Villamarina Hotel & Salou Blog

Train travel from the Villamarina Hotel in Salou

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:26:00 +0000

Here in the Villamarina Hotel in Salou we try to ensure we are offering you all the information you will need to ensure you have a fantastic all inclusive holiday. This all inclusive hotel is situated in the old part of Salou just minutes away from the Main train station making this the ideal location for those of you who want to explore. Or it may be that you are a train spotter and would like to watch the trains come through.

The main destination people like to visit when coming to Salou is Barcelona and this could not be easier. The following trains make this so easy and economical at this time for you to do this cost effectively:

The Regional Express train leaves Salou station at the following time 7.07, 8.43, 10.13, 19.43 and 20.39 taking approx 1h30mins to get to Barcelona Sants Station.
The Catalunya Express train leaves at the following times 14.13. 16.45, 18.18, taking approx 1h20mins to get to Barcelona Sants Station.
The Regional Train leaves Salou station at the following times 11.42, 17.36, 18.52, 20.20, taking approx 1h 20 mins to get to Barcelona Sants.
Coming back there is a train approx every 2 hours from 06.30am – 21.00pm.
Return Tickets from 7 – 11€.

Allowing the freedom to do things in your own time and see what you want to see. You can also visit other destination within the Costa Dorada or surrounding areas, very easily. The Villamarina Hotel in Salou is a fantastic base to visit Salou, the Costa Dorada and Barcelona.

Salou beaches

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:26:00 +0000

The Villamarina Hotel in Salou is situated just a 10 minute walk away from the main beach, however this short walk is well worth it when you see the beautiful promenade and beach. The beaches of Salou are without a doubt the resort’s main attraction. The fine, golden sand, the clear, shallow waters – the sheer beauty- have captivated, and are still captivating, visitors from far and wide.

Salou coastline is varied. Wide expanses of golden sand blend in with beachfront hotels and residences, while other more intimate beaches are sheltered by pine trees and pretty inlets and coves. Salou has got eight different beaches.

The main beaches in Salou are:

La playa de Levant:
This is longest and the most popular beach in the resort of Salou 1200 metres long and 140 metres wide. It goes from the harbour (Club Naútico Salou) on the west, to a place known as the “cliffs” on the east.

During the summer, an area is set aside for several sport activities. In the old days, when mixed bathing was not allowed, this was known as the “men’s beach”. In the summer there are dancing musical fountains on the promenade of this beach which are well worth the visit, with the Villamarina Club out of all the hotels in Salou been one of the closet to this spectacular attraction.

La playa de ponent:
This is more than one kilometre long. This beach goes from Cambrils to Salou’s harbour.
This was known as the “ladies beach”.

La playa dels capellans:
This is a little beach in the centre of Salou. It’s 220 metres long and can be reached from Brussels street. It edge is on the cliffs.

La playa dels llenguadets:
This is a little cove that can only be reached on foot from Tortosa street. It is very beautiful because it’s surrounded by nature

La playa larga:
It is surrounded by pine trees and nature. It is 600 metres long and you can reach it on foot by Replanells street, close by the road to La Pineda. This a very beautiful beach.

The Villamarina Hotel in Salou offer all inclusive holidays in a family friendly atmosphere, with easy acces to main attractions in Salou.

Good bye summer 2009

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:31:00 +0000

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who choose the Hotel Villamarina Club out of all the hotels in Salou as their summer 2009 holiday destination here in the Costa Dorada, and we hope that you enjoyed your stay here with us.

The Villamarina Club endeavors to improve its all inclusive facilities year on year and we will be looking at ensuring 2010 is even better out of all the hotels in Salou we aim to be the number 1 all inclusive hotel in the Costa Dorada.

For now we are left with the great memories of the Villamarina and Salou for 2009, we have had parties, great shows, bucking bronco, terror tunnel and much more, along with you fantastic customers, staff and weather.

Thank you once again and hope to see you here for your family holiday in Summer 2010. Keep yourself up to date with all news and events taking place out of all the hotels in Salou the Villamarina will ensure you come first and that your opinion counts. Keep updated on our Facebook page for offer, news and friendship. Sweepstake coming soon for a free 4 night stay in April on Facebook.

Visit Andorra from Salou

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:31:00 +0000

The Villamarina in Salou gives you a great base to visit this beautiful principality Andorra huddled between mountain peaks in the spectacular Pyrenees just 4 hours from Salou. On the way there, as we go up into the mountains we experience some breathtaking and fantastic scenery on Catalunya and the Costa Dorada. In the morning you can even see the beautiful sun, rising up over the mountains. As you go through Montblanc, and pass many acres of grape vines that produce the finest wines and champagne of the region of Catalunya

You will also go passed the lake in which (you can see the rooftops of houses from ancient times that are buried under the lake) when there is a shortage of water you can see the rooftops of houses from ancient times that are buried under the lake.

Andorra is a money saver’s paradise. It is free of the taxes that are applied to neighbouring France and Spain so if you fancy some early Christmas shopping for your alcohol, cigarettes, electrical goods, perfume or clothes and you would like to visit two countries in one day, having a great time shopping and experiencing some breathtaking scenery, then this is the place for you!

