Sometimes family trips happen for reasons beyond sightseeing.
Our recent stay at Sol Costa Daurada in Salou was one of those occasions. While our younger son Marc was busy competing in a basketball tournament with his teammates, we decided to turn the trip into a small getaway with our older son Damian.
We booked a Triple Room with Half Board, and for the first time it really hit us that Damian is no longer a little boy. At 13 years old, he is already charged as an adult in most hotels, including Sol Costa Daurada.
What we expected was a practical hotel close to the tournament venue.
What we found was a surprisingly comfortable family hotel in one of the most popular holiday destinations on the Costa Daurada.
First Impressions
Located in Salou, just minutes from PortAventura World and Ferrari Land, Sol Costa Daurada is one of those hotels that immediately feels welcoming.
The reception area is spacious, bright, and constantly buzzing with families arriving with suitcases, strollers, and excited children counting down the days until their theme park adventure.
Despite its size, check-in was smooth and efficient.
Within minutes we received our room cards and were on our way upstairs.
The atmosphere throughout the hotel felt relaxed and family-oriented rather than overly formal, which immediately put us at ease.
Our Triple Room
For this trip we stayed in a Triple Room with Balcony.
The room was spacious enough for two adults and one teenager, something that isn’t always guaranteed in many European hotels.
Inside we found:
- Comfortable beds
- Large wardrobe space
- Desk area
- Bathroom
- Balcony with seating area
- Air conditioning
- Free Wi-Fi
- Television
The room was clean and well-maintained, with plenty of storage for a short family stay.
The Ferrari Land View
One of the highlights of our room was undoubtedly the view.
From our balcony we could clearly see Ferrari Land.
Until around 8 PM every evening we could hear the distant screams of visitors enjoying the rides. Rather than being disturbing, it actually added a fun holiday atmosphere to our stay.
Watching the roller coasters in action while relaxing on the balcony after a busy day became one of our favorite moments.
For theme park fans, having this view is definitely a bonus.
Half Board Experience
Our stay included Half Board, which meant:
- Dinner on arrival day
- Daily breakfast
- Breakfast on departure day
This is something many travelers don’t realize when booking.
With half board, the first meal served is dinner, while the last meal before departure is breakfast.
For families, this option offers excellent value.
Breakfast
Breakfast was served buffet style in the hotel’s main restaurant.
The selection was extensive and included:
- Fresh pastries
- Bread and toast stations
- Fruits
- Yogurts
- Cereals
- Eggs
- Bacon
- Sausages
- Local Spanish specialties
- Coffee and tea stations
- Juices
Everything was regularly replenished and presented attractively.
Even picky eaters should have no problem finding something they enjoy.
Dinner
Dinner exceeded our expectations.
Many resort hotels focus on quantity rather than quality, but Sol Costa Daurada managed to deliver both.
Every evening included a wide variety of:
- Fresh salads
- Grilled meats
- Fish dishes
- Pasta
- Rice dishes
- Vegetables
- Local Catalan specialties
- International cuisine
- Desserts
The food tasted fresh and well-prepared.
As a family, we appreciated the variety because everyone could choose something different without compromise.
Pool Areas
One thing that makes Sol Costa Daurada particularly appealing for families is its outdoor space.
Main Pool
The larger pool serves as the heart of the hotel.
Surrounded by sun loungers and palm trees, it creates a relaxed Mediterranean holiday atmosphere.
Families spend most of their day here, especially during warmer months.
Children’s Pool
There is also a dedicated area for younger guests, making it easier for families with small children to enjoy the facilities safely.
Even outside peak season, the pool areas looked inviting and well maintained.
Facilities for Families
Sol Costa Daurada clearly understands its target audience.
Families are at the center of the experience.
Children can enjoy:
- Kids Club
- Children’s playground
- Entertainment programs
- Seasonal activities
- Dedicated children’s pool
Parents can relax knowing there is plenty to keep younger guests occupied.
Wellness and Gym
Adults aren’t forgotten either.
The hotel offers:
- Gym facilities
- Wellness area
- Indoor pool (seasonal)
- Spa treatments
For travelers who like to stay active during their holidays, the gym is a welcome addition.
Location: Why It Works So Well
One of the strongest selling points of Sol Costa Daurada is its location.
You are within easy reach of:
- PortAventura World
- Ferrari Land
- Salou Beach
- Salou Promenade
- Tarragona
- Reus Airport
Whether you’re visiting for a theme park holiday, sporting event, beach getaway, or family vacation, the location works exceptionally well.
How to Get to Sol Costa Daurada from Barcelona
By Car
The easiest option is driving.
Distance from Barcelona:
Approximately 110 km
Travel time:
Around 1 hour 15 minutes
The route follows the AP-7 motorway and is straightforward.
By Train
You can take a train from Barcelona Sants to Salou or nearby stations.
Travel time:
Approximately 1–1.5 hours
By Bus
Several direct bus services connect Barcelona Airport and Barcelona city center with Salou throughout the year.
Who Is This Hotel Best For?
Perfect For:
✅ Families with children
✅ PortAventura visitors
✅ Sports tournaments
✅ Multi-generational family trips
✅ Summer beach holidays
Less Ideal For:
❌ Luxury travelers seeking boutique experiences
❌ Adults-only romantic escapes
Final Thoughts
Our stay at Sol Costa Daurada was exactly what we needed.
While Marc was focused on basketball, we enjoyed quality family time with Damian, comfortable accommodation, good food, and a surprisingly pleasant atmosphere.
The combination of a convenient location, family-friendly facilities, spacious rooms, and solid dining options makes this hotel an excellent choice for anyone visiting Salou.
The view of Ferrari Land from our balcony was simply the cherry on top.
If you’re looking for a practical and comfortable base near PortAventura World, Sol Costa Daurada is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sol Costa Daurada
Is Sol Costa Daurada suitable for families?
Yes, Sol Costa Daurada is one of the most family-friendly hotels in Salou, offering pools, kids’ activities, a playground, and spacious family rooms.
How far is Sol Costa Daurada from PortAventura World?
The hotel is located just a few minutes from PortAventura World and Ferrari Land, making it a convenient choice for theme park visitors.
Does Sol Costa Daurada offer half board?
Yes. Half board includes dinner on the arrival day and breakfast each morning, including breakfast on the departure day.
Does Sol Costa Daurada have a swimming pool?
Yes, the hotel offers outdoor pools for adults and children, as well as wellness facilities including an indoor pool and gym.
How do you get to Sol Costa Daurada from Barcelona?
You can reach the hotel by car in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, by train from Barcelona Sants, or by direct bus services to Salou.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sol Costa Daurada
Is Sol Costa Daurada suitable for families?
Yes, Sol Costa Daurada is one of the most family-friendly hotels in Salou, offering pools, kids’ activities, a playground, and spacious family rooms.
How far is Sol Costa Daurada from PortAventura World?
The hotel is located just a few minutes from PortAventura World and Ferrari Land, making it a convenient choice for theme park visitors.
Does Sol Costa Daurada offer half board?
Yes. Half board includes dinner on the arrival day and breakfast each morning, including breakfast on the departure day.
Does Sol Costa Daurada have a swimming pool?
Yes, the hotel offers outdoor pools for adults and children, as well as wellness facilities including an indoor pool and gym.
How do you get to Sol Costa Daurada from Barcelona?
You can reach the hotel by car in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, by train from Barcelona Sants, or by direct bus services to Salou.
