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Tarragona
Terra Alta

Horta De Sant Joan

Attractions and Places To See around Horta De Sant Joan - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Horta De Sant Joan is a medieval village located in the Terra Alta region of Tarragona, Spain. The area is characterized by its historic center, which is a cultural asset of national interest, and its natural setting within the Els Ports Natural Park. It offers a blend of monumental structures, such as the Church of Sant Joan Baptista, and diverse natural features, including rivers like the Canaletes and significant rock formations. This region is also notable for its connection to artist Pablo Picasso and its extensive vineyards.

Best attractions and places to see around Horta De Sant Joan

  • The most popular attractions is Old railway viaduct, a bridge that leads through a gorge. It features a selfie holder for group photos and is family-friendly.
  • Another must-see spot is Via Verde de la Terra Alta, a cycle way following an old railway line. This route crosses tunnels and viaducts through wooded and rural landscapes.
  • Visitors also love Fontcalda, a natural monument with a thermal basin in a gorge. Its 22-degree water makes it suitable for all seasons.
  • Horta De Sant Joan is known for its historic sites, natural parks, and greenways. Visitors can explore medieval architecture, significant natural features, and routes for active tourism.
  • The attractions around Horta De Sant Joan are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 140 upvotes and 16 photos shared across 24 highlights.

Last updated: April 24, 2026

Via Verde de la Terra Alta

Highlight • Cycleway

The Terra Alta Greenway follows the section of the old railway between La Puebla de Híjar (Aragón) and Tortosa. During the route tunnels and viaducts are crossed, as well as wooded landscapes and rural environments.

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Old railway viaduct

Highlight • Bridge

At a lofty height, an old railway viaduct leads right through the gorge - and on the other side the Vía Verde disappears into a tunnel again.

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Bot Station Bar (Railbus)

Highlight • Cafe

Old railway station in the municipality of Bot, in Terra Alta, which belonged to the Val de Zafán railway. The railway complex that connected La Puebla de Híjar, in the province of Teruel, with Tortosa, in Tarragona, has been replaced by a greenway. In the old Bot station there is currently a bar where you can stop during the route.

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Val de Zafán Greenway

Highlight • Cycleway

Stage 3. Amposta/Horta de Sant Joan
116.1 kilometers. 690 positive meters.

Amposta is the entrance to the bikepacking route in the unique landscapes of the Ebro delta, an immense alluvial plain formed by sediments washed away in the waters of the river and traditionally dedicated to the cultivation of rice. The cycling route leaves Amposta along the right bank of the Ebro and follows a path set in a pleasant corridor of poplars and riverside vegetation between the river and the rice plantations. The land is completely flat, very comfortable, at various points there are spaces with benches and information panels on environmental values. The trail is a kind of highway in the delta for fans of active tourism and recreational leisure, it is usually frequented by cyclists, hikers, runners and walkers. In Deltebre the route changes shore through the impressive Lo Passador bridge, inaugurated in 2010 and converted into an architectural icon in the river landscape of the delta. At the Sant Jaume d'Enveja pier, next to the bridge, a boat crossing operated until recently. The next section is a bike path with gardens, kiosks and recreational spaces until a roundabout where another path begins parallel to the Ebro Canal that ends in the tourist areas of Pas de Buda, the Las Golondrinas pier and the Riumar marina. The end of the Nature Trail and the GR-99 trail appear shortly after, at the mouth of the Ebro in the Mediterranean, where the Garxal lighthouse and the curious tower of the Mirador del Zigurat are located, isolated and solitary, an authentic finis terrae on the shore from sea.

