Visit the Picasso Centre in Horta and then follow the river Ebre down to the Nature Park of the Delta, a world of lagoons, dunes and islands rich in fauna and flora. Rice fields shimmer and great flocks of flamingos gather here. There are visitor centres, cycle and canoe rides and hides where you can watch some of the 350 species of birds.

Take time to explore inland towns and villages, especially Miravet and its castle mirrored in the river; Tortosa and its Renaissance Royal College; and Montblanc, a mediaeval gem where, according to legend, St George defeated the dragon.

On the nearby monastery route, Poblet is another must. With red roofs and yellow sandstone walls, it’s an impressive place where Catalan kings and queens were laid to rest. Monks shuffle in the cloisters and little disturbs the peace other than the birdsong in the scented gardens. The estate produces some of the best wine around.

Ramble through the craggy range of Montsant or the forested slopes of Prades and, on the ancient hermit trail, you will discover waterfalls, caves and more than 100 bubbling springs. You can picnic by the Margalef lake, swim in crystalline pools or look up at the Abellera hermitage nestling in the rocks.

The people of the Costa Dorada love a good fiesta – with giants paraded through the streets, fireworks, candlelit processions, bangers and bonfires and endless hours of merry-making. There are fiestas year round.