Latest news with #Tarragona
Telegraph
6 days ago
- General
- Telegraph
The 10 best day trips from Barcelona
You could spend months in Barcelona without running out of new things to experience, but if you're in need of a change of pace there are plenty of alternatives – most within easy reach, thanks to the excellent local railway system. Lesser-visited medieval towns, glorious hikes and curious museums are often less than an hour away. All our recommendations below have been hand selected and tested by our resident destination expert to help you discover the best day trips near Barcelona. For further inspiration, see our in-depth guides to the city's best hotels, restaurants, bars and nightlife, shopping, attractions, things to do for free and beaches. Find a day trip by type: Best for history Montserrat Monastery Come for the monastery and to listen to the celestial voices of the boys' choir, and stay for the hiking – paths scented with thyme meander over the jagged peaks revealing spectacular views. The museum has an unexpected collection of great art, including paintings by Caravaggio, Picasso, El Greco, Dalí, Miró and a host of others. Website: Area: Montserrat How to get there: take the train from Plaça Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat (one hour), then rack railway. Tarragona In Roman times 'Tarraco' was the capital of half of Spain, and many vestiges of that period can still be seen. These include the city walls; the praetorian; the amphitheatre and the Roman circus, where chariot races were once held. The cathedral and its beautifully preserved 12th-century cloister shouldn't be missed, but leave time for a wander through its old town.
The Independent
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Independent
Take a culinary tour of the Costa Dorada: from traditional eats to haute cuisine
Stretching along the Mediterranean, the Costa Dorada (locally known as Costa Daurada) is not only beautiful but has a reputation for seriously delicious cuisine. Thanks to its proximity to the water, seafood is a highlight. But its mountainous inland terrain also offers up a wide variety of meat and vegetables, as well as a wonderful terroir for a wealth of wine varieties. What's more, with Jet2holidays flying to the Costa Dorada from 12 UK airports and a range of two to five-star accommodation, it's easy to plan your next culinary adventure. Jet2holidays is always giving you more, to help make planning and booking as smooth as possible. That goes for the PayPal Pay in 3 interest-free payments** option, as well as the 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage, and return transfers† that are included. Look out for Free Child Places***, and infants under two go free‡. From great eateries and foodie experiences to the best local dishes to try, here's what you can look forward to on your gastronomic travels… Delicious traditional dishes Begin your travels with a journey around some of the region's most delicious traditional dishes. Like xató; originating from Tarragona, it's made with escarole (similar to an endive), tomato and salt cod or tuna, and served with a sauce made from almonds and ñoras (dried peppers).Another popular fish-based dish is suquet de peix, a tasty stew which features a variety of seafood and vegetables. Meanwhile, many menus also offer the likes of arròs caldós, a soupy rice dish, rossejat, a seafood pasta dish, and mar i muntanya, which combines seafood and meat, reflecting the region's 'sea and mountain' cuisine. You'll find all these, and more, in local restaurants in some of the region's most charming locations, all around Costa Dorada, or look out for them on the menu at one of the restaurant options at your Jet2holidays hotel. Fabulous foodie experiences Time your visit for a calçotada, a festive Catalan gathering held between November and April, where people celebrate the harvest of calçots (a type of large, sweet onion). It's usually served grilled with romesco, sauce, accompanied by meat and wine. For a truly authentic experience, head to Valls, the birthplace of the tradition. Olive oil is also a revered ingredient in the Costa Dorada; going back to ancient times, olive cultivation is a key part of the region's Mediterranean heritage. Centres, museums and historical mills offer tours combined with tastings, walks among olive groves and gastronomic menus with lashings of olive oil. Head to the Olive Oil Interpretation Centre in Vandellòs, located in an old olive mill, where you'll observe everything about the production process, from harvesting to bottling. Or follow the Priorat olive oil route, which offers 26 different experiences aimed at discovering and tasting the finest extra virgin oil. There's even an olive oil cycling route, which meanders through the region of Baix Camp, just 20 minutes from Tarragona. It produces one