The Costa Dorada in Spain was recently named one of the best short-haul holiday destinations for October – and it’s not hard to see why
Fancy dodging the brisk British autumn for some sun this October half-term?
Southern Europe is just a short hop away and still basks in the warmth, perfect for those looking to catch some late-season rays.
While island getaways like the Balearics and Canaries are often the go-to, mainland Spain holds its own with the Costa Dorada coastal gem that rivals any island paradise. With temperatures soaring up to 22C even in October, it’s an ideal spot for a half-term break.
Nestled south of Barcelona, the Costa Dorada shines with the lively resort town of Salou, the historic charms of Tarragona, and the gastronomic haven of Cambrils. It’s on the rise as a holiday hotspot and has even been crowned by Which? as one of the top short-haul destinations for October, alongside city breaks in Vienna and Athens, reports the Manchester Evening News.
READ MORE: Holiday spot that’s 28C in October named most ‘in-demand’ place for UK tourists
Which? praised the region, saying: “As well as being blessed with 125 miles of beaches, Costa Dorada is home to the Roman town of Tarragona, which has an old town and a seaside amphitheatre. Barcelona and the Montserrat mountains are also an easy day trip if you hire a car.”
They added: “Salou has Blue Flag beaches and Spain’s biggest theme park, Port Aventura. Another popular resort is Sitges an attractive town with smart shops and chic restaurants. You can enjoy six hours of sunshine a day in October, while the sea is still warm enough for swimming.”
The allure of Costa Dorada lies in its affordability. Skyscanner lists flights departing from Manchester Airport to Reus on October 19 starting at £45 one way, with return flights on the 26th beginning at £92 (additional charges may apply for luggage and seat selection).
Tui offers round-trip flights from October 19 to Friday October 25 starting at £144 per person, which includes a 10kg hand luggage and an underseat bag, based on a family of four. Jet2 provides round-trip flights from Saturday October 19th to Saturday October 26 for a total of £882.30 for a family of four with two children aged 6 and 8, equating to £220.58 per person, including 10kg hand luggage.
Salou, the vibrant heart of Costa Dorada, boasts stunning beaches, a plethora of restaurants, and breathtaking sea views – particularly at sunset. The town’s size makes it perfect for families, but if you’re craving some city life, Barcelona is just a 90-minute train ride away.
A must-visit for families is Port Aventura World, Spain’s largest theme park. It houses six distinct adventure worlds, transporting visitors from China to the American west.
The park also features Ferrari Land, a unique attraction in Europe.
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