The Villamarina is your ideal all inclusive family holiday destination, giving you a fantastic base to explore Salou, Costa Dorada and Andorra. If you fancy exploring a different part of Salou The Festival Village in Cap Salou offers large all inclusive apartments also as a fantastic base to ensure you also get all you need on your all inclusive family holiday.

New in the Villamarina for 2009

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 08:24:00 +0000

Interview with the Manager of Hotel Villamarina
By Timmy Tiger

As we are coming to the start of our season I thought it necessary to find out exactly what has been going on in the Villamarina 3 star all inclusive hotel and to see what is new for summer 2009.

1. As an all inclusive hotel what is your main priority for summer 2009?
Our main priority is to ensure we are offering our customers value for money all inclusive holiday in Salou.

2. How have you ensured you are offering what the customer wants?
Every year we ask customer to complete questionnaires, and by reading these and taking everyone’s comments and suggestion on bored we hope to have improved our product and service to them to ensure this all inclusive family hotel is exactly what our customers are looking for.

3. What suggestions have you implemented in to the villamarina?
There was many suggestions made in the questionnaire and we have taken the following and implemented them

· Customers commented that the showers were not good and would fall off
For this summer all rooms have new shower heads and supports to resolve this issue.

· Insufficient Toilets for the amount of people.
We have created new toilets by the bar terrace area and on the roof top solarium giving the hotel now 4 sets of toilets in the main areas.

· Pool areas are too small.
We have extended the pool terrace area of one of the pools to create more space for our customers to relax and enjoy their all inclusive holiday.

· Kids club, too small and not visable
The location of the kids club has been changed to the area of the play park; we have built a little wooden house, were all the activities will commence from, creating a more spacious environment.

· There is nowhere for the adults to get away.
This was our biggest project to try and complete. The villa marina as you know is a very family orientated hotel with lots of children as we are a family all inclusive hotel, however we also have many guest that are just as important who come that do not have children, so to be able to offer them a relaxing all inclusive holiday the whole of the roof top of the main building has been transformed in to an adults only area with a bar, 2 Jacuzzis and lots of sunbathing space. This will also be open on evening to enjoy a relaxing drink.

Can you tell me about Villamarina all inclusive apartments?

The Villamarina is now offering large 2 bedroom apartments on all inclusive giving customers the best of both worlds.
The apartments have all been painted, all have washing machine and we will be putting air con in to the main room.
These all inclusive apartments are ideal for groups of friends or larger families.

What else have you changed for summer 2009?

Of course every year we look at the entertainment programmed for new shows and activities, which we have also done for this summer, we have some great shows lined up.
One other thing we have looked at and arranged is the big inflatable’s coming in to the swimming pools in high season for 1 day per week, for all the family to enjoy
The whole of this all inclusive hotel has had a face lift, with all the rooms been painted and the hotel in general has had lots of small changes and repairs made
Another big transformation is the entrance to the hotel has been changed, with new flooring and a slightly different design making the hotel look different and more sophisticated especially when illuminated in an evening.
The luggage room has been made bigger giving more storage space for suitcases.

How to you think this summer will go? And what advice do you have for customers with regards to the recession?

We are hoping that we have a summer the same as we do every year, the Villamarina welcomes everyone and our priority is to offer good value for money all inclusive family holidays, with a friendly atmosphere.
We understand that this summer maybe particular hard for people as it will be for the hotel. And this is why we have to ensure we are offering value for money all inclusive holiday, to ensure this helps reduce the cost for people whilst on holiday in Salou, especially with the Pound against the Euro not been very strong.

Do you have a lot of the same staff coming back? Do I still have a Job?

The villamarina try’s to ensure we have the same staff come back year on year to ensure this all inclusive hotel in salou is offering a friendly environment for our customers.
With regards to you Timmy, what can I say: everyone loves you so of course you are coming back?

Do you have anything else to add?

Our ambition is to ensure that everyone has a fantastic holiday here at this 3* all inclusive hotel in salou and we thank everyone who has already booked to come visit us this summer, and welcome everyone to the Villamarina.

All Inclusive apartments in Salou

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:07:00 +0000

Hotel Villa Marina is now able to offer you all inclusive apartments in Salou.

Villa Marina’s large 2 bedroom apartments are located within a 2 minute walk from the main hotel and its facilities, offering larger families a great opportunity to enjoy an all inclusive holiday in Salou.

The large 2 bedroom apartments are fully equipped with Kitchen, living room, bathroom, large balcony, television, air conditioning and 2 bedrooms, sleeping up to 6 people making them the perfect choice for large families and groups of friends.

1 bedroom has a double bed or 2 singles, 1 bedroom has 2 single beds or bunk beds, the living room has a sofa bed and a camp bed still leaving you with lots of space to relax and be comfortable.

By choosing to stay in our all inclusive apartments you will receive 3 meals per day, all soft drinks, local wine, beer and spirits, snacks throughout the day, ice creams and a full entertainment programme for adults and children to enjoy.

All inclusive holidays are fantastic value for money, with not having to worry about extra cost for your food and drink, eurozone prices and credit crunch.

This all inclusive hotel ensures you have everything that you need food, drink, and entertainment for all the family.

The Villa marina all inclusive apartment are offering you the best of both worlds, you have self catering facilities and still all your food and drink included at the same time.

Having self catering facilities is ideal if you are travelling with a baby and need a fridge for the milk, if you have medicine which needs to be kept cool or you are simply a large family who does not want to be separated in to 2 hotel rooms.

