Císter route

The route of the Royal Monasteries of Catalonia or Císter Route, is a route by the monasteries of Poblet, Santes Creus and Vallbona de les Monges.

The monastery of Poblet is one of the most important points of interest on this route, as it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991.

Through this route the visitor can visit different places of cultural and historical interest, scattered around the area, such as:

Museums
Churches
Convents
Castles
Hermitages
Shrines

The monasteries of the Cistercian Route

The Cistercian Route connects three major Cistercian monasteries in Catalonia: Poblet, Santes Creus, and Vallbona de les Monges. These monumental complexes offer a glimpse into centuries of history, architecture, and religious tradition on a journey through the interior of Tarragona.

The Monastery of Poblet, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its impressive architectural ensemble and for being one of the most important Cistercian monasteries in Europe. The Monastery of Santes Creus preserves a valuable medieval heritage, while Vallbona de les Monges is the only women's monastery on the route.

A perfect excursion to discover the cultural heritage of Catalonia and get to know a different part of the territory beyond the beaches of the Costa Dorada.

Towns of the Cistercian Route

The Cistercian Route is much more than a tour of monasteries. The itinerary crosses the landscapes of inland Tarragona and allows you to discover charming towns like Montblanc or l'Espluga de Francolí, where history, culture, and local traditions remain very much alive.

Following this route allows you to combine visits to historical monuments with walks through rural landscapes and discover towns with a rich heritage. Furthermore, the area offers various active tourism options, from hiking and cycling routes to experiences related to gastronomy and local products.

A great option for a day trip from Salou to discover the interior of the Costa Dorada at a different pace, enjoying its landscapes, heritage and the tranquility of its villages.

However, before publishing, I would check that the towns we mention correspond exactly to the Cistercian Route you want to present on the website. This way, we avoid including nearby towns that aren't strictly part of the route.