one hour and five minutes.
Where to Stay:
Aparthotel Ona Novelty – This central and modern apartment complex offers individual apartments with private balconies, a spacious living area, and a kitchenette so you can self-cater your holiday. Situated less than 100 metres from Levante Beach and within a five-minute walk from Salou’s shops and restaurants, it’s a great budget-friendly option.
Casablanca Playa – Just opposite Salou’s Playa de Poniente, this lovely, cared-for hotel offers stunning sea views, as most rooms have a balcony, as well as an outdoor pool. Its restaurant serves great Mediterranean cuisine, as well as a varied buffet, and its poolside terrace offers delightful tapas and cocktails.
H10 Salauris Palace – This stylish and comfortable hotel is great for families. Not only is it close to PortAventura Theme Park, it also offers an impressive outdoor pool (with its own waterfall!) where both adults and children will have a blast. Adults can also enjoy the Turkish bath and sauna. The buffet restaurant offers great local food to suit everyone’s preferences.