of Catalonia's most famous olive oils under the DOP Siurana. Finally, don't miss a trip to the nearby village of Riudecanyes, dotted with many olive trees that are over 100 years old. The world of wine (and vermouth) The Costa Dorada promotes enogastronomy, the art of pairing wine with food, so you'll always have something delicious to drink alongside your meal. The whole area, particularly the DOQ (Denominació d'Origen Qualificada) Priorat region, is known for great wine, especially robust reds. But you'll also find fabulous red, white and rosé wines from the Designations of Origin Montsant, Tarragona, Conca de Barberà, and Penedès. Embark on a wine trail through Priorat, to discover grape varieties such as Carignan, Grenache and Grenache blanc. Take tours through vineyards, learn about the wine-making process and, most importantly, enjoy tastings. Close to Priorat area, Conca de Barberà, produces light red and fruity rosés; while closer to the coast, Penedés is famous for its sparkling Cava. Moreover, the Costa Dorada – particularly the elegant city of Reus, birthplace of legendary architect Antoni Gaudí – is also known for vermouth, a sweet, aromatic fortified wine flavoured with botanicals, herbs and spices. Find out more at the city's Vermouth Museum, dedicated to the culture of this unique drink with a collection of over 6,500 items related to it. Then set out on the Reus Vermouth Route. This features dozens of establishments which either serve it or are connected to its history, including its incredible modernist architecture. Eateries for everyone The Costa Dorada brims with producers and professionals who pride themselves on showcasing the region's gastronomy. Many also make sure they only offer local products – known as the 'Slow food kilometre zero' initiative. You'll also find plenty of fantastic restaurants which serve locally-sourced dishes which prioritise local and organic farming and use seasonal ingredients. This way, you're connected to tradition and authenticity by what's on your plate. If you're looking for even more elevated cuisine, head to Cambrils – known as the gastronomic capital of the Costa Dorada, with two Michelin-starred restaurants alone. Or you could venture to Salou or Cornudella de Montsant for some out-of-this-world fine dining. At your Jet2holidays hotel, make sure you delve into the diverse cuisines and speciality dishes on offer, as well as the ever-changing live chef stations and in-house pop-ups. And if you're planning to take a taste of the Costa Dorada back home, make sure you visit local producers for excellent sweets, jams, rice, vinegar, hazelnuts and more. There's also a wealth of great places for families to eat out. Head to Salou for fab ice cream parlours, ideal for hot, sunny days, or to Cambrils for buffet-style eateries, where every family member can choose exactly what they want. Reus has a selection of brilliant local markets, such as the Mercat Central and the Mercat del Carrilet, where you can purchase traditional produce, from meats and cheeses to delicious bread, to take to the beach for the perfect picnic. With Jet2holidays, you can book your trip to the Costa Dorada with lots of package perks thrown into make getting away even easier. From a low £60 per person deposit*, PayPal Pay in 3 interest-free payments** , 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage per person to return transfers†, it's all included. Families can make the most of Free Child Places***, while infants under two go free‡. And with flights included and the choice of two to five-star hotels, Jet2holidays is always giving you more. For more Costa Dorada travel inspiration, and to find and book your ultimate holiday, visit Jet2holidays. Plus, right now, myJet2 members can save £100 per person§ in The Big Jet2 Sale (correct at original publish date). *On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. Full payment required by balance due date. **Spread the cost over three interest-free payments. Available when booked online, for holidays under £2,000, departing within ten weeks. ***One free child place per two paying passengers. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply, please see for further details. †Unless otherwisestated. ‡Applicable for all infants under the age of two years on the date of return. Infants are not entitled to a flight seat (they must be seated with a parent or guardian) or a 22kg baggage allowance. §£100 per person off holidays for myJet2 members departing until 15 November 2026. myJet2 members will need to be logged into their account at the time of booking for the discount to automatically apply. Book online, via our app, through our call centre or with your travel agent. Please note the discount is not applied to children travelling on a free child place. Terms and conditions apply, please see for details.
