Siurana is one of the most beautiful day trips you can take from Cal Xolva. It’s about 52 km from Llardecans, just over an hour on local roads, and combines a medieval village, a viewpoint over the reservoir and walking routes through the Serra de Prades and the Montsant. Here’s what to see in Siurana, how to get there and how to plan your day.
How to get to Siurana from Llardecans
The drive leaves Llardecans towards La Granadella and crosses the Segrià, Les Garrigues and the Priorat through almond and olive groves. It’s a route to enjoy without hurrying: there are small villages and viewpoints over the ridges of the Serra de Montsant Natural Park that are worth a stop.
- Distance: about 52 km from Cal Xolva
- Time: just over an hour by car
- Parking: leave the car in the paid car park, about a 10-minute walk from the village entrance
What to see in Siurana
Siurana belongs to the municipality of Cornudella de Montsant and only around thirty people live there. Small as it is, its historic centre is listed as a Cultural Asset of National Interest: cobbled streets, stone houses and an impressive setting on top of a cliff.
The Romanesque church of Santa Maria
It’s the jewel of the village: a small, beautifully preserved Romanesque church, built after the Christian conquest of Siurana in the 12th century.
The castle and the legend of the Moorish Queen
Few remains of the old castle survive, but its story is a big one: Siurana was the last Muslim stronghold in Catalonia. That’s the origin of the legend of the Salt de la Reina Mora (the Moorish Queen’s Leap), which tells how Queen Abdelazia jumped off the cliff on horseback rather than surrender.
The Siurana viewpoint
From the village viewpoint you can see the limestone cliffs, the Siurana river valley and the reservoir below. It’s the best spot for photos, especially early in the morning or at sunset.
Walks and outdoor activities
- Loop around the Siurana reservoir: about 11 km and around 3 hours on foot, with constant views of the water and the cliffs
- Short walks: La Trona or the Toll de la Roca Foradada, to stretch your legs without a full day’s hike
- Toll del Forn: a pebble beach where the river flows in, with a small waterfall
- Water: you can go kayaking on the reservoir and there are swimming areas near the dam (check current regulations before you go)
- Climbing: Siurana’s rock walls are world-famous among climbers
Where to eat in Siurana and Cornudella
There are restaurants in Siurana itself, and in Cornudella de Montsant, a few minutes away, you’ll find more options and wineries you can visit. It’s a great way to end the day tasting wines from the Priorat and the Montsant.
Suggested day itinerary from Cal Xolva
- 9:00 – Leave Llardecans towards La Granadella
- 10:15 – Arrive at the car park and stroll around the village of Siurana
- 11:00 – Church of Santa Maria, castle and viewpoint
- 12:00 – A short walk or down to the reservoir
- 14:00 – Lunch in Siurana or Cornudella de Montsant
- 16:30 – Visit a winery and head back to Cal Xolva for dinner in the garden
Tips for visiting Siurana
- The best seasons are spring and autumn; in summer, go early in the morning
- It gets busy at weekends: arrive early to find parking
- Wear comfortable shoes; the streets are cobbled and steep
- If you’re going with a large group, book lunch in advance
Frequently asked questions about Siurana
How long do you need to visit Siurana?
You can see the village in one or two hours. Add a walk around the reservoir and lunch, and it makes a perfect day trip.
Is Siurana good for children?
Yes. The village is small, the viewpoint is impressive and the short walks and the Toll del Forn are easy. Just keep an eye on them near the cliffs.
Where to stay near Siurana?
Cal Xolva is a rural house in Llardecans, just over an hour from Siurana, ideal for groups and families. It has a garden and barbecue to end the day together. Check our rooms and spaces and rates, or ask about availability.
Plan your getaway: combine Siurana with the starry skies of Llardecans and the village’s treasures, such as the Tomàs Piñol Pharmacy or its nights of sky and silence.
