A holiday in the sun, Tarragona, Spain

The architectural heritage is varied and interesting, with examples in local towns of the influence of Gaudi and the Modernists. There is much of historical interest, including Moorish and Civil War sites as well as some dating back to pre Iberic culture.

Every village has its festivals, which are a real treat if you manage to catch one. There are cycleways and footpaths crossing the countryside and connections to Barcelona by Bus or Train, although it is only a two hour drive. You will need some form of transport, these are country areas and the services are limited.

In every case you will be dealing directly with the owners of the property who all speak English.

Batea is a village which combines a busy, working population and sense of community with history in its old arched walkways leading

into the original medieval quarter. Here there is a recently modernised farm building built high on the old wall of the village with wonderful views across country into Aragon. It sleeps six.

In Falset there is a new studio apartment for two. Attached to the owners house on their finca on the outskirts of busy Falset, it has its own small garden.

The tiny village of Bot is home to a most beautifully restored small hostal 'Cal Tomas'. Bed and breakfast is the order of the day here. The link takes you directly to its own website which is in Catalan. However the owner is very friendly and speaks English.

Both regions are easy to get to. Flights to Barcelona or Reus are frequent and car hire is simple from one of the many agents there. From Barcelona it is an easy one hour motorway drive to Reus and the N420, the road that connects the areas. From here forty minutes takes you to Falset and another forty to Bot or Batea..