The Independent
26-05-2025
- The Independent
Costa Dorada culture trip: A journey from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to modernist architecture
Beyond the sun-kissed Mediterranean magic of the Costa Dorada – Catalonia's 'Golden Coast', known locally as Costa Daurada – visitors of all ages will find a cultural treasure trove spanning centuries, from Roman ruins to modernist architecture. What's more, with Jet2holidays flying to the Costa Dorada from 12 UK airports and a range of two to five-star accommodation, it's easy to reach this Mediterranean jewel. Jet2holidays is always giving you more, to help make planning and booking as smooth as possible. That goes for the PayPal Pay in 3 interest-free payments** option, 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage, and return transfers† that are included. Look out for Free Child Places***, and infants under two go free‡. Here we delve into just some of the region's fascinating sites and experiences, so you can map out a truly enriching trip… Tarragona: Roman relics and panoramic sea-views Once a vital outpost of the Roman Empire, the city of Tarragona is a stunning blend of ancient ruins and walls, grand vistas and bustling contemporary culture. Every corner promises a glimpse of its rich past nestled between residential streets or office blocks. Start with the Tarragona Amphitheatre and Roman Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. History fans of all ages will love stepping into the seafront amphitheatre, imagining the gladiator battles of centuries before. From here it's a short walk to the forum – the once-vast square which was the epicentre of Roman life here. Nearby, at the 1st-century Roman circus, climb the tower (or cheat and take the lift) to visualise the chariot and horse races which once thundered around this site. For some more air-conditioned historical insights, head to the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona. Packed with Roman artefacts, the museum also offers an immersive taste of life in Roman Tarraco, complete with dress up: fab fun for young historians. After the midday heat has peaked, a walk to the highest point of the city rewards with the breathtaking 14th-century Primatial Cathedral. Built on the site of an old Roman temple, bridging the Romanesque and Gothic periods, it's packed with medieval art and dazzling stained glass. In the summer, the cathedral offers night-time concerts featuring the 16th-century church organ. Reus: Modernist marvels Head inland to the town of Reus, the birthplace of Catalonia's most famous son – the influential architect Antoni Gaudí, known for his quirky and spectacular designs. The whole town is infused with this modernist spirit, promising elegant façades adorned with intricate designs, whimsical wrought-iron details, and colourful ceramic tiles. Couples and families with older children can enjoy a self-guided walking tour of this vibrant city, with 26 stops marked on a map from the tourist information office. Highlights include the Gaudí Centre, a museum dedicated to Gaudí's life and works, which offers an in-depth look at his architectural innovations – how did he pull off those towering walkways? Even the youngest visitors will be in awe of the hands-on exhibits including a special effects room that immerses you in Gaudí's creative world. Other must-sees include the Casa Navàs (pictured above), a remarkable modernist mansion that beautifully showcases the decorative arts of the period. Astonishingly ornate, tit was designed by another great Catalonian architect, Lluís Domènech i Muntaner. It sits proudly in Plaça del Mercadal, Reus' market square, which is packed with people and cultural events throughout the summer. Poblet: archaeological and geological delights A 40-minute drive to the foot of the Prades mountains reveals the Monastery of Santa Maria in Poblet, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond its impressive Gothic exterior lies the Royal Pantheon; young historians will be delighted to learn it houses the tombs of notable figures like King James I. Venture into the nearby village of Espluga de Francoli to explore the Museum of the Cova de Font Major, one of the longest caves in the world at 3.5km, and home to an enchanting underground river system. An immersive exhibit takes visitors back far beyond Roman times in a recreation of Paleolithic life. Castells: A towering tradition In the Costa Dorada, summer means one unique tradition in particular: the Castells, or human tower. Originating in Valls in the 18 th century, Castells are performed at town festivals and on weekends between April and November. An exhilarating display of strength, balance and unity, Castells involve teams working together to create pyramids several stories high. Due to the skill and precision involved, UNESCO has designated Castells as among the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. From sites and experiences to thrilling traditions, the Costa Dorada