Poblet, calm between vineyards and hills

Villa Engracia, a rural retreat with soul in the heart of Poblet

Villa Engracia is more than just a place to stay, it is a getaway full of history, charm and character. Originally opened as a spa in 1888, today it still preserves the rural essence that makes it so special.

Its location in Les Masies, surrounded by the natural beauty of Poblet, is a real gift, forests, trails, cycling routes and the Poblet Monastery nearby for the perfect mix of nature and culture.

It also fits every kind of trip, rooms, rural apartments and farmhouses for couples, families or friends, with an outdoor pool, sports areas, pétanque, ping pong and spaces made for switching off.

The Font del Ferro restaurant adds local flavour with seasonal cuisine and nearby produce. Reviews highlight the peaceful setting, the friendly service and its rustic atmosphere.

Book Villa Engracia and experience Poblet at your own pace, with authenticity, calm and a touch of magic.

Poblet Monastery, a journey into the heart of medieval history

The Monastery of Santa Maria de Poblet in Tarragona is far more than an architectural gem, it is a fascinating destination where history comes alive through secrets that captivate every traveller. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this highlight of the Cistercian Route offers a truly unique experience.

Why add it to your next getaway?

• The royal pantheon: Home to the tombs of the monarchs of the Crown of Aragon, including James I the Conqueror. Suspended above arches, the tombs create a striking visual effect.

• A monumental puzzle: After being looted in the 19th century, the royal tombs were rebuilt in the 20th century by sculptor Frederic Marès, who pieced together thousands of shattered fragments in an extraordinary archaeological feat.

• A spiritual fortress: Beyond the peace of its cloister, the monastery is surrounded by an imposing 600 metre military wall and 12 defensive towers that once protected it from war.

• A thousand year old wine tradition: Cistercian monks pioneered viticulture in the region. Today, that legacy lives on in the vineyards around the monastery, perfect for wine tourism.

• Modern secrets: The site safeguards the valuable Tarradellas Archive, a documentary treasure key to understanding contemporary history.

Poblet is the perfect escape for those looking to unwind in total peace, admire exceptional Gothic architecture and discover a place where royalty, war and mysticism come together.

L’Espluga de Francolí is a charming inland town in the province of Tarragona, set in the heart of the Conca de Barberà and surrounded by vineyards, rural landscapes and the nearby Poblet Natural Park. It is a great choice for families and couples looking for a quieter side of Catalonia, with caves, medieval history, wine culture and easy day trips all close by.

Make sure you visit:

• The Caves of l’Espluga de Francolí, one of the town’s most impressive attractions and a fascinating journey into its geological and prehistoric past.
• The Terra Museum, a great place to discover rural life, traditions and the relationship between people and the land.
• Fassina Balanyà, a former 19th-century distillery where visitors can learn about the production of aguardiente.
• The Templar and Hospitaller Route, an immersive way to explore the medieval history of the town.
• The Modernist Winery, closely linked to the area’s long wine-making tradition.

Family-friendly activities:

• Take a guided tour of the caves and learn how the landscape and human life evolved over thousands of years.
• Follow one of the easy walking routes around the town and its natural surroundings.
• Visit the old church and climb the bell tower for lovely views over l’Espluga de Francolí.
• Enjoy a relaxed cultural morning combining the Terra Museum and Fassina Balanyà.
• Discover the town centre at a slow pace, with stops for local sweets and traditional shops.

Make sure you try these local delicacies:

• Carquinyolis, the famous crunchy almond biscuits typical of l’Espluga de Francolí.
• Wines and cavas from the D.O. Conca de Barberà, especially those made with local grape varieties.
• Extra virgin olive oil from the area, perfect for tasting with bread or local dishes.
• Traditional Catalan inland cuisine, with grilled meats, seasonal vegetables and hearty homemade recipes.
• Local pastries such as neules and other dry sweets often found in traditional bakeries.

Make the most of your visit and go to...

• Poblet Monastery, just a few minutes away and one of the great historic treasures of Catalonia.
• Montblanc, a beautiful medieval town with walls, cobbled streets and plenty of charm.
• The Prades Mountains, ideal for nature lovers and scenic walks.
• The Cistercian Route, perfect for discovering monasteries, wine landscapes and historic villages.
• Tarragona, a great option for a longer day trip with Roman heritage and Mediterranean atmosphere.