The Hotel Villa Marina can offer you hotel rooms or 2 bedroom apartments on all inclusive board basis.

For a great all inclusive holiday in Salou have a look at the Villa Marina web page for prices and more details on how you can book your all inclusive holiday with us here at the Villa Marina in Salou

Holidays in Salou

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:11:00 +0000

Introduction to Salou
Salou is situated in the Costa Dorada between Cambrils and La Pineda, this resort host fine sandy beaches with calm seas. Salou is home to the number 1 attraction in the Costa Dorada of Port Aventura theme park, making it a great holiday destination.

Why go to Salou
Salou is a great for family holidays with great beaches water sports, good shopping, lots of local and British restaurants to suit everyone’s tastes.
Fun days out at the theme Park or the Costa caribe water park for all the family to enjoy.
There are lots of family bars and night bars to cater for everyone’s needs all within easy reach of each other.
Salou is only 1 and half hours from the amazing city of Barcelona, 20 mins away from Tarragona and Reus, and 15 mins away from Cambrils and La Pineda.

Who goes to Salou?
Salou is very popular with British tourists as well as Spaniards. Salou has wide appeal attracting visitors of all ages. Families, couples and young people will all find enjoyment in Salou.

How to get to Salou
The nearest Airport to Salou is Reus just 10 mins away, all major tour operators fly in to this resort in the summer period. If you are more of an independent traveller, Ryanair fly from several British airports daily.
Barcelona Airport is 1 hour 30 mins away and has a lot more budget airlines to choose from. Trains are very easy from Barcelona to Salou.

Salou Nightlife
Salou has the liveliest nightlife on the Costa Dorada with its many bars, clubs, karaoke bars and discos, where the young and energetic can party into the small hours.
It also has many family bars offering live entertainemnt and caberets for all the family to enjoy.

When to go to Salou
The most popular time to holiday in Salou is from April to October when the temperature ranges from a very pleasant 18 degrees rising to 30 degrees in the height of summer. High season months can be very busy. The outside months can be prone to light rain.

Salou shopping
There are plenty of wide ranging opportunities for shopping in Salou. Traditional souvenirs and gifts such as leather goods and ceramics can be found at the market in the old town centre every Monday. There is also a good supply of boutiques for fashions and other specialist shops. The most serious shoppers may be tempted by Barcelona, only one hour away by train or Tarragona or Reus just 20 mins away by public transport.

Salou eating
Salou has a wide variety of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. Traditional Spanish restaurants, fast food, and many british bars offering you the taste of home. All the restaurantrs in Salou offer you a warm welcome.

Where to stay in Salou
Salou is home to many hotels and Apartment however , if you are looking for a good value for money holiday and not having to worry about bringing too much spending money then have a look at the Villa Marina 3* all inclusive hotel. This family hotel offers you unlimited local produced drinks, soft and alcoholic, breakfast, lunch and dinner, snacks throughout the day and a full day and nightime entertainment programme for all the family to enjoy. All this included in the price. The Villa Marina was the first hotel in Salou to offer All Inclusive.

Family Bars in Salou

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:57:00 +0000

One of the main questions when going on holidays is where can I get excellent value for money British food and entertainment. Salou is home to lots of British style bars and Pub, and one group of bars to mention offers you exactly that, and are all in easy reach from the Villa Marina.

Sinatra’s, situated on Calle Vendrell in the centre of Salou offers fantastic food from your Sunday Lunch with all trimmings, to curries, stir fries, Fish and Chips, children’s menu, full English breakfast with Mugs of tea or coffee and much more.
Sinatra also gives you the added bonus of a live show and entertainment for all the family to enjoy in an evening.
Sinatra’s is the furthest away from the Villa marina but still only 5 mins in a taxi.

Whetherspoons, situated on Carles Buigas in the centre, also offers a choice of great cafe style food, from, snacks, sandwiches to full British and international meals, and you will not be hungry after leaving here.

Titanic – situated just off Plaza Europa a fantastic cabaret bar of an evening with a whole range of shows from Elvis, Madonna, Comedians, Disco and your resident DJ starting your night with quizzes and Bingo!
Choose to sit on the top deck, lower deck or even the captains table and choose from a wide range of good quality meals.
All this is just 10 mins away from the Villa Marina.

Escape on to the sun terrace of O’Brien’s just situated next door to the Titanic and enjoy a jug of beer or sangria as well as a wide variety of snacks and meals.

Football mad! , pop in to the Shamrock and enjoy this fun sports bar with a cold cider or pint of Guinness, with a great atmosphere of a typical Irish Pub.

Black Bull – fantastic sun terrace to watch the world walk by, you can enjoy a variety of snacks. Football matches will be on and if you’re missing the soaps, they show them all.

This chain of bars is well run with friendly enthusiastic staffs that are always willing to chat and ensure you get exactly what you are looking for.
All of them show the latest football matches, sporting events, soaps and Sky news to keep you up to date whilst on your holiday.
For good value for money family orientated bars with quality food made from British Products, open from 09.00 – 02.00am make sure you pay them a visit.

Holidays in Salou - Frequently Asked Questions

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:52:00 +0000

Can I buy baby milk in the Costa Dorada?
Local super markets sell baby foods and milks the most popular makes here in Salou is Nestlé, other baby milks and equivalents to UK brands can be purchased at local pharmacies.

