The former agricultural town of Viladecans, now an industrial centre, is situated within Barcelona’s metropolitan district in northwest Spain’s Catalonia region. The town is a useful base from which to explore the dramatic coastline of the Costa Brava, the varied countryside and the Pyrenees with cheap car hire in Viladecans.

Viladecans has a long history, beginning as a village in the 10th century. Excavations have revealed prehistoric and Roman remains in the area, confirming much earlier settlement. The city’s recent transformation resulted from its economic growth, with a small number of historic buildings remaining as a reminder of former times.

Worth visiting are the Torre del Baró de Viladecans, dating from the 12th century, the Red Tower with its fortifications, the medieval Can Menut and several ancient parish churches. The town has a large, mainly unspoiled beach with sand dunes, palm trees and a restaurant serving local Catalan cuisine and wines.

The recently opened huge shopping mall and marina provides excellent shopping facilities, as does nearby Barcelona, a short drive away with car hire in Viladecans. Local bars, clubs and cafes provide enjoyable nightlife, and the nearby countryside is great for walking, fishing, cycling, hiking and other energetic outdoor activities.

Car rental in Viladecans will enable daytrips across this spectacular region. The peaks of the Pyrenees, the rocky promontories and hidden sandy beaches along the coastline and the charming towns and villages of the Baix Emporda are all within driving distance. The lovely Medes islands are just a boat trip away.