The cycle route takes the same route back to Deltebre and continues along the right of the river without crossing Lo Passador, following the milestones of the Nature Trail towards Camarles, but we do not reach the end. At the Mare de Déu hermitage, where the slender Torre de l'Aldea stands on the remains of an ancient Arab watchtower, we take a detour marked with milestones of the cycling routes of the Ebro Delta Natural Park towards Amposta, connecting with the bike lane that leads to the iron bridge of Tortosa along the Ebro Canal. And it is time to undertake the crossing of the Coastal Mountain Range inland along the greenway. The route passes through Xerta again, runs through the warm rural environments of the Terres del Ebre and goes up to the Benifallet station, converted into tourist accommodation and a restaurant, a good place to regain strength before entering the mountains. The route of the old Val de Zafán railway is a great work of railway engineering; it was necessary to drill 28 tunnels in the inhospitable mountains of Terra Alta and the wild canyon of the Canaletes river, far from towns and inhabited places. In the tunnels there are all kinds of equipment, some have automatic lighting and others are dark, in any case the headlight or front light on the bike is essential to see in the dark and to warn other cyclists, it is a very frequented route. and it is normal to cross paths with other users of the greenway. The surface is the usual pavement for cycling lanes, perfect for gravel bikes. Inside the tunnels it can be asphalt, dirt or with puddles due to leaks, but it always has good cyclability. The only place where the continuity of the train track is broken is precisely in the tunnel that suffered the collapse that caused the definitive closure of the track in 1973, at the exit of the Obaga dels Argilars canyon. The Nature Trail surrounds the destroyed tunnel, passes through the Port del Comte station and enters the Gandesa river plain, where the town of Bot is located, the only town in Terra Alta at the foot of the railway line. In the station area there is an old railway carriage converted into a railway bus with a bar and terrace.

The surface of the greenway is good and comfortable from the rice fields of the Ebro delta to the towns of the Coastal Mountains, a constant false plain from the seashore to Horta de Sant Joan, accumulating some seven hundred meters of positive slope, although The kilometers are very entertaining and fly by. The path is spectacular, it crosses countless tunnels, viaducts, deep ravines, isolated and solitary mountain ranges and old stations converted for new tourist uses that are places of frequent meetings with other cyclists. The stage ends in Horta de Sant Joan, it is close to the road, offers complete services and has an old town declared a Historic-Artistic Site, with narrow streets with a medieval atmosphere, palaces, stately mansions and a rich monumental heritage at the foot of the Natural Park. dels Ports.

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Fontcalda

Highlight • Natural Monument

Fontcalda, a natural thermal basin inserted in a wonderful gorge. To get there you have to get off the track and go down a steep and short descent. The water temperature is 22 degrees, therefore good for all seasons. It is highly recommended to bring a bathing suit: resisting those waters is difficult.

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Popular around Horta De Sant Joan

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Tips from the Community

Pepe Arnal
May 17, 2025, Viejo viaducto del tren

It's a Green Route suitable for all levels, well-maintained, with beautiful scenery and also many tunnels. You'll need to bring a light, as they don't illuminate themselves.

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Amazing greenway but mandatory to have lights, the tunnels have but we found some that didn't work and some of them are long and its pitch black inside because some of them are not straight

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very beautiful landscape, with only a slight incline.

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Tip: Be sure to take a look into the gorge.

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Beautiful old buildings, some with gravity

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Wonderful place to take a break. It is a popular place, nice for people watching

