If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to walk through centuries of history, breathing in the silence of ancient monasteries and passing through villages with a soul of their own, the Cistercian Route offers you just that. This circular itinerary through the province of Tarragona combines heritage, hiking and rural culture like few other routes in Catalonia. From Villa Engracia, where we welcome those looking for an authentic experience, we tell you everything you need to know if you are thinking of touring it.
The Cistercian Route is a tourist and cultural route that connects three of the most important Cistercian monasteries in Catalonia: Santes Creus, Vallbona de les Monges and Poblet, the latter declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It extends through the regions of Alt Camp, Conca de Barberà and Urgell, forming a circuit of approximately 105 kilometres ideal for walking, cycling or driving, depending on the time available and the focus of the trip.
The name comes from the link with the Cistercian order, which left a deep mark on medieval Catalan architecture and religious life. But beyond the spiritual, the route is a living reflection of the territory: charming villages, pine forests, vineyards and people who keep centuries-old traditions alive.
For those who want to enjoy it on foot, the GR-175 trail allows you to travel the Cistercian Route in stages of about 15-20 km per day, which makes it accessible to hikers with an average physical shape. The route is circular and perfectly signposted.
You can also do the Cistercian Route in one day if you have a car, although we recommend at least a full weekend to experience it without haste. By bike, it is a very popular option among cyclists, with accessible sections and services designed for them (rental, luggage transport, bike-friendly accommodation).
It is, without a doubt, the most impressive. Surrounded by walls, this monumental complex is one of the largest Cistercian monasteries in Europe. It can be visited on your own or with a guide, and stands out for its abbey church, the cloister, the chapter house and the royal tombs.
Located in Aiguamúrcia, this monastery was the residence of nobles and kings. Although there is no longer an active monastic community, its preservation is excellent. Visiting it is immersing yourself in centuries of history and being able to freely explore its spaces provides an unusual feeling of freedom.
The smallest and most secluded of the three, but also the most intimate. Unlike the other two, it is still home to a community of Cistercian nuns, which gives it a special air. Its Romanesque church and Gothic façade are jewels that are worth contemplating without haste.
Each region offers villages that enrich the itinerary. Some of our favorites from Villa Engracia are:
Spring and autumn are the ideal times. In summer it can be quite hot, especially in the sections most exposed to the sun. In winter, although quieter, there are fewer services open.
The difficulty is moderate, ideal for families accustomed to walking or groups of friends looking for an active getaway. There are gentle slopes and good signage, which makes it very safe.
If you want to experience the Cistercian Route from the inside, calmly and comfortably, from Villa Engracia we offer you a unique proposal: stay in the middle of the Poblet forest, in a privileged environment. Our rural apartments and charming rooms are just 500 metres from the Monastery of Poblet, allowing you to visit this Cistercian emblem without the need for a car. In addition, we have a restaurant, swimming pool in summer and multiple hiking trails that leave from the door. Many of our guests tell us that being based here allows them to comfortably travel the Cistercian Route in stages, combining history, local gastronomy and rest in the middle of nature.
The Cistercian Route in one day is possible if you are only interested in seeing the three monasteries in a panoramic way. In this case, we recommend:
The Cistercian Route is not just a physical path between monasteries. It is an inner journey, a reencounter with history, spirituality and rural beauty. Whether it’s a weekend, a long vacation, or a cultural getaway, this itinerary will leave you more connected to the territory.
And if you decide to do it, we are waiting for you at Villa Engracia with open arms. From here, it will be a pleasure to help you plan your stages, discover the best corners and feel the magic of this land.
