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Do you want to live an adventure full of history? Tarragona is the perfect destination. This province, in addition to having picture-postcard beaches and finger-licking good gastronomy, hides medieval villages that seem straight out of a fairy tale. Get your backpack ready, fully charge your phone and join us on this journey to the past.
1. Siurana (Priorat)
Siurana is simply, one of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia. Perched atop a cliff, its views will leave you breathless (and not just because of the climb!). This former Saracen enclave was the last Muslim stronghold in Catalonia and it still retains the remains of its Arab castle. Its cobbled streets and stone houses give the village a magical atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a day of hiking with a reward: a vermouth at any of its restaurants with panoramic terraces where you can also enjoy one of the best sunsets in Catalonia. Plus, its landscape is a paradise for climbing lovers.
2. Montblanc (Conca de Barberà)
If you love the Middle Ages, Montblanc is your place. It's not us saying it, it's the legend: here, Saint George slayed the dragon! This walled town preserves its striking medieval enclosure, with defense towers and gates that are truly mesmerizing. Every spring, the Medieval Week of Saint George turns Montblanc into an authentic period setting, with markets, tournaments and shows. But even so, any time is a good time to wander through its streets, discovering Gothic churches and tasting a fine wine from the Conca de Barberà. Montblanc is one of the must-visits if you are in the province of Tarragona.
3. Prades (Baix Camp)
Prades is a village that stands out for its colors. Known as the "red village" due to the reddish tint of its stone, this jewel of the Baix Camp is surrounded by forests and mountains that invite you to explore. We encourage you to take the cultural route, which goes through places such as the Main Square, presided over by a Renaissance fountain with Latin inscriptions, the defense tower and the wall or the remains of the castle. And if you go in summer, you'll enjoy a spectacular night sky, as Prades is part of a Starlight reserve, ideal for star gazing.
4. Miravet (Ribera d'Ebre)
Few things are as photogenic as Miravet from the Ebro. This town, with its Templar castle overlooking the river, is a unique sight. The ancient castle is a must visit to understand the history of the Order of the Templars in Catalonia, and the town itself, with its houses hanging over the water, invites you to stroll leisurely. Don't forget to take a trip on the traditional Ebro river crossing!
5. Escaladei (Montsant)
This ancient Carthusian monastery, considered the first on the Iberian Peninsula, gave rise to the Priorat vineyard. Today, its ruins breathe history. Walking through its cloisters and imagining monastic life is a unique experience. And if you want to complete the day afterwards, take advantage of a tour through the best wineries in Tarragona. Wine and history? A great combination.
6. Vallfogona de Riucorb (Conca de Barberà)
This small village in the Conca de Barberà is a hidden gem. With narrow streets and an architecture that transports you to the past, it is ideal for those looking for a peaceful getaway. Furthermore, it is known for its connection with the medieval poet Francesc Vicent Garcia, the rector of Vallfogona. Don't forget to make a stop at their spa and taste the water from their thermal springs.
7. Farena (Alt Camp)
Located in the heart of the Prades Mountains, Farena is a charming little village, ideal for hiking and nature lovers. Its cobbled streets and stone houses make time seem to stand still. It's a perfect destination to combine culture and forest expeditions, with stunning routes such as the one leading to the Toll de l'Olla.
8. Santa Coloma de Queralt (Conca de Barberà)
This medieval village in Conca de Barberà preserves a spectacular heritage, with arcaded squares, Gothic churches, and an impressive castle. Walking through its streets will transport you directly to the feudal era. In addition, it is part of the Camino de Santiago, making it a point of interest for pilgrims. It is also one of the mandatory stops on the Cistercian Route.
9. L'Espluga de Francolí (Conca de Barberà)
This village not only stands out for its medieval charm, but also for its prehistoric caves, one of which you can visit. Moreover, it is a key place to learn about wine culture, as it hosts the Wine Museum and several cooperatives that produce excellent wines and cavas. If you visit l'Espluga de Francolí during the Christmas holidays, you cannot miss its living nativity scene, one of the best living nativity scenes in Catalonia.
10. Conesa (Conca de Barberà)
Conesa is a charming village with an authentically medieval atmosphere. Nestled in a rural landscape of the Conca de Barberà, the village preserves its walls and gateways, as well as a main square with a special charm. Walking through its narrow streets is like taking a trip back in time, and if you go there in the summer, you can enjoy the medieval market, which keeps its history alive.
These towns are not only photogenic, but they also tell the history of Catalonia through their castles, walls and cobbled streets. In addition, they are perfect for a cultural getaway with a gastronomic touch, as in each one you will find local products that will make you salivate. Artisanal cheeses, homemade sausages and, of course, wines from the best certificate of origin. So now you know, if you want to take a journey back in time without the need to build a time machine, look for the best rural house and get ready to live a medieval adventure. Have a great trip!