Other Things to See and Do


A semi-rural holiday away from the crowds gives you chance to kick-back and relax – but it doesn't mean it has to be boring! This area will amaze you with the variety of things to see and do and the chance to experience and understand the true culture and history of Spain.

If you like historical sites and architecture you will not be disappointed.   Ancient villages and cave paintings dating back to around the 5th century BC have been found. Later came the Roman Empire, the Moorish occupation, the Knights Templar and the Medieval age; each of them leaving behind an enduring legacy which can be discovered by visiting the Roman remains, castles, monasteries and gothic cathedrals of this region.  You can wander the narrow Medieval streets of the local villages -many of which still specialise in their traditional handicrafts such as pottery and basket-making - pretty and practical they make lovely souvenirs of your visit here.



You can take river trips by boat or you can be independent and hire a kayak. Great fun and a wonderful way to view the scenery. Horseriding is another option.  Or how about a trip in a 4x4 trip with guide up into the mountains? If you like wine, you can visit the local cellars to sample and buy.  Another informative and fun visit is to the local honey producers where you can put on full protective gear to see the "bee-cities".

And of course the Spanish in general know how to party!  If you take your holiday during July and August you are almost sure to catch one village or another celebrating their Fiesta Major. Not put on as a spectacle for tourists this is just the locals having fun and you are welcome to join in with them.

Below is just a sample of places to visit during your stay here – but nothing can beat coming here and discovering this rich heritage for yourself.

Mora d’Ebre Fiestas: The Mora Morisca in early July celebrates the Christian, Jewish and Moorish history of this town. The whole town is alive with entertainment, music and dance, handicrafts, food-stalls and parades from the 3 cultures. The Fiesta Major is at the end of August with a full week of entertainment, activities and fireworks and you can dance in the street to live music until the early hours of the morning!


Fiesta2

 
Miravet: A castle going back to the times of the Arabs and the Knights Templar dominates the village. In August the “siege of Miravet” is performed and the village is also famed for its beautiful handcrafted pottery. 

Horta de San Juan: Beautiful village with winding, narrow streets and Renaissance and Gothic architecture. There is a Picasso Centre in commemoration of its close connections with the artist who spent two periods of his life here.

Benifallet: The Meravelles Caves in the Cardo mountains have fascinating formations of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and eccentrics.

Tarragona: A cultural heritage site due to its numerous Roman remains such as a Roman aqueduct, amphitheatre and circus. Tarragona is the capital of our Province and also has many fashionable shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.

Viaduct Tarra2 


Barcelona:
The vibrant city of Barcelona is only 2 hours away by train or car. Well worth a day trip from here or follow the example of many of our guests and combine a few days in the city followed by a relaxing week here in the countryside.

Reus: Claimed to be the birthplace of architect Anton Gaudi, it has many interesting Modernist buildings, an Art and History museum and a compact pedestrianised shopping area.

Port Aventura Theme Park and Costa Caribe Water Park:  The young at heart can enjoy an action packed day out of white knuckle rides and a variety of shows and entertainment at Port Aventura. Or enjoy the waterslides and wave pools at Costa Caribe.

Beaches: The golden sands of the Costa Dorada are only 30 minutes away. Take your pick from deserted coves, pretty fishing ports or if you are really missing a burger and some hustle and bustle you can visit the busier resorts of Cambrils and Salou!







Copyright Ladena Rowlands -River Ebro Apartments 2005-2008