The Cistercian Route, a genuine combination of nature, heritage and landscape

The Cistercian Route is a fascinating journey that transports you back to medieval times through three historic monasteries in Catalonia: the Poblet Monastery, the Santes Creus Monastery, and the Vallbona de les Monges Monastery. Through idyllic landscapes, you'll discover majestic monasteries that bear witness to the architectural and religious legacy of the era. Each monastery hides secrets and legends from the past, transporting you back to a distant and magical era:

The Monastery of Poblet

Located in the Conca de Barberà region, this is a jewel of Cistercian architecture. With over eight centuries of history, this monastery is a testament to religious devotion and monastic dedication. With its elegant cloisters and impressive Gothic church, Poblet offers a unique experience, captivating visitors with its majesty and serene atmosphere.

The Monastery of Santes Creus

Located in Conca de Barberà, this medieval gem transports us back to a distant past. With its tranquil cloisters and Gothic arcades, the monastery captivates with its sober and elegant architecture. A place of history and spirituality that invites contemplation and the discovery of its cultural richness.

The Monastery of Vallbona de les Monges

Located in the Lands of Lleida, it is a remedy for the soul. With its stone walls and rural setting, the monastery exudes a special peace. The Cistercian nuns who live there keep the tradition and spiritual life alive in this sacred place. A visit to Vallbona de les Monges is like a journey into a world of silence and contemplation.

Along more than 100 kilometers of a circular route following the GR 175, passing through Alt Camp, Conca de Barberà, and Urgell, the Cistercian Route awaits us to reveal all its charms. Thanks to an exceptional combination of landscape, heritage, and nature, the route offers unique and genuine experiences, such as listening to the chants of the monks at the Poblet Monastery or participating in the prayers of the nuns of Vallbona.

The Cistercian Route is a journey through time, an enriching experience for history and culture lovers, and an opportunity to connect with our deepest essence in a serene and inspiring setting.

From femturisme.cat we encourage you to discover the beauty of this historic route in southern Catalonia.

Cistercian Route on foot or by bicycle

The Cistercian Route can be explored both on foot and by bicycle. For those who enjoy long walks, we suggest the Cistercian Route (GR175), either on foot or by bicycle. It is approximately 105 km long and is well marked with the red and white GR markers.

As this is a circular route, you can start from any point along the route. If you want to complete the entire itinerary, we recommend planning the stages over several days to maximize your enjoyment, allowing plenty of time for each section. You can also take simple, independent sections suitable for the whole family and combining them with all kinds of activities: wine tourism, visiting small wineries and cooperatives in Conca de Barberà, local artisan workshops, pottery in Poblet, etc.

We can divide it into three stages, from monastery to monastery.

• Santes Creus - Poblet: 35.3 km and 7 hours and a half.
• Poblet - Vallbona de les Monges: 23.55 km and 5 and a quarter hours.
• Vallbona de les Monges - Santes Creus: 45.3 km and 9 and a half hours.

This hike allows us to explore the terrain where Catalonia's most important Cistercian monasteries are located. If you have time, you can visit some of the nearby towns we mentioned, as well as the monasteries and the natural landscapes surrounding them. A highly recommended option.

You will find more information about the Cistercian Route at www.larutadelcister.info.