Where can I exchange money?
The Villa Marina reception does exchange money and traveller’s cheques; the hotel is in an area with several banks where money can be withdrawn direct from your account or exchange. Banks are only open 08.00-14.00 Monday to Friday.

What do I do if I need Medical Treatment or Assistance?
Depending what insurance cover you have, depends on the best course of action for you. Both medical systems are very good.
If you have private holiday insurance cover, there are several medical companies that visit the hotel and have the call out facility these are recommended by Tour Operators, you will have to pay the first 70 euros for a doctor call out.
If you are only travelling with your E1-11 then you are covered by the National Clinic, which is a 5 mins walk from the Villa Marina. There will also be a 50 euro administration charge to see a doctor.
The response time and treatment is of a high standard here in the Costa Dorada.

How much is a Taxi from Reus Airport?
There are lots of taxis situated directly outside the airport and cost approx 30 euros to Salou. The Journey time from Reus Airport to the Villa Marina Hotel is 10 mins.
There is also a public bus service from the airport with Plana autocars; this would take you slightly longer.

What type of clothing do I need?
April, May are coolers months and would recommend bring your summer clothes and a few warmer clothes, these months can be prone to rain
June, the weather and temperature starts to increase and would recommend putting a light jacket in to your suitcase as could be a little cooler in an evening.
July and August – hottest months, light summer clothing.
September, October, start to cool down again as April and May.
You can never predict the weather and I would recommend that you always pack within reason for the good and bad weather.

Can I buy toiletries whilst I am there?
The Villamarina is a 2 min walk away from a large supermarket intermerche which sells all toiletries, from hair care, toothpastes, moisturisers, soaps, nappies, baby wipes etc
By purchasing products in resort helps you with your luggage weight allowance.

Can I get my Medication in Spain?
If you run out of your medication whilst here in the Costa Dorada you will require as note from your GP advising what medication it is you require and then would need to take this to the Medical centre.

What essentials will I need?
Sun cream, after sun, Insect repellent, 2 pin adaptor for plug sockets, however all these can be purchased in resort.

How much Spending money will I need?
The greatest thing about the Villa Marina been all inclusive is this cuts down the amount of money you need to bring with you, as all your food and drink is included.
It all depends on what you plan to do whilst you are here, if you want to go on trips and excursions well ensure you bring money for this. Excursions normally cost between 20 – 45 euros per adult and 15 – 35 euros for a child.
Average cost for a soft drink is 1.50 euros, half of beer is between 1.50-2.00 euros, and a pint beer is 3.50 – 4.50 euros, a meal out averages on 5-10 euros per person not including drinks.

How much duty free can I bring back?
There are no longer any duty-free allowances for journeys within the European Union (EU). Instead, you can bring back an unlimited amount of goods from travel in any EU country, as long as it is for your personal use or as a gift. In practice if you are over 17 you will be allowed up to 3200 cigarettes, 10 litres of spirits, 90 litres of wine and 110 litres of beer. If you bring in more you will have to persuade customs that it is for personal use. There are further allowances for different tobacco products and alcoholic drinks.

Do the shops close in an afternoon?
In the summer period the shops normally open 9-13 and 16-20 or even as late as 22.00. You will find that in the main tourist side that the majority of the shops stay open all day.
If you was to visit the near by cities such as Tarragona and Reus you will find that the shops do close for Siesta.

What religion is practised in Costa Dorada?
Freedom of religion is guaranteed by the Spanish Constitution, although the majority of the population is Catholic. Other religions also practised in Spain include Islam, Judaism, Protestantism, and Hinduism, all of which have places where to conduct their rituals.

What Language is spoken in Costa Dorada?
The language for the Catalonia area is Catalan; however the majority of the people do speak Spanish.

Car Hire Costa Dorada

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:18:00 +0000

Driving overseas is a great way to explore, Salou and the Costa dorada you can hire a car any time. The rules of the road can be very different, so it is important that you obey them.
Hiring a car enables you to visit more towns, villages and attractions within the Costa Dorada area at your own leisure.

The Costa Dorada is famous for its beaches, resorts and theme parks. With its many exciting sites to explore and easy access too many more, this area has become one of the most popular vacation destinations in Spain.

Easily the largest tourist draw to Salou is Port Aventura, a theme park. This theme park is filled with restaurants, shows, games, and of course rides. Featured, and dominating the skyline for miles around, is one of the largest rollercoaster’s in Europe, the terrifying and exciting Dragon Khan.

Salou contains several relics that stand as testament to its rich history. During the 13th century, King Jaume I conquered this city from the Moors and is still revered today. This beach town is awash in activities for holiday makers. Beyond the beautiful beach and its sunbathing and swimming options, Salou offers parasailing, golf, tennis, cycling, horseback riding in addition to its great restaurants, family Bars and clubs. Another option is the Aquopolis Water Park or Caribe Water Park. These parks have waterslides for all the family.

Salou is also well placed as a base for exploring other interesting places. Not far from Salou and easily reached by car is the town of Figueres which features the Salvador Dali Museum. It is also near the famous city of Barcelona just 1 hour by car with its magnificent Gaudi architecture and Montserrat spectacular mountain monastery. A bit closer to Salou you will find Tarragona which has many Roman ruins including the amphitheater.