is a place where past and present collide in unexpected and captivating ways, leaving a lasting impression on you. Every stone, every building, and every human tower tells a story centuries in the making. With Jet2holidays, you can book your trip to the Costa Dorada with lots of package perks thrown in to make getting away even easier. From a low £60 per person deposit* to PayPal Pay in 3 interest-free payments**, 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage per person to return transfers†, it's all included. Families can make the most of Free Child Places***, while infants under two go free‡. And with flights included and the choice of two to five-star hotels, Jet2holidays is always giving you more. For more Costa Dorada travel inspiration, and to find and book your ultimate holiday, visit Jet2holidays. Plus, right now, myJet2 members can save £100 per person§ in The Big Jet2 Price Drop (correct at original publish date). *On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. Full payment required by balance due date. **Spread the cost over three interest-free payments. Available when booked online, for holidays under £2,000, departing within ten weeks. ***One free child place per two paying passengers. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply, please see for further details. †Unless otherwise stated. ‡Applicable for all infants under the age of two years on the date of return. Infants are not entitled to a flight seat (they must be seated with a parent or guardian) or a 22kg baggage allowance. §£100 per person off holidays for myJet2 members departing until 15 November 2026. myJet2 members will need to be logged into their account at the time of booking for the discount to automatically apply. Book online, via our app, through our call centre or with your travel agent. Please note the discount is not applied to children travelling on a free child place. Terms and conditions apply, please see for details.
The Guardian
10-05-2025
- Climate
- The Guardian
Toxic chlorine cloud near Barcelona confines more than 160,000 indoors
Spanish authorities have told more than 160,000 people near Barcelona to stay indoors after a fire at an industrial warehouse released a toxic cloud of chlorine over a wide area. The blaze, in the coastal city of Vilanova i la Geltrú, south of Barcelona, started at dawn on Saturday in a warehouse storing pool cleaning products, the regional fire service said. 'If you are in the zone that is affected do not leave your home or your place of work,' the Civil Protection Service said on social media. It advised people to keep doors and windows closed in the at-risk area, which stretched across five local districts along the coast, from Vilanova i la Geltrú to the village of Calafell, near Tarragona. No casualties had been reported so far, the fire service said on X, adding that it had deployed a large number of units to bring the fire under control. It said it was 'monitoring the column [of gas] caused by the blaze for changes and for its toxic levels'. The authorities closed roads in the area and shut train stations to prevent people approaching the affected area. 'It is very difficult for chlorine to catch fire but when it does so it is very hard to put it out,' the warehouse owner Jorge Vinuales Alonso told local radio station Rac1. He said the fire may have been caused by a lithium battery. Sign up to Headlines Europe A digest of the morning's main headlines from the Europe edition emailed direct to you every week day after newsletter promotion The mayor of Vilanova, Juan Luis Ruiz López, told the public TV station TVE that now the fire had been extinguished the authorities expected 'this toxic cloud will start to dissipate and we can lift the measures currently imposed'.
Al Arabiya
10-05-2025
- Climate
- Al Arabiya
Toxic chlorine cloud in Spain forces thousands indoors
Spanish authorities told more than 160,000 people near Barcelona to stay indoors on Saturday after a fire at an industrial property released a toxic cloud of chlorine over a wide area. The blaze, in the coastal city of Vilanova i la Geltru just south of Barcelona, took hold of a building storing pool cleaning products, the regional fire service said. 'If you are in the zone that is affected do not leave your home or your place of work,' the Civil Protection service said on social media. The at-risk area stretched across five municipalities from Vilanova i la Geltru to the village of Calafell, near Tarragona. 'No casualties' had been reported, the fire service said on X, adding that a large number of units deployed to the scene had brought the fire under control. It said it was 'monitoring the column (of gas) caused by the blaze for changes and for its toxic levels.' 'It is very difficult for chlorine to catch fire but when it does so it is very hard to put it out,' the owner of the industrial property, Jorge Vinuales Alonso, told local radio station Rac1. He said the cause of the fire might have been a lithium battery.
