The Costa Dorada - Spain`s very own "Gold Coast"

The Costa Dorada ( Duarada in Catalan ) means the Gold Coast and is around 135 Kms long stretching from Mataro in the north to Pensicola in the southern part of this beautiful coastline.

The Costa Dorada has many spacious sandy beaches with clean clear and shallow waters. The fertile lands around the coast produce some of the best wine in Spain along with olive groves, almonds hazel nuts, carobs and a wide selection of vegetables.


There are areas of pure natural beauty including two nature reserves,: the Deltra del Ebro National Park and the National Reserve of Tortoda-Besserit Passes. Another picturesque area of note and well worth a visit is the extremely beautiful Prados Mountain range.


The Coast is made up of 10 counties and 183 municipalities , the capital of which is the city of Tarragona. The 12 areas of the coast comprise of Altafulla, Calafell, Cambrils, Coma-Ruga, El Vendrell, Hospitalet Infant, L Ametlla de Mar, La Pineda, Miami Platja, Montbrio del Camp, Salou, and Tarragona.

Some of the most famous beach resorts can be found along the Costa Dorada including Salou and Cambrills, not to mention the picturesque towns of Cunit and Mont-Roig in the northern area, the Ebro delta, with long wide beaches and very fine sand . The delta to Les Cases d'Alcanar offers long beaches of clean heavy sand. Steeper and narrower beaches influenced by the nearby mountains around can be found at Vandellos, L'Ampolla and L'Ametlla de Mar btu are well worth a visit.


If you are a Spanish fiesta lover a good time to visit is between then February and March during the Carnival days. The Diada de Sant Jordi -also known as the Book Day is celebrated on April 23rd . The Revetlla de Sant Joan ( Nit del Foc or Fire Night ) is celebrated on June 23rd, and is the prelude to a series of summer events which include parties, firework displays and authentic dancing.


For food lovers the Catalan cuisine is second to none with a wide variety of international dishes , authentic Mediterranean cuisine can be found in numerous restaurants all along the Costa Dorada and as you can imagine the sea influences much of the Tarragona cooking including a wide variety of grilled and fried fish, fresh caught baby octopus, sea base cooked in salt, baby squid sautéed with broad beans, sea cucumbers and many more dishes that makes eating out in these parts something very special and unforgettable. In addition you have some excellent local wine which including Perlat Montsant and C N Èstruc Negre 2008.

The Costa Dorada has more then its fair share of accommodation of all types and to suit all pockets and tastes. Our pick of some of the most highly rated hotels along the gold coast include:


The Hotel Dorada Palace This fine hotel has a central setting in the resort of Salou with Port Aventura within a short drive. Green Fees are also available on site for nearby golf courses. The Dorada Palace is surrounded by gardens and has several terraces where guests can relax. There is a games room and a play area for children. It also has a rooftop terrace offers views over Salou and Port Aventura.

Another popular and great hotel located in Salou is the Santa Monica Playa located just 250 metres from the beach it has 2 outdoor swimming pools, a sun terrace and a garden. The hotel is in the centre of Salou, only 2 km from Port Aventura Theme Park. The historic Roman city of Tarragona is about 10 km away. Each room at the Santa Monica has a private balcony and satellite TV. A safe is available on request, and rooms are air-conditioned during the summer. The hotel has a buffet restaurant, including a children’s buffet. In summer there are regular theme dinners. The hotel also offers live entertainment, music and discos.

Other hotels of note located along the Costa Dorada include the Villagarcia de Arosa Situated along the waterfront promenade, this modern, 4-star hotel offers a range of facilities, each with enchanting views of Ria de Arousa estuary. The hotel is located 1 km from Vallagarcía de Arosay, approximately a 15 minute walk to the centre. During your stay you can relax and soak up the sun out on the terrace, cooling off in the pool. There is also a sitting room where you can unwind in peace and quiet.

