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| The area offers a wealth of other holiday activities ranging from exploring the vibrant Roman cities of Barcelona & Tarragona to simply relaxing in rocky Mediterranean coves. Roman Cities Barcelona - Located only 2 hours car/train journey away from the rural accommodation, the Catalonian capital can be used as the starting/finishing point for your holiday or enjoyed as a day visit. This cosmopolitan city has fine shopping districts and street markets, especially the vibrant Las Ramblas which ambles pleasantly down to the port area. Well-preserved Roman streets and Iberian settlements have been discovered beneath the present day city and can be seen by visiting the City History Museum. The city is rich in architecture with its impressive Gothic cathedral located in the medieval quarter, and of course Gaudi's famous Sagrada Familia. There is also the more modern Nou Camp stadium, home to Barcelona Football Club. Tarragona - Located within an hour's drive/train journey. The city stands on a small hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea providing magnificent views of the surrounding coastline. Its importance lies in its Roman remains, since it was chosen as the base for Romanization of the Iberian Peninsula. One of its most notable sites are the city walls which were once 40 miles long sheltering one million inhabitants when first built in 218 BC; part of which are still walkable today. There is also a well-preserved ampitheatre and aqueduct. It too has pleasant shopping areas and outdoor cafes. Tortosa - Just 15 minutes drive away. As you approach the city the most dominating feature on the skyline is the Castle of the Suda. Located in the old Roman acropolis, the origin of its construction can be traced back to the Moorish ruler Abdal-Rahman III. Situated on the picturesque banks of the River Ebro, its medieval quarter hosts a 14th century gothic cathedral with baroque facade and 13th century cloisters. Present day Tortosa has numerous interesting speciality shops as well as a vibrant covered market. It also prides itself in celebrating special fiestas full of folklore and old traditions. In the summer of 2007, celebrity chef Rick Stein visited Tortosa to sample its Catalan culinary delights. Local Sites of Interest Listed below are just a few examples of other things to do and see in the immediate area. Cycling along recently converted old railway line routes that run beside the scenic River Ebro and also inland following the narrow winding mountain river of the Canaletta. Visiting pretty mountain villages, such as the typically Valencian village of Bellestar (meaning 'it is beautiful ' in Spanish) and the Catalan village of Horta de San Joan (where the nearby mountains are said to be the inspiration behind Picasso's Cubism). 'Steep Learning Curves towards Cubism' - Daily Telegraph Travel Article (July 2006) Caves - Just outside Benifallet (a riverside village). Recently discovered in the sixties, these have the classic stalagmite and stalactites as well as other curious formations. For more information visit www.showcaves.com Cave Shelter Paintings - These date back to Neolithic times and depict local hunting scenes. They are set in the hills behind the pretty chapel of La Pietat, Ulledocona. Spanish Civil War - During the last phases of the civil war, the mountains and valleys especially around Gandesa, saw some of the fiercest fighting of the conflict, the war's last main front being the River Ebro. British volunteers were indeed involved on the Republican side during what was to be known as the Battle of the Ebro. Local information regarding the battle can now be seen in Gandesa's small war museum. Moorish Weir, Xerta A spectacular structure across the River Ebro which was first constructed in 1576 allowing for the collection of water for the two irrigation canals, running either side of the river. These provide the water to flood the many Ebro Delta rice paddy fields. Fishing the River Ebro Famous for its wild carp and large catfish. Phil Pembroke's book will provide all the information required to fish this part of the Ebro. Further details can be obtained by telephoning the author in the UK on 01708 764 696 or visiting his website www.spainfishing.com Coastal Area The nearest beaches to the rural accommodation are within 30 minutes drive. They are part of the Costa Daurada, renowned for the softness of its beaches with their fine golden sand, and for its warm stable climate. The two nearest blue flag resorts are located either side of the Ebro Delta. On its northern side is L'Ampolla with rocky coves, ideal for snorkelling, and plentiful seafood restaurants along its seafront. On the southern side is Sant Carles de la Rapita with family beaches, renowned restaurants, pleasant shops, and its busy fishing fleet. The Ebro Delta itself also hosts 15 miles of unspoilt sandy beaches. Other family Outings Universal Studio's Port Aventura Theme Park is just under an hour away by car /train. It boasts 5 themed 'lands' including China and the Wild West. There is something for the whole family as each 'land' provides authentic cuisine, live shows and of course exciting attractions (rides). It makes a very enjoyable day out for the whole family. The park is located just outside Salou, which also has a large aqua park. For more information visit www. portaventura.co.uk |