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Stage 3. Amposta/Horta de Sant Joan 116.1 kilometers. 690 positive meters. Amposta is the entrance to the bikepacking route in the unique landscapes of the Ebro delta, an immense alluvial plain formed by sediments washed away in the waters of the river and traditionally dedicated to the cultivation of rice. The cycling route leaves Amposta along the right bank of the Ebro and follows a path set in a pleasant corridor of poplars and riverside vegetation between the river and the rice plantations. The land is completely flat, very comfortable, at various points there are spaces with benches and information panels on environmental values. The trail is a kind of highway in the delta for fans of active tourism and recreational leisure, it is usually frequented by cyclists, hikers, runners and walkers. In Deltebre the route changes shore through the impressive Lo Passador bridge, inaugurated in 2010 and converted into an architectural icon in the river landscape of the delta. At the Sant Jaume d'Enveja pier, next to the bridge, a boat crossing operated until recently. The next section is a bike path with gardens, kiosks and recreational spaces until a roundabout where another path begins parallel to the Ebro Canal that ends in the tourist areas of Pas de Buda, the Las Golondrinas pier and the Riumar marina. The end of the Nature Trail and the GR-99 trail appear shortly after, at the mouth of the Ebro in the Mediterranean, where the Garxal lighthouse and the curious tower of the Mirador del Zigurat are located, isolated and solitary, an authentic finis terrae on the shore from sea. The cycle route takes the same route back to Deltebre and continues along the right of the river without crossing Lo Passador, following the milestones of the Nature Trail towards Camarles, but we do not reach the end. At the Mare de Déu hermitage, where the slender Torre de l'Aldea stands on the remains of an ancient Arab watchtower, we take a detour marked with milestones of the cycling routes of the Ebro Delta Natural Park towards Amposta, connecting with the bike lane that leads to the iron bridge of Tortosa along the Ebro Canal. And it is time to undertake the crossing of the Coastal Mountain Range inland along the greenway. The route passes through Xerta again, runs through the warm rural environments of the Terres del Ebre and goes up to the Benifallet station, converted into tourist accommodation and a restaurant, a good place to regain strength before entering the mountains. The route of the old Val de Zafán railway is a great work of railway engineering; it was necessary to drill 28 tunnels in the inhospitable mountains of Terra Alta and the wild canyon of the Canaletes river, far from towns and inhabited places. In the tunnels there are all kinds of equipment, some have automatic lighting and others are dark, in any case the headlight or front light on the bike is essential to see in the dark and to warn other cyclists, it is a very frequented route. and it is normal to cross paths with other users of the greenway. The surface is the usual pavement for cycling lanes, perfect for gravel bikes. Inside the tunnels it can be asphalt, dirt or with puddles due to leaks, but it always has good cyclability. The only place where the continuity of the train track is broken is precisely in the tunnel that suffered the collapse that caused the definitive closure of the track in 1973, at the exit of the Obaga dels Argilars canyon. The Nature Trail surrounds the destroyed tunnel, passes through the Port del Comte station and enters the Gandesa river plain, where the town of Bot is located, the only town in Terra Alta at the foot of the railway line. In the station area there is an old railway carriage converted into a railway bus with a bar and terrace. The surface of the greenway is good and comfortable from the rice fields of the Ebro delta to the towns of the Coastal Mountains, a constant false plain from the seashore to Horta de Sant Joan, accumulating some seven hundred meters of positive slope, although The kilometers are very entertaining and fly by. The path is spectacular, it crosses countless tunnels, viaducts, deep ravines, isolated and solitary mountain ranges and old stations converted for new tourist uses that are places of frequent meetings with other cyclists. The stage ends in Horta de Sant Joan, it is close to the road, offers complete services and has an old town declared a Historic-Artistic Site, with narrow streets with a medieval atmosphere, palaces, stately mansions and a rich monumental heritage at the foot of the Natural Park. dels Ports.

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2

0

There is a selfie holder at the beginning of the bridge so you can take a nice group photo.

Translated by Google

6

1

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Horta de Sant Joan?

The region is rich in natural beauty, largely due to its location within the Els Ports Natural Park. You can discover diverse landscapes including wild pines and holm oaks, and spot wildlife like wild goats. Notable features include the majestic Fontcalda, a natural thermal basin nestled in a gorge, and the distinctive Roques de Benet rock formations. The area is also crossed by the Algars, Estrets, and Canaletes rivers, offering picturesque views and opportunities for exploration.

Are there good hiking trails near Horta de Sant Joan?

Yes, Horta de Sant Joan is an excellent base for hiking. The hiking trails around Horta de Sant Joan offer routes for various skill levels. Popular options include the moderate 'Els Estrets d'Arnes and Toll Blau' trail, which takes you through stunning river landscapes, and more challenging routes like the 'Estels del Sud Trail'. You can also find trails leading up Santa Bàrbara Mountain to ancient chapels and caves.

What cycling opportunities are available in the area?

