A day trip to Siurana from Cambrils
Siurana is a small medieval village, a place where time seems to stand still: cobbled streets, stone houses and a silence broken only by the wind.
It is only 50 km from Cambrils and makes for a perfect day trip to see spectacular scenery, learn a bit of history, go for a walk and enjoy a day away from the crowds.
How to get to Siurana?
Access is via a winding road and the village sits atop a cliff over 200 metres high.
On arrival, you must leave your car at the entrance, as cars are not permitted within the village.
What to see in Siurana?
Church of Santa María
A small Romanesque gem (12th–13th centuries), perfectly integrated into the landscape.
A single-nave church, it features a striking medieval façade with a decorated tympanum supported by columns with capitals carved with biblical figures and plant motifs. Opposite it, a green esplanade invites you to pause and enjoy the tranquillity.
Arab Castle
Siurana Castle, of Muslim origin (9th century), was a great fortress used to control the territory. Perched atop a limestone crag, it remained impregnable for centuries, until it finally fell. Bertran de Castellet, a knight who played an active role in the conquest of the Priorat, became lord and master of the castle and governor of Siurana.
Following the Christian conquest, it passed through the hands of various nobles, until King Philip IV ordered it to be demolished in the 17th century as a reprisal following the War of the Reapers.
Today the castle lies in ruins, but the defensive towers surrounding a large parade ground can still be seen, as Siurana Castle was always used for military purposes.
The Moorish Queen’s Leap
It is situated beneath the castle wall itself, protected by a fence.
Legend has it that Siurana was the last Muslim stronghold in Catalonia. When the Christian troops were on the verge of taking the fortress, Abd el-azia
(daughter of the Lord of Siurana) was holding a party in her chambers when she was taken by surprise by the attack, an arrow piercing through the window.
Seized by terror, she decided to flee and leap into the abyss with her horse rather than fall into the hands of the Christian enemy. The horse, seeing the imposing chasm, tried to stop, but the momentum was so strong that they plunged into the void.
Today, near the precipice, one can still see the deep mark left by the animal’s hoof on the rock as it tried to brake.
Endless viewpoints
Siurana’s main attraction is simply looking out over the abyss.
From various spots around the village, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the reservoir, the Serra de Montsant and the Prades mountains.
A perfect place to unwind and take in nature in its purest form.
Hiking and climbing
The area is a paradise for adventurers, as you can enjoy:
- Climbing on internationally renowned rock faces
- Routes through the Montsant
- Trails around the reservoir
Siurana Reservoir
Siurana Reservoir, set in magnificent surroundings, is the perfect way to round off the day’s outing.
At the reservoir, you can enjoy a swim in natural areas (such as Toll de la Palla) or explore the landscape by kayak with @canoakayaksiurana
Tips for your trip to Siurana
- Wear hiking boots with good grip (there are loose stones and uneven ground)
- Don’t get too close to the edge (there are no railings in many places)
- Avoid days with strong winds
- Take extra care if you’re travelling with children
- Visiting in spring and autumn is ideal for enjoying the best scenery without the crowds
- In summer it’s lovely but busy, and in winter it can seem magical.
As you’ll see, Siurana isn’t just a pretty village; it’s a blend of medieval history, wild scenery and legend. It’s one of those places where you can appreciate the silence whilst gazing at the horizon.
From our apartments and hotels in Cambrils, you’ll be just over an hour away from one of Catalonia’s wildest landscapes.
