Autumn excursions in Catalonia: magical corners of the season
Autumn transforms Catalonia into a spectacle of colours, aromas and unique landscapes. The forests are dyed in ochre and gold tones, the villages regain their calm and the mountains invite you to walk under a clear and fresh sky. It is the ideal time to go on autumn excursions in Catalonia, when nature is shown in its most welcoming version and every corner seems to have just been discovered.
In this article, we propose some of the best autumn plans in Catalonia: routes through enchanted forests, viewpoints with endless views, charming rural getaways and practical tips to make the most of every outing. From our local experience, we tell you which places are worth a visit and how to make the most of the season.
Why take autumn excursions in Catalonia
Autumn has something special: it combines the tranquility of late summer with the natural beauty of the months leading up to winter. Mild temperatures and clear days create the perfect environment to get out and explore.
Going on autumn excursions in Catalonia allows you to rediscover well-known places in a different light. The natural parks are emptied of tourists and the paths are filled with rustling leaves, turning any walk into a sensory experience. In addition, it is an ideal time for those who enjoy hiking, photography or gastronomic getaways.
If you are looking for autumn getaways in Catalonia, you will find a huge variety: from Pyrenean valleys to coastal mountain ranges, passing through medieval villages and monasteries hidden between mountains.
Essential routes to enjoy autumn
Autumn in Tarragona offers surprising landscapes that combine lush forests, charming villages and trails that cross unique natural landscapes. If you are thinking of enjoying autumn excursions in Catalonia, this province is a perfect starting point: its diversity of environments allows you to go from the mountains to the sea in just one hour, with routes adapted to all levels and ages.
Below, we show you some of the most recommended routes for this time of year, especially if you are staying or moving around the interior of Tarragona.
Poblet Forest and Sierra de Prades
The Poblet Forest is one of the most spectacular places for autumn excursions in Catalonia. Located in the Poblet Natural Park, very close to L’Espluga de Francolí, it offers trails surrounded by holm oaks, oaks and pines that in this season are dressed in ochre and gold tones.
You can follow circular routes such as the Mirador de la Pena, with views of the monastery of Poblet, or ascend towards the Mola d’Estat if you are looking for a slightly more demanding experience.
● Duration: from 1 to 4 hours depending on the route.
● Difficulty: low to medium.
● Ideal time: from October to early December.
● Tip: Wear hiking shoes and set aside some time to visit the Monastery of Poblet, a World Heritage Site, which is especially beautiful in autumn.
Hazelnut Route in Alcover
One of the most original autumn getaways in Catalonia. This itinerary runs through the typical hazelnut fields of Camp de Tarragona, which take on a beautiful golden colour during autumn. The route passes through small farmhouses and rural roads with views of the Prades mountains.
It is perfect to enjoy with family or couple, combining nature and local culture. In addition, you can take the opportunity to visit the Municipal Museum of Alcover, dedicated to the natural history of the area.
● Duration: 2 hours.
● Difficulty: low.
● Tip: in mid-October the “Fira de l’Avellana” is usually held in some municipalities in the area, ideal for tasting local products and taking a gastronomic break.
Forests of the Poblet Natural Park towards Prades
From the surroundings of Villa Engracia, there are multiple trails that cross the Poblet Natural Park until you reach Prades, a mountain village known for its reddish stone houses and its tranquil air. This route combines wooded sections, natural viewpoints and small fountains where you can take a break.
● Duration: about 3-4 hours.
● Difficulty: medium.
● Ideal for: hikers and nature photography lovers.
● Tip: On clear days, the Pena viewpoint offers a spectacular view of the valley and the ochre-tinged forests. Bring something warm – the temperature can drop quickly at dusk.
Els Ports de Beceite (Terres de l'Ebre)
At the southern end of Tarragona, the Ports Natural Park offers one of the wildest and least crowded autumn routes in Catalonia. Its ravines, rivers and pine forests create an impressive landscape, ideal for those looking for a more mountainous and quiet environment.
You can follow the Estrets d’Arnes path, a path that runs along the river between rock walls, or explore the natural pools of the Toll Blau.
● Duration: half day or full day.
● Difficulty: medium.
● Ideal time: October and November.
● Tip: combine the excursion with a visit to the village of Horta de Sant Joan, the birthplace of inspiration for Picasso, and enjoy the gastronomy of the area, especially oil and wine with Terra Alta designation of origin.
Route of the Priorat Viewpoints
If you prefer an autumn getaway in Catalonia that combines nature and wine, the Priorat is your destination. Between vineyards and hills, the rural roads will take you to viewpoints such as La Figuera or Siurana, one of the most beautiful villages in Tarragona.
During autumn, the vineyards change colour and the atmosphere is filled with aromas of damp earth and ripe grapes. In addition, many wineries offer tours and tastings at this time.
● Duration: variable depending on the route.
● Difficulty: low.
● Ideal for: gentle hiking and wine tourism.
● Tip: combine the hike with a meal at a local winery or the restaurants in Cornudella de Montsant, where you can enjoy seasonal produce.
Autumn getaways with rural charm
Autumn also invites you to enjoy rest and disconnection. Beyond hiking, there are getaways that combine nature, culture and local gastronomy.
Medieval villages that seem to be taken from a fairy tale
Besalú, Peratallada or Rupit i Pruit are ideal destinations for an autumn getaway in Catalonia. Strolling through its cobbled streets, visiting artisan markets or tasting local products are simple plans that sum up the essence of the season.
Tastings and gastronomic routes
Autumn is a time for mushrooms, new wine and local produce fairs. In areas such as Priorat or Penedès you can combine gentle walks through vineyards with tastings in family wineries, practicing a bit of wine tourism. An ideal experience for those looking for autumn plans in Catalonia that mix nature and flavour.
Cultural routes with history
Catalonia is full of monasteries and hermitages hidden among mountains. Montserrat or Poblet are perfect for a day trip with a spiritual and historical touch. Both are integrated into spectacular natural environments, especially in autumn.
Tips for enjoying your autumn excursions
The success of a good route depends on both the destination and the preparation. Here are some practical tips based on experience:
● Wear layered clothes: mornings can be cold and evenings warm.
● Avoid the middle of the day: take advantage of the soft light of dawn or dusk.
● Check the weather forecast: autumn can be changeable, especially in mountain areas.
● Plan your route in advance: some natural areas have limited capacity or restricted areas.
● Enjoy without haste: the charm of autumn is in the small details: the sound of the leaves, the smell of the damp earth or the silence of the forest.
Experience autumn from a place with soul
Autumn excursions in Catalonia offer a different way of travelling: more leisurely, aware and connected to the environment. Each trail, each forest and each village has a different history, but they all share the same essence: the calm and beauty of nature in its fullness.
At Villa Engracia, we know that autumn is one of the best times to enjoy the natural environment of Catalonia. Our location, next to the Poblet Natural Park, is perfect for staying at our hotel and exploring trails, discovering centuries-old forests or simply unwinding surrounded by tranquillity. From here, you can plan your own autumn getaways in Catalonia and experience the most magical season of the year in an authentic way. We also show you where the best areas are to pick mushrooms of the season and the Cistercian Route, ideal for this season.