The region is famous for its Greenways. The Via Verde de la Terra Alta, also known as the Val de Zafán Greenway, is a highlight. This old railway line has been converted into a path perfect for cycling, walking, or even horseback riding, taking you through tunnels, over viaducts, and across wooded and rural landscapes. It's a family-friendly route, with highlights like the Old railway viaduct and the Bot Station Bar (Railbus), a great spot for a break. You can find many MTB trails around Horta de Sant Joan as well.

Where can I find natural swimming spots around Horta de Sant Joan?

A popular natural bathing spot is Les Olles d'Horta de Sant Joan on the Canaletes River, featuring natural pools ideal for swimming. Additionally, Fontcalda offers a thermal basin with 22-degree water, suitable for swimming in all seasons, though it requires a short, steep descent to reach.

What historical sites can I visit in Horta de Sant Joan?

Horta de Sant Joan boasts a rich medieval history. Explore the historic center with its cobbled streets, the 12th-century Church of Sant Joan Baptista, and the 16th-century Renaissance-style Town Hall, which houses the Old Jail. Don't miss the porticoed Plaça de Sant Salvador d'Horta and historic houses like Casa Colau. Outside the village, the Convent of Sant Salvador d'Horta, built with Templar and Hospitaller contributions, offers a glimpse into the region's past.

What is Horta de Sant Joan's connection to Pablo Picasso?

Horta de Sant Joan holds significant importance in the life and work of Pablo Picasso. He spent time here in 1897-98 and again in 1909, famously stating, "Everything I know I learned in Horta." The Picasso Center, located in the old hospital, showcases over 200 works and helps visitors understand how the local landscape inspired his early artistic development.

Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Horta de Sant Joan?

Absolutely! The Via Verde de la Terra Alta is perfect for cycling families, offering a safe and scenic path through tunnels and over viaducts. The Old railway viaduct even has a selfie holder for group photos. Natural swimming spots like Les Olles d'Horta de Sant Joan provide a fun way to cool off. Exploring the medieval village center is also an engaging activity for all ages.

When is the best time of year to visit Horta de Sant Joan for outdoor activities?

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Summer can be warm, but the natural swimming spots provide a refreshing escape. The thermal waters of Fontcalda are suitable for all seasons due to their consistent temperature.

What can I expect from the Els Ports Natural Park?

The Els Ports Natural Park is a rugged and stunning natural environment. It features dramatic limestone formations, deep gorges, and extensive forests of wild pines and holm oaks. It's a haven for diverse wildlife, including wild goats and otters. The park offers numerous opportunities for hiking, canyoning, climbing, and spelunking, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Are there any unique natural landmarks to see?

Beyond the general beauty of Els Ports, you can visit Lo Parot, a monumental olive tree over 2,000 years old and standing over 8 meters high, declared a monumental tree in 1990. The striking Roques de Benet rock formations also create a characteristic and memorable landscape within the municipal area.

Can I experience local food and wine in Horta de Sant Joan?

Yes, the Terra Alta region is known for its agricultural produce, including extensive olive, almond, and fruit trees, as well as vineyards. You can explore modern wineries, such as Les Vinyes del Convent, which offer tours and wine tastings. The region is particularly famous for its Terra Alta DO wines, especially the White Garnatxa variety, providing a delightful culinary experience.

What kind of views can I expect on the trails?

The trails around Horta de Sant Joan offer a variety of breathtaking views. From the Old railway viaduct, you'll get a lofty perspective of the gorge. Hiking in the Els Ports Natural Park provides panoramic vistas of rugged mountains and lush valleys. The Fontcalda area offers stunning views of the thermal basin set within a dramatic gorge. Many routes provide scenic overlooks of the medieval village and surrounding agricultural landscapes.

Are there places to stop for refreshments or a meal along the cycling routes?

Yes, along the Via Verde de la Terra Alta, you'll find convenient stops. The Bot Station Bar (Railbus), located in the old railway station, is a popular spot to take a break, enjoy a drink, and people-watch. There are also other facilities and small towns along the route where you can find cafes and restaurants.

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