You can also experience Cambrils a small fishing village just a 15 min drive away from Salou, and watch the fishermen bring home their live catch on an evening. By hiring a car you experience the Delta Ebro, with its fantastic scenery and fishing, just 25 mins down the coast.

Hiring a car gives you the freedom and choice of planning endless activities and sights for your trip to the Costa Dorada. Villa Marina is in the perfect location for you to go and explore the Costa Dorada by car.

3 well known car hire companies here in the Costa Dorada are Hertz, Europcar and Avis, and the average price for a small car for 1 week is from 230 – 300 euros.

Tarragona Tourist Information

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:11:00 +0000

Tarragona is located on the Mediterranean coast, 100 KM south of Barcelona and 9 Km from salou, Spain, in the region of Catalunya and is part of the United Nation educational scientific and cultural organisation (UNESCO).
While earlier settlements may have inhabited the area, the first occupation of Tarragona is attributed to Gneus Scipio, who founded a Roman military camp here in 218 B.C. It grew quickly and was named a colony of Rome in 45 B.C. by Julius Ceasar. Tarragona is considered the most important Roman town in Spain.

Tarragona - Getting There by Train / Bus:
The Tarragona train station is in the Plaza Pedrera. There are many to from Salou and Barcelona. The station at Tarragona is close to the port and to the main street, the Rambla Nova.
The Bus station is situated at the bottom of the Rambla and bus run approx every 15-20 mins from salou

Tarragona Attractions:
Amphitheatre Romà - The Roman Amphitheatre is located near the sea, just off the Rambla Nova.
Tarragona’s has a 12th century cathedral. Inside is the Museum Diocesà, with a collection of Catalan art you can visit for 2.40 Euros.
The Archaeological Museum - At Plaça Del Rei 5, overlooking the sea. Free on Tuesdays.
Museum Necròpolis - The Necropolis Museum outside town is one of the most important Christian burial sites in Spain, used in the 3-5th centuries.

You will find some interesting bars and seafood restaurants in the Port area near the marina. A recommend place is the de la Font area for its lively cafe and tapas scene. Remember that Spaniards eat dinner very late in the evening. Often 9pm or later therefore may be quiet up till this point.

Tarragona is also a great place to get some shopping with many high street names on the Rambla and a commercial centre right next to the bus station in Tarragona, besides being a fine city full with Roman ruins and good restaurants, is a relatively cheap place to visit whilst staying at the Villa Marina in Salou, and is just 20 mins away.
Building human pyramids is a Catalonian sport. Castellers have been building human pyramids here, some as high as 5 story buildings, for hundreds of hears. You can see them in action in Tarragona during the Sant Magi festival in mid-August
Tarragona is a great place to visit whilst staying in Salou with a mountain of history and sights worth seeing

Golf in the Costa Dorada

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:59:00 +0000

There are several golf courses in the Costa Dorada for you to enjoy at your leisure and still enjoy a family holiday at the same time.

The newest and nearest one been Port Aventura Golf which is just 10 mins away from the Villa marina Hotel.

The new 45 hole Port Aventura golf complex opened in June 2008 and officialy opened in september by the renowned Australian Golfer Greg Norman and was involved in the design and development of the North and Middle golf course along with Alfonso Vidar and Magi Sarda who designed the south course.

The North Course –

Has 18 holes and is a flat course with wet lands situated in a protected nature area, with fantastic lakes. It is the most technical course of the three and the biggest challenge for players. The course has a Mediterranean style club house.

The middle Course –

Also designed by Greg Norman has 9 holes. This is an easy course and perfect for intermediate players. Been the middle course this course can be compiled with 9 holes from eight the north or south course as well.

The South Course –

As mentioned was designed by Alfonso Vidar and Magi Sarda it has 18 holes with gently sloping grounds. It is made up of pinewood and has fantastic and beautiful sea views. Holes 13, 17 and 18 have been built in to nature quarries that make the scenario for Golf that is unique to this part of Spain. The South course also has a club house, changing rooms and buggy hire is situated on this course.

Reus Aiguesverds Gold Course

This golf course has 18 holes and is a rather flat course set in Olive groves and holm oaks.
This course is made up of placed greens and water hazards, one green been almost entirely surrounded by water.
The course has a beautiful club house which was converted from a Masia and is ideal for people who may have walking difficulties.
This golf course is approx 20 mins away from the Hotel Villa Marina.

Golf Bonmont terres Noves

Wonderful Mediterranean views and a mountainous backdrop have made this into one of the finest courses in Catalonia with 18 holes. Founded in 1990 & designed by Robert Trent Jones, Bonmont Championship Golf Course is a joy to play and a real challenge for any golfer due to the natural landscape, 90 bunkers and some testing water hazards.
This course is located in Mont Roig just 30 mins away from the Hotel Villa Marina.

Costa Dorada Gold Club

This the Costa Dorada golf course offers 18 holes and is a challenge, variety and beauty to any golfer. Founded in 1983 it was the first club in the Tarragona region and is rated as one of the finest in Catalonia. It blends beautifully with the scenic valley of olive trees, pine, willows and palm trees.
This golf course is situated 10 mins away from Tarragona and approx 20-25 mins from the Hotel Villa Marina.
The clubhouse is designed in traditional Catalan style.

