Escornalbou Castle-Monastery
Reopened after several years of restoration, the Escornalbou Castle-Monastery is shining again as one of the must-see visits in the Camp de Tarragona. Between Romanesque walls and viewpoint gardens, you’ll discover the site’s history, the red-hued landscapes of the Baix Camp and the stately home of Eduard Toda, diplomat and patron of the Catalan ‘Renaixença’
A unique place where heritage, nature and culture come together. Framed by red cliffs and pine forests, the Sant Miquel d’Escornalbou complex blends castle, former monastery and an early-20th-century stately residence. The property was acquired in 1911 by the Reus-born diplomat and scholar Eduard Toda, who restored it to his own taste and turned it into a summer home. The tour takes in drawing rooms, a library, travel collections and spaces such as the Romanesque church and the cloister-garden, helping visitors understand the monastery’s role within the medieval barony of Escornalbou. A singular ensemble that distils history, landscape and the spirit of the Renaixença.
The highlight arrives at the cloister’s garden-viewpoint and along the Passeig dels Frares, which leads to the hermitage of Santa Bàrbara (649 metres) — a privileged balcony over the Baix Camp and the coast. It’s a short, highly scenic walk, perfect to round off the cultural visit with nature and sweeping views.
Getting there
The site sits on the carretera d’Escornalbou (43771 Riudecanyes). Driving is the easiest option and pairs well with hiking or MTB routes on the waymarked trails nearby.
How to get to the Castell Monestir d’Escornalbou
Where to eat: Ca l’Amadeu
Ten minutes from the castle, in Vilanova d’Escornalbou, Ca l’Amadeu —run by the Romero brothers— is our pick in the area. It’s well known for hearty fork breakfasts (cold cuts, omelettes, tripe, cap i pota, truita amb suc…) and seasonal menus: wild mushrooms in autumn, calçotades in winter and rice dishes year-round. Traditional Catalan slow-cooked fare using local, seasonal produce. Expect roast meats and lamb, cod, stews and homemade desserts in a friendly, village setting. Booking advised, especially at weekends.
- Address: Plaça de la Font s/n, Vilanova d’Escornalbou
- Bookings: +34 618 746 251 · Closed on Mondays.
- More info on their Instagram
