Discover Miravet: a Templar castle and the Ebro

Miravet combines a striking location on the Ebro with a historic town centre and traces of different eras. The Castell de Miravet stands on a hill: the fortress is surrounded by a 25-metre-high wall and commands views of the river and the surrounding countryside. This gives visitors several different ways to plan their stay, from history and art to walking trails and activities on the river.

Castle, town centre and history

The Castell de Miravet is closely linked to the history of the Templars. They made the fortress the seat of the Templar province of Catalonia and Aragon. Its hilltop position, high wall and views over the Ebro and countryside together define the impression made by the building; the castle can also be seen as part of the surrounding landscape.

In the historic town centre, houses rise above the river and along the hills and rocky cliffs. Streets with traditional arcades and old houses complete the picture. If you are interested in the history of the neighbourhood, you can find out about guided tours of Cap de la Vila; check the programme for dates in advance.

The Palau de Miravet houses the Centre d’Art Joaquim Mir, an exhibition space in honour of the Catalan Impressionist painter. The gallery displays nine true-to-scale reproductions of his paintings. Visits for small groups are by arrangement. This differs from the scheduled guided tours of Cap de la Vila: a prior appointment is required to visit the art centre.

Pottery is also part of the town’s character: seven active workshops are located in the Raval dels Canteres neighbourhood. If you would