Salou tourist information

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:24:00 +0000

Salou is particularly favoured by British tourists. Salou is served by Reus airport which is only 15 minutes drive away. Salou is located in the Spanish region of Catalunya on the Costa Dorada.

Salou is now one of the main tourist centres in Spain. Along its extensive coast you will find beautiful beaches and coves with fine sand. Salou offers an exceptional climate and is the ideal place with its shallow waters for enjoying the sea in a family holiday. Many different kinds of water sports are on offer in Salou, such as jet skiing, banana boat rides and paragliding.

Salou's Levante beach is one of the most well known on the Costa Dorada. The Blue Flag Levante Beach in Salou has showers and toilets, loungers, parasols several large car parks and snack bars on the beach. There is a big promenade with shops and restaurants surrounded by palm trees. The sailing club separates it from Poniente Beach. This promenade is also home to the amazing magical fountains. This beach is just a 10 min walk away from the Hotel Villa Marina.

In Salou you can discover lovely landscapes or spend an exciting day at Port Aventura theme park. Local cuisine is based on excellent sea food and is well worth a try. If you are not a sea food lover there are plenty of British restaurants offering you the taste of home. If you are looking for nightlife Salou is home to many family bars, late night bars and Disco's.

Salou is situated a few kilometres from the Tarragona which is also well worth a visit. Salou spreads over a broad coastal strip in which wide beaches, like those of Llevant or Platja Llarga, alternate with quiet coves of fine, golden sand. Salou is ideal for a sun and beach family holidays.

A unique way to see Barcelona - By Helicopter

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:07:00 +0000

Been to the Costa Dorada or the Villa Marina before? Well you will know the Villa Marina all inclusive hotel is only 1 hour 30 mins away from Barcelona by train. The train station is a 5 mins walk away from the hotel.

There is no better way to see Barcelona the capital of Catalunya from a different and exciting view for all the family.

Cathelicopters and Barcelona Helicopters are helicopter service companies in Barcelona, that offers a unique opportunity to see the city from a different perspective. This is a fantastic day for you to take home those different photos and enjoy the thrill of flying above Barcelona.
At least 4 persons minimum, 5 maximum, must reserve in order that the trip is carried out, it needs to be reserved with time.

BCN Costa Tour:
Helipad, WTC, Commercial Port, Olympic Port, Olympic Villa, Barcelona Beach, Forum, Besos River and back to the Helipad.

Approx 45.00 euros

BCN Skytour:
Helipad, WTC, Commercial Port, Olympic Port, Olympic Village, Barcelona Beach, Forum, Agbar Tower, Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Tibidabo, Camp Nou, Olympic Ring of Montjuïc and Helipad

Approx 80.00 euros

BCNSkytour + Montserrat:
Tour: Recorrido: Helipad, WTC, Commercial Port, Olympic Port, Olympic Villa, Barceloneta Beach, Forum, Agbar Tower, Sagrada Familia, Eixample, Park Güell, Tibidabo, Montserrat, Camp Nou, Olympic Ring of Montjuïc and Helipad.

Approx 240.00 euros

The Villa Marina is the ideal location for you to go off and explore attractions at your own leisure in the area of Costa Dorada and we will give you the help and information you require for you to experience new and exciting adventures.

What better way than to have an all inclusive holiday here in this all inclusive hotel and save your spending money for exciting trips like this one.

See Catalunya at a different level !

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 11:37:00 +0000

Catalunya in Miniature - Be bigger than Barcelona !

This is a unique different way to see all the sights of Barcelona and Catalunya whilst staying at the Villa Marina. Catalunya in Miniature is the worlds largest tourist and cultural complex in miniature in the world, and the only one in Spain. lets the visitors know the monuments, buildings and the most representative achievements of the Princedom.

This is the ideal day out for all the family having everything close to hand and within easy walking distance. Catalunya in Miniature gives you the history and the education on the area without having to walk too far.

The easiest way to get to Catalunya in Minature from the Villa Marina would be by means of a hire car or the train in to Barcelona then a public bus. The majority of customers who stay in the Villa Marina are traveling with children and will find that by visitng Catalunya in Minature it is a more relaxing experience then travelling around Barcelona city to see all the sights.

Barcelona Tour Bus

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 11:28:00 +0000

HOP ON AND HOP OFF TOUR BUS OF BARCELONA

Fancy coming to the Villa Marina in salou but want to visit Barcelona?, The best and most independent way to do this is by utilizing the Barcelona City Hop-on Hop-off Tour which has three different tour routes to explore the city! See the major sights aboard an open-top double-decker bus, and with over 44 stops to choose from.

You decide where to hop on and hop off around the city depending on which attraction / sight you want to visit. Spend as much or as little time at places of interest before jumping aboard for the next stop - the choice is yours!

You are given a printed information guide about each stop when you buy your ticket as well as a discount voucher for entrance to museums and main sights which is always a bonus. You can hop-on and off as many times as you like at any of the 44 stops. Tickets cost approx 20 euros for 1 day and 26 euros for 2 days , childrens (4-12) 12 and 16 euros.

The easiest access to get to Barcelona from the Villa Marina hotel would be by train. Train takes 1.30 mins and costs 12 euros return. The train station is a 5 min walk away from the Villa Marina Hotel. If you are not confident if going to Barcelona independently, then ask your representative for organised trips. Majority of people say by doing this independently you get to see a lot more of Barcelona, and specifically you choose what you do and do not want to visit.

