Massive Fire Breaks Out at Popular Sangulí Salou Resort: Dozens Evacuated Safely
Salou, Spain – May 18, 2025
A massive fire broke out early Sunday morning at the popular Sangulí Salou Resort, forcing the evacuation of over 300 guests and staff. Though no fatalities have been reported, several cabins and common areas sustained severe damage before firefighters brought the blaze under control.
Emergency services responded quickly after a call was placed to the local fire department around 4:45 a.m. reporting smoke and flames near the resort’s central bungalow zone. Within minutes, thick smoke began engulfing the recreational area, waking up sleeping guests and triggering emergency protocols.
Quick Action Saved Lives
According to authorities, the resort’s night staff acted promptly. Security personnel and on-duty receptionists began moving guests away from the affected area even before emergency crews arrived.
“Thanks to the swift action of staff, we were able to prevent what could have been a far more tragic situation,” said Fire Chief Andrés Pons during a press briefing Sunday afternoon. “The fire was intense and spread rapidly due to the dry conditions and wooden structures, but coordinated efforts helped avoid any loss of life.”
Emergency responders from the Tarragona Fire Department arrived at the scene with six engines and 22 firefighters. By 6:30 a.m., the blaze was largely contained, though pockets of flame smoldered into the late morning.
Extent of Damage
Initial assessments indicate that at least 12 bungalows were completely destroyed, while several others sustained partial damage due to heat and smoke. The resort’s main pool area and a children’s playground near the epicenter were also affected.
Guests were evacuated to nearby facilities, including municipal halls and partner hotels in Salou, where they received temporary shelter, food, and medical care. Some were treated for minor smoke inhalation and anxiety-related symptoms, but no one required hospitalization.
Sangulí Salou management issued a public statement by midday:
“We are deeply saddened by the events of this morning and grateful to the emergency services for their rapid response. Our immediate concern is the safety and wellbeing of our guests and staff. We are working closely with authorities to assess the damage and support everyone affected.”
Guests React
Guests described a terrifying and chaotic scene as they scrambled to evacuate.
“We woke up to shouting and a loud alarm,” said Emily Watson, a British tourist staying at the resort with her family. “When we opened the door, we could see flames just two bungalows down. It was terrifying, but the staff were incredible. They kept us calm and moving.”
Another guest, Javier Montes from Madrid, echoed that sentiment. “There was a lot of smoke, and it was hard to breathe. My kids were scared, but everyone helped each other. I’ve never experienced anything like this.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities have begun a full investigation into the cause of the fire. While no official cause has been announced, early reports suggest that an electrical fault in one of the bungalows may have triggered the blaze.
“There is no indication of foul play at this stage,” said Inspector Laura Benítez from the Mossos d’Esquadra (Catalan Police). “We are examining surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the precise cause. Our focus now is on ensuring the safety of the site and preventing further incidents.”
The resort will remain closed until at least May 25, according to the management, with updates to be provided based on the progress of the investigation and repairs.
Economic and Seasonal Impact
The fire comes at a critical time for the resort, just as the summer tourism season kicks into high gear. Sangulí Salou, one of the most popular family resorts on the Costa Dorada, sees tens of thousands of visitors each season and is a major contributor to the local economy.
Local business owners expressed concern about the broader impact. “We rely on tourists from Sangulí for a good part of our income,” said Marta Feliu, who owns a nearby restaurant. “Hopefully, the damage can be fixed quickly, and people will feel safe returning.”
Tourism officials in Salou also pledged support for the resort and its guests. “We are committed to helping Sangulí Salou recover as quickly as possible,” said Rafael Romero, head of the local tourism board. “This incident, while serious, does not change the fact that Salou remains a safe and welcoming destination.”
Support and Rebuilding
As news of the fire spread, messages of support poured in from former guests and local residents across social media. Many praised the staff’s bravery and offered to help with rebuilding efforts.
Sangulí Salou has already begun organizing temporary accommodations for displaced guests and issued full refunds for affected bookings. A fundraising campaign has been proposed to support both affected staff and future rebuilding efforts, though no formal details have been released.
“We are committed to restoring our resort to its full glory,” said Resort Director Marta Requena. “Sangulí Salou is more than a holiday destination – it’s a community. And like any strong community, we will rebuild and come back stronger.”
Looking Ahead
While the coming weeks will be focused on recovery, guests and locals alike are hopeful. The rapid response, absence of serious injury, and overwhelming support suggest a path forward – one paved with resilience and unity.
As one guest put it, “This could have ended in tragedy, but instead it showed the best of people – how we come together when it matters most.”