A favourite located in Salou is the Augustus . This hotel is located along Salou’s seafront promenade, just 30 metres from the beach. It has 2 swimming pools by the sea, 1 for adults and 1 for children. Rooms at Hotel Augustus have a private balcony with views over the sea and the city of Salou. There is air conditioning and heating and a work desk in every room. Hotel Augustus offers wired internet in public areas and private parking, both at an additional cost. There is also a games room, a children’s playground and a large sun terrace.

Pamplona - Rich in History and Charm

Pamplona full of History and Charm

Located in the centre of the Autonomous region of Navarre, lies Pamplona, the capital of the Ancient Kingdom of Navarre.

Pamplona has always been an important stopping point on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela and was founded by the Roman general Pompey on the ancient Vascon settlement of Iruña in 75 B.C

Pamplona now has a population of around 200.000 and is a historic , charming, welcoming and modern city. The old quarter is a travelers delight and full of narrow streets, small plazas, churches, towers and Nobel dwellings.

Go deeper into the city and so much of the cities history will be revealed. Some of the cities most fascinating and popular destinations include the town hall, built in 1752 which commemorates the union of the hamlets of San Cernin, San Nicolas and Navarrería. Theres is the gothic church of Santo Domingo from the 16th Century. The Museum of Navarre houses an important collection of archaeological pieces and works of art. The outstanding Santa María la Real Cathedra is located in the La Navarrería neighborhood and so much more.

And remember some of the finest Spanish cuisine and wine comes from this beautiful region. Walking around the old quarter you will come across an amazing choice of restaurants serving a wide variety of local delicacies including lamb, small green peppers and locally grown asparagus dishes, not to mention an array of tapas ( Pinchos ) bars.

Exploring the historic part of Pamplona is easy by staying at some of the great value hotels located in the central part of the city . They include the AV Ciudad de Pamplona .This smart and modern hotel is situated in the centre of Pamplona, between the university site and the Ciudadela Park. From here you can stroll into the historic centre. Relax with friends or colleagues in the comfortable AC Lounge, at the end of a long day’s sightseeing the city. During the running of the bull festival, this is the ideal place to retreat from the festivities in the city centre and get some rest. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre, where you can unwind and exercise while on holiday. There is also a smart restaurant onsite, which allows you to sample typical local cuisine without leaving the hotel.


Another popular hotel in the central area is the Iruna Palace Tres Reyes Set in Taconera Park gardens, this modern hotel is situated in the very centre of Pamplona, close to the conference centre and Navarran Auditorium. The Tres Reyes hotel has all the services and facilities to help make your stay pleasant and relaxing. Guests can enjoy the summer swimming pool and garden.
There is also access to the picturesque Ulzama Golf Club.


Another highly rated establishment located in central Pamplona is the Sercotel Suites Mendebaldea . The hotel offers stylish suites and is located some 20-minutes walk from Pamplona's centre. Enjoy a private terrace, well-fitted kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The Sercotel Suites Mendebaldea are conveniently located near the University of Navarra and Pamplona's industrial parks. You can easily balance work and play with visits to Pamplona's charming centre for authentic Spanish food and wine.

The COSTA BLANCA - One of Spains Top Tourism Destinations

The Costa Blanca ( the white coast ) refers to one of Spain's top tourist destinations located in the province of Alicante within the autonomous region of Valencia. It's easy to see why it has become so popular specially when you take a look at what this 200 kilometre stretch of coastline has to offer. The name Costa Blanca was devised as a promotional name used by the now defunct BEA after launching an air service between London and Valencia in 1957.

There's something for everyone along the "white coast" which encompasses a diverse range of seaside resorts in the south east of the Iberian Peninsula. Beautiful stretches of coastline and beaches, tranquil white washed villages, great nightlife, internationally recognised attractions and theme parks and a vast array of accommodation facilities to suit all tastes and pockets are just some of the plus points that has made the Costa Blanca a favoured holiday and tourist destination for many thousands of visitors each year.