Fishing Spots not far from the Villa Marina in the Costa Dorada

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 11:48:00 +0000

Fancy going fishing for the Day whilst here in the Villa Marina

The river Ebro is Spain’s longest river rising approx 50 miles and flowing 400 miles and emerges at a large delta 100 miles south of Barcelona.

There are several locations for fishing such as Tortosa, Amposta and the Deltebre, and there are organisations where you can hire a boat for the day with a guide to ensure you get a great catch, all areas within 30-40 mins drive from the Villa Marina Hotel.
Prices vary from 100-200 euros for a boat and guide for 8 hours (boats normally accept 3 anglers) . Catfish is very popular in these areas and can weigh up to an incredible 160 lbs.

The easiest access to the fishing points would by hiring a car from the Villa Marina or taking part in an organised excursion where you would be collected from the Villa Marina.

This is the ideal out for the boys or ladies whilst the rest of your family sit back and enjoy their all inclusive facilities at the Villa Marina

To enable you to fish in the Ebro you will be required to get a fishing licence which can be obtained online on the following web page www.gencat.cat cost of the licence is approx 15 euros.

Tortosa – Fishing here is concentrated in a number of pools and eddy’s created by fast flowing waters, along with some slacks and slow margin drifts.

Amposta – The water in this area is deeper, sluggish and more coloured but has been known for specimens over 160lbs.

Deltebre – An area of river which is wide, deep and nearly untapped, and the fish are mainly concentrated in the reed lines. There are some really monsters to be caught in this river.

Weather and best time to go fishing

Low season March / April the river will run high and coloured which makes catfish relatively easy to catch and locate water temperature will be cool 10 degrees rising gradually throughout April. This is the time of season when the female catfish are carrying masses of spawn.

Mid season May/ June the river is often still running high, the water will start to drop gradually with lovely sunny days and the water temperature hitting 20 degrees.

High season – July / August provides a consistent sport even in the heat of the day with water temperatures around 25 degrees.

If you like fishing and beautiful scenery then this is a great opportunity to relax and participate in this sporting event.

For more information please do not hesitate in contacting the Villa Marina who will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.

Why choose The Costa Dorada and the Hotel Villamarina

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 11:03:00 +0000

In the south of Catalonia, Costa Dorada, dotted with seaside villages such as La Pineda, Salou, and Cambrils, is an area of long fishing tradition and Salou is home to the Hotel Villa Marina Club.

The long beaches are filled with fine sand. The Costa Dorada is the most popular family holiday destination. Suitable for families, and couples the Hotel Villa Marina Club making no exceptions, it offers an ideal tranquil, restful holiday ASWELL AS FUN, ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS. This 3* All inclusive hotel is the only hotel in the Costa dorada which is 100% all inclusive and has 100% occupancy to the British Market.

There are 20 municipalities that make up Costa Dorada stretch along a seacoast of 216 kilometres, with 786 hectares of extensive, clean, sandy beaches washed by crystal, shallow waters. Lying between the sea and the mountain range are wide open areas, home to tranquil villages and fields of crops ranging from vineyards and olive groves to carob, hazelnut, almond trees and vegetable-garden crops. In total the area has over 500,000 hotel beds, many campsites and apartments, and it receives an average of 3,500,000 visitors per year with the Villa Marina Club Hotel been very popular with the British Market.

Inland, places and towns of interest (such as Reus, Valls, Montblanc, Tortosa) and great medieval monasteries are easily accessible: Poblet, Santes Creus and Scala Dei, as well as picturesque spots that are famous for their beautiful scenery (Prades, Siurana), abrupt sierras with big game reserves (Tivissa, Cardó and Ports de Tortosa), and the unique, extensive Ebro Delta with its labyrinth of irrigation channels and pools.

Salou has a blue flag beach and one of the most well known on the Costa Dorada. Levante Beach has all kinds of infrastructures: showers, loungers, several large car parks, and lifeguards who patrol the beach constantly. The Villa Marina Hotel is approx a 10-15 min walk away from the fantastic beaches, however been all inclusive you may not want to leave the Villa Marina.

There is a big promenade with all kinds of shops and restaurants surrounded by palm trees. The sailing club separates it from Poniente Beach. All kinds of sports are practised on the beach. The beach front promenade also hosts home to the musical fountains on an evening you can stand and watch the magic (Seasonal).

Choose the Villa Marina and you are also only a 10 min taxi journey from the Theme park Port Aventura, a day out for all the family not to be missed. The Hotel Villa Marina is the ideal location for you to explore the Costa dorada or just stay in the hotel and enjoy our entertainment and our all inclusive facilities.

Halloween

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 07:53:00 +0000

From the 18Th October right through to the 1st November, the hotel will be including a Halloween theme in the hotel.

Public areas of the hotel will decorated, and our Entertainment team will be including Halloween activities / games in to the daily programme.

If you are coming to the hotel over this period then don't forget to bring your Halloween outfits, and join in the Fun.

Join Hotel Villa Marina on Facebook

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 10:31:00 +0000

Villa Marina are now on Facebook

Why not become a fan and share your experience of been at the Villa Marina with others.

Thinking of coming to the Villa Marina and have a questions then just type it in on to our discussion board and you will recieve an answer.

Click on the search button on facebook and Type Hotel Villa Marina.

