That Tarragona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the North of Spain isn’t news to anyone. The Costa Dorada - Gold Coast - is one of the highlights that attract thousands of people to take their holidays here. But this region of Catalonia is more than just a pretty coastline, it is also home to a wealth of cultural and historical interest, offering a complete experience to residents and visitors alike.

There is a multitude of activities on offer that allow visitors to get the most out of their time in the region, and we’re here to tell you about one of the best - go-karts! This is your gateway into a world of speed, where the curves and corners come as quickly as the laughs and excitement that you share with your friends and family.

We can promise you a great day out, the best thing being that you don’t even need to know how to drive! No experience behind the wheel is required to get involved, it’s open to everyone. On top of that, it’s an all-weather activity, perfect for those days when relaxing on the beach isn’t such a tempting prospect.

Where are the best karting tracks in Tarragona?

• Salou: this tourist favourite on the gold coast offers the opportunity to experience the cutting edge of the world of karting. It has electric karts: clean machines whose battery powered motors are just as powerful as traditional engines, with none of the polluting emissions. They’re available to try on outdoor circuits, and are the perfect way to celebrate a birthday, stag/hen party or just a fantastic day out with friends or colleagues.

• Altafulla: this town is also known as the Galicia of the Gold Coast due to its unspoilt natural surroundings. It’s the ideal place to enjoy outdoor go-karting. Imagine driving at breakneck speed around the track with the sea breeze in your hair. It’s the dream, right? Well this is your chance to turn it into reality.

• Calafat: this less well known area is found on the way to Terres de l’Ebre. Despite being situated off the beaten track, it boasts an impressive karting track. If you're a go-kart fan already, you’ve probably heard of it. If not, we’ll be the ones to tell you that it is unique in Spain for having a permanent RallyCross circuit with a mix of asphalt and dirt tracks. Skids, slides and drift are all on the menu in Calafat, and it’ll be one of the most exciting experiences of your holiday in Tarragona.

• El Vendrell: Did you know that one of the biggest karting tracks in Europe is found near Tarragona? National tournaments are held in El Vendrell, putting the biggest names in the world of karting to the test on every corner of its 1300 metre long track. Drivers such as Carlos Sainz and Pedro de la Rosa frequent the tracks in Vendrell - if you’re lucky, you might get overtaken by one of them on the day that you visit! Don’t miss your chance, choose go-karting here if you’re going to be in the area.

• Tarragona city: not far from the centre of bustling Tarragona you can find a karting circuit which combines the best of indoor and outdoor karting. It’s a unique proposition. Will you take on the challenge of speeding around this circuit, adapting to the changes in light and shade as you emerge into the daylight and return again undercover? It adds an extra challenge, but if you’re looking for an experience like no other, you’ll have no trouble finding your way to this track in the middle of the region’s capital.

How long does a go-kart race last?

If you’re tempted by what’s on offer in Tarragona and want to try your luck in a go-kart race, you should know that different types of races will vary in length:

- Individual rounds last between 8 and 10 minutes, so the more rounds you do the longer the race will last. This is the perfect option to beat your own time or compete against your friends.

- Mini races start with an 8 minute qualifying challenge, before a final race. You’ll need to channel your inner Lewis Hamilton to come out on top!

- Grand Prix includes training, a chance to warm up your motor and your reflexes before the main event, followed by qualification, all before the main event. The Grand Prix usually takes around half an hour to complete. If you’re looking for the perfect plan for your birthday party, look no further.

One piece of advice: the most important thing is to maintain the same speed for as long as possible, only accelerating after going around a corner. If you put your foot down early, you’ll lose power and are likely to get overtaken. Keep this tip in mind and you’ll be sure to end up on the podium.

What kind of karts are available in Tarragona?

+ Adults: If you’re over 17 years old you can drive an adult kart. There is a minimum age because this is the fastest kart on offer and requires a certain level of strength and weight to keep it under control. For the perfect coming of age celebration, take an adult kart for a lap around the track, and become king of the circuit.

+ Junior: from 7 years old and up, you’re considered a junior pilot, and you’ll be driving a junior kart. Though it might not reach 80 kilometres an hour like the adult karts, these one pack a punch and are ideally suited to those between 7 and 17 years old.

+ Child: even the youngest petrol heads won’t miss out on burning some rubber. Children between 4 and 7 years old can drive these karts which are especially adapted for their age. They come with adjustable pedals and steering wheels to cater to all shapes and sizes, ensuring that they’re comfortable and safe.

+ Two-seater: for a bonding session between parent and child, the two-seater kart is the best choice. Children who are over 1.40m can get in these karts with an adult by their side. The best thing about riding together is that the children can experience the ride on the full size tracks, which are not suitable for children’s karts.

Now that you have all the information necessary to go karting in Tarragona, you just have to choose the track and kart type that appeals to your inner speed demon. Put your pedal to the metal and race into this amazing adventure!