Most of the coastline itself has now been developed to meet the needs of mass tourism which can be both overpowering and welcoming, depending on what your looking for in an ideal holiday. In that respect there aren't to many quiet corners where you may find laid back quaint fishing villages and virgin beaches, although if you know where to go there are still many places of interest where you can escape the madding crowd and chill out before returning to the excitement the main resorts offer. The region's enviable climate attracts a year-round holiday trade where average temperatures range from 16 degrees C in winter to 32 degrees in summer and the sun generally shines for more than 315 days a year.

Tourism is at its height during the months of July and August when the temperature can nudge 40 degrees and the sea is a perfect 24-25 degrees. The low and mid season months attract those who prefer to avoid the sizzling summer sun and when the local perhaps older expat resident return from escaping the sizzling summer temperatures. This time of year is also favourite with sports enthusiasts specially golfers as the area boasts a good selection of 18 hole courses to suit all players and handicaps. British runs bowls clubs are also on offer and have become very popular with the local and visiting players.

BOOK hotels online along the Costa Blanca - 346 Hotels Available

Featured Hotels In San Sebastian

HOTEL MERCURE MONTE IGUELDO

This impressive hotel is set up high on Mount Igueldo and offers views of San Sebastian Bay. The hotel is in a green area, just 3 km (1.8 miles) from San Sebastian.

Mercure Monte Igueldo has an outdoor swimming pool with views of the coast. There is also a traditional restaurant and a bar.

Hotel Monte Igueldo is by the city's old lighthouse and there is a cable car down to the beach.

The resort of San Sebastian one of the most prestigious in Spain. It is located on the Bay of Biscay, just a few kilometres from the French border.

“The views are magnificent! We were unaware of the tasteful amusement park adjoining the hotel, and this was especially pleasing to our young (age 5 and 3) grandchildren. I would highly recommend this hotel.”

Robert, Charleston
2 August 2010

Average review score . 8.1 ( 195 reviews )

BOOK ROOMS AT THE MERCURE MONTE IGUELDO HOTEL ONLINE

Restaurant Guide and Dinning out in San Sebastian

San Sebastian ( Donostia ) is blessed with some of the finest dining establishments in Spain, and incredibly there are so many to choose from. The following is a guide that will help you in choosing the right one for on your next trip to the area and hopefully make your dining experience in this beautiful region of Spain an unforgettable one.

One of the most famous restaurants in San Sebastian is the award winning RESTAURANT ARZAK.

This restaurant is owned and run by one of the founding fathers of the Nuevo Cocina Vasca Juan Mari Arzak. He is aided expertly by his daughter Elena, a master chef in her own right. There is a special menu of the day which includes appetizers, two meats, a cheese plate and two desserts. The decor is traditional with the dining area being spacious but not large and retains intimacy. The clientele is mainly older patrons, most of whom are locals. The chef makes his rounds and chats with the regulars. This is one of Spain's first three star Michelin restaurants and reservations are a must.


RESTAURANT ARZAK is located at: Avda. Alcalde Jose Elosegui, 273, San Sebastian.
TEL: 943278465


See our complete restaurant guide HERE.

Costa Del Sol - A taste of the real Spain

Costa Del Sol holidays provide something for the whole family. The beautiful sandy beaches and lively resorts draw holiday makers in every year, and with more than 300 days of sun a year it really does live up to its name – Sunny Coast.

There are plenty of great places to go on a Costa Del Sol holiday where you can relax on the beach or enjoy a round of golf. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional Spanish experience why not head off the beaten track a bit.

Mijas

Mijas itself is split into two areas – Mijas Pueblo and Mijas Costa. The beautiful old town of Mijas Pueblo is located in the mountains and overlooks the Mediterranean coast. It is made up of picturesque cobbled streets, ornate craft shops and whitewashed Andalusian buildings and is an exciting place to explore.