Halloween in Port Aventura

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:58:00 +0000

From 29th September to 18th November Port Aventura celebrates its most terrifying days during Halloween. They will make your worst nightmares come true.

During Halloween in Port Aventura you will find terrifying surprises hidden in the forest, walking along the streets or when eating in some of the restaurants. In the gift shops you can buy anything you need to keep celebrating Halloween at home.

Not everything will be scary during these days. The little ones will still enjoy their favourite characters with the big Halloween pumpkins or visiting their small houses full of sweets and playing "trick or treat".

Halloween is one of the most popular celebrations at Port Aventura, it is an event not to be missed.

Port Aventura opens daily from 29th September to 4th November and the days 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th November. Opening times are from Monday to Friday from 10 am to 7 pm, Saturdays from 10 am to 12 am (except 10th and 17th November from 10am to 9pm) and Sundays from 10 am to 9 pm.

The ticket price for these days is 37,00 € per adult and 29,00 € per children (from 4 until 10 years, less than 4 years its free), you can buy it at the Hotel Villamarina Club reception.

Unless you want to miss this big event please make your booking at the Hotel Villamarina Club between the 4th and 18th October (last vacancies) or at Festival Village between the 29th September and the 4th November.

Transfer from Reus and Barcelona airport

noreply@blogger.com (All Inclusive Salou) — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 16:47:00 +0000

Barcelona and Reus airports are the nearest ones to Hotel Villamarina Club.

The majority of tourists reach the Costa Dorada using Reus airport. At the moment Ryanair, First choice airways, Mytravel airways, Thomsonfly and Thomas Cook airlines have got plenty of UK and Ireland departure cities that fly to Reus airport.

Reus airport is 10 Km (6.2) miles away from the Hotel Villamarina Club. Transfer from the airport to the hotel can be done by either taxi or bus:

- Taxi: the journey takes between 15 and 20 minutes subjected to traffic. It costs between 24 € and 30€. Taxis in Spain take 4 passengers plus the driver. There are a few taxis who can take up to 6 people and also for disabled people but they need to be booked in advance or use the taxi rankin front the arrivals gate in the airport. Please have a look at Salou and Reus taxi companies Taxi Servei Logics SL (+34 902 385 050), Radio Taxi Salou (+34 977 385 090), Taxis Costa Daurada (+34 977 382 107) and Taxis Reus (+34 977 345 050).

- Bus: The journey takes around 25 minutes also depending on the traffic and the ticket costs 5.60 € per person for one way or 9.55€ for a roundtrip ticket (please make sure you ring them before your departure date to reconfirm your pick up time). Children under 4 years old go for free. The bus stop is just in front of the arrivals gate at Reus airport and you get dropped off at the Hotel Villamarina Club. For more information please visit Autocars Plana.

- Car Rental: Another option is to rent a car to visit the area and its surroundings. At Reus airport you can find different companies such as Avis (+34 977 779 855), Europcar (+34 977 779 851), Hertz (+34 977 779 872) and Sol-Mar (+34 977 778 480). The prices may vary according to the time of the season. Make sure you book your car in advance.

Barcelona airport is the second busiest airport in Spain with more than 30 million passengers in 2006. It is located in the Southwest of Barcelona (8 miles away from the city) and 102 km (63.4 miles) from Salou. You can fly from most UK and Ireland cities to Barcelona with Flyglobespan, Easyjet, Jet2, Bmibaby, Thomsonfly, Aer Lingus, Clickair, British Airways, Iberia, Monarch Airlines and Thomas cook Airlines. Transfer from Barcelona airport to Hotel Villamarina Club can be done by:

- Taxi: The journey takes about one hour and 15 minutes, depending on the traffic. The approximate cost of the journey is 150€. There is a taxi rank in front of the 3 arrival gates of the airport.

- Bus: There is a bus from Barcelona airport to Salou with stops at Port Aventura and La Pineda. The journey takes one hour and a half. The bus stop is in front of Terminal B arrival gate. This bus is operated for Autocars Plana.

Alsa company also do transfers from Barcelona airport by bus to Tarragona. When arriving at Tarragona you need to get a taxi to Hotel Villamarina Club which costs around 20.00€. The bus stop is also in front of Terminal B arrival gate.

- Train: There is a train station at Barcelona airport. Line 10 connects the airport with Barcelona city. There are trains every 20 minutes depending on the day and the time and the ticket costs 2.50€. Once in Barcelona it is necessary you need to stop at Barcelona Sants station and get another train to Salou. The train ticket from Barcelona to Salou costs between 6,00 and 18,00 € according to the type and category of the train and lasts about 90 minutes. Salou’s train station is 450 metres from the Hotel Villamarina Club.

- Car rental: The companies that offer this service are the following: Avis (+34 932 983 600), Europcar (+34 932 983 300), Hertz (+ 34 932 983 637), Sol-Mar (+34 932 983 433). All of these companies do have offices in Terminal B and C. Bare in mind that while in the highway you will have to pay toll.

There are also a few companies which arrange transfers from both airports to the Hotel Villamarina Club. You may wish to have a look on the Internet.

We hope this information is useful for you and makes your next visit to the Hotel Villamarina Club easier, cheaper and more enjoyable.

If you have been in Salou and wish to share your experience regarding transfers please do not hesitate to write your comment.