A strange yet wonderful phenomenon is that Altafulla seems to have somehow escaped the kind of mass tourism that some of the other seaside towns of the Costa Dorada enjoy. This charming seaside town, that is drenched in artistic and historic heritage, has plenty of facilities to keep a savvy traveller happy, yet enough peace and tranquility to ensure a relaxing holiday.
Beautiful Botigues de Mar
The Botigues de Mar line the promenade with an authentic maritime charm, that makes a stroll there a must. Sit for a while in a nearby bar or restaurant, and enjoy these small establishments, which originally date to the 18th century. The Botigues de Mar of Altafulla were designed originally for the fishermen to store their tools and also for traders to keep products which were destined for sale in the colonies. In the early 20th century these small properties were restored and used as summer residences.
The golden, sandy blue flag beach of Altafulla
The blue flag, golden sandy beach of Altafulla is the perfect place to enjoy the wonderful, Mediterranean climate and views, while listening to the waves lapping up gently against the shore. The beach has decent access for those with reduced mobility, and is a great spot for family holidays, with a lifeguard service during the height of the season.
For those who are into water sports, the Altafulla Sailing Club is located on the beach by the Hort de les Bombes gardens. The club was founded in 1976, and Altafulla has hosted International, Spanish and Catalan sailing championships.
UNESCO World Heritage Site-Els Munts
Built during the 1st century A.D., Els Munts, the Roman Villa, was one of a number of Roman towns that were built around Tarraco, the great Roman city, that today is known as Tarragona. Els Munts is close to the beach of Altafulla, and was home to the governor of Tarraco, Caius Valerius Avitus and his wife. Els Munts was part of the excavation work carried out in 1967 by the Archaeological Museum of Tarragona. Visits are possible all year around, except for on Mondays.
The medieval, ancient walled part of town-Vila Closa
Declared to be a Cultural Asset of National Interest, in 1998, by the Generalitat of Catalonia, the Vila Closa is the wonderful medieval walled part of Altafulla. It is of great artistic and historic importance.
Delightful Tamarit Castle
Overlooking the beach of the same name, is the delightful Tamarit Castle, which dates as far back as the 11th century, according to written records. Tamarit Castle is around a 3.5 km (just over 2 miles) drive from Altafulla town, but it belongs to the municipality. It includes both residential and defensive elements, and is considered to be one of the area’s earliest and purest examples of Romanesque style architecture. In the early 20th century, an American collector bought it and restored it. The castle and its superb location make it very special.
Altafulla Church Square
One of the highlights of the old town of Altafulla is its church square, which comprises of the church of Saint Martin (Martí), the rectory and the castle. If you are visiting during the summer, make sure to check out the schedule of recitals and concerts that take place there, because of its fine acoustics and wonderful surroundings.
Don’t miss tantalising Tarragona
The tantalising city of Tarragona is almost on Altafulla’s doorstep. Tarragona is only 15 km (9 miles) away, and is exploding with sights of artistic, cultural and historic importance. Let me say no more, other to sneakily drop in the Roman amphitheatre by the sea ….you can read more here
Fiestas and cultural events
For a town with a population of just under 5000, Altafulla has plenty going on throughout the year. From the first swim of the year on New Year’s Day, to a great number of music events, its carnival and its Witches’ Night, there’s plenty of fun and entertainment to be had in this charming, cultural seaside town.
Jackie de Burca is Co-owner of Catalonia Valencia.
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