A tranquil way of life is clearly evident in Mijas Pueblo and the distinct lack of cars indicates how far removed from typical Spanish holiday destinations it is. Most of the narrow streets are one-way and horse drawn carriages are the main mode of transport. Tourism does still play a big part of the villager’s lives however (despite the peaceful appearance) and attractions such as horse drawn carriage rides are very popular.

The town boasts a number of bars and restaurants serving traditional Spanish cuisine, and evening entertainment can be found at the weekly flamenco shows held in the main square. Festivals and processions are also held though out the year providing a taste of Spain that most people don’t get to see.

Estepona

Estepona is another interesting town in Costa Del Sol. Not only does it have beautiful sandy beaches which are ideal for a relaxing Costa Del Sol holiday, but it is also host to the famous Estepona Bullring and many other cultural attractions.

The town has managed to keep its charm and authentic Spanish roots despite its growth in tourism and is a great destination if you want all the tradition of an old Spanish town mixed with a great range of quality hotels, restaurants and facilities.

While on your Costa Del Sol holiday a visit to Estepona’s town market and tourist market are a must. Fresh fruit and veg can be found at these as well as many other products like leather, jewellery and art. Barter with the stall owners and find yourself a bargain.

Wherever you go on your Costa Del Sol holiday you will be guaranteed a great time, but for a bit more tradition these destinations get my vote.

The Charming Old Quarter - San Sebastian - Spain

The OLD QUARTER of SAN SEBASTIAN

As the name suggests this is the old part of San Sebastian. It stands sandwiched between the foot of Mount Urgull and the city centre and opens out to the sea on both sides from the Plaza de Salamanca to the old Harbour area . The area was completely rebuilt after a devastating fire therefore you only a very few building s will predate 1813. This is not to say that the old Part lakes any of the charms you would expect from an old fishing village. Soak up the atmosphere whilst walking around the cobbled streets and narrow alleys discovering some of the best Pintxo ( tapas ) bars , Restaurants and speciality shops that San Sebastian has to offer.

To the north of the old part is Mount Urgull, a demanding climb to the top is well worth the effort as you will be treated to an exhilarating view over the city and the Castillo de la Mota ( The Mota Castle ). On the west side of the mount are located the Cementario de los Ingleses ( The English Cemetery ) the Museo Militar ( Military Museum the Aquarium which has a glass tunnel walkway where you enjoy a 360 degree view of the marine life, and the Navel Museum which is located slightly north of the Royal Nautical Club.

If you enjoy walking around local indoor food markets as I do then I would recommend a visit to the Mercado de la Bretxa situated just off the Avenida del Boulevard there you will find many colourful stalls full of all the fine produce the area has to offer.

Two of the cities oldest churches can be found in the old quarter, the Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro and the Convent of San Telmo which now acts as a Museum.

At the centre of the Parte Vieja is the beautiful Plaza de la Constitucion where the main cities festivities take place and is fondly known as " La Consti " by the locals. The plaza used to be the bull ring in the middle ages and is surrounded by buildings with large white painted balconies , which are numbered and where the spectators could easily view the fight.

Roaming around the Old Part you will undoubtedly soak up the oldy worldly charm and enjoy the unmistakable atmosphere of an area that is invariable steeped in history and has seen so much activity and festivities yet still manages to continue with its traditional local life.

There are some charming Hotels and Hostels located in the old part of San Sebastian. The Pension San Juan comes highly rated, it is located in the 'Old Town' between the beaches of San Sebastian, La Concha and Zurriola (Gros) the 'surf beach' ( 3 min. walking each one ).

There are Hotels in and around the old quarter to suit all pockets and tastes including the impressive 5 star Hotel Maria Cristina located opposite San Sebastian’s Victoria Eugenia Theatre, with views over the Cantabrian Sea and Urumea River. Decorated in classic Belle Époque style, it features a luxurious spa.

Other fine hotels in the area include the Hotel Astoria , the NH Aranzazu , and the modest but great value Pension Iturriza .