An arty Spanish hotspot
For many visitors, Reus holidays are a chance to learn about Spain’s greatest architect. This attractive city is the birthplace of the legendary Antoni Gaudi i Cornet – the man behind Barcelona’s epic basilica Sagrada Familia. The Gaudi Centre in Reus provides an excellent introduction to the man and his work, with scale models, biographical displays and multimedia exhibits. While Gaudi didn’t build in Reus, there are several other modernist structures to wonder at along the city’s Ruta del Modernisme.
As well as allowing arty folk to go Gaudi-mad, the city is also a great choice for shoppers. Reus was once a major trading city and hub for the alcohol and textile trades – and it’s still famous for its excellent shopping and vermouth. The Vermouth Museum is an interesting visit, plus it has a restaurant, and you can continue your research at many of the stylish city-centre bars. Beyond the city, the cliffs and crags of the Sierra de Prades Mountains offer top-class rock-climbing adventures. So for architecture, nature and the finer things in life, holidays to Reus are sure to show you a good time.
Your Reus questions, answered
Antoni Gaudi was a leading figure in Catalan modernism – an architectural style that focused on rich, curving decoration, fine detail and the Catalan identity. His Sagrada Familia is one of Spain’s most-visited attractions.
Vermouth may be strongly associated with Italy and France, but Spain also produces great vermouths – mostly sweet and red. In its vermouth heyday, Reus had around 30 producers.
There’s plenty nearby, including the Sierra de Prades Mountains, lovely beach resorts and the city of Tarragona. Kids will love PortAventura World, Spain’s biggest theme park, which is a 15-minute drive away.
Best things to do in Reus
Go to the Gaudi Centre
This excellent museum takes visitors on a journey through the famous architect’s life, with a focus on how he took his inspiration from nature and used contemporary materials for his creations.
Become a vermouth whizz
The Spanish generally drink vermouth neat – and you can find out why at the Vermouth Museum. There are also some good bars to try various vermouths in the streets around Placa de la Llibertat.
Visit PortAventura World
With roller coasters and drop towers galore, log flumes and a water park, the massive PortAventura World offers fun thrills to please all the family.