The Costa Dorada has a different topography to the Costa Brava, the Mediterranean presents a gentler incline, and its sand is much finer with fewer rocks. There are long stretches of beach that extend as far as the eye can see and it’s not as built-up as the Costa Brava. Along these stretches is El Vendrell, just 35 minutes from Barcelona’s Airport and even closer to Reus. Ra Beach Hotel is on the San Salvador beach, the building sits practically on the sand, its symmetrical massing with deep setbacks makes for an iconic structure with a wide terrace facing the sea. Throughout the interior the hotel’s varied history is preserved in fascinating details creating an otherworldly sanctuary. The original part of the hotel is Art Deco style while the extensions are contemporary. The duplex style bedrooms of the main pavilion (the original block) look out to the Mediterranean directly, the new wings create two separate courtyards overlooking sheets of salt water, slightly set back, but all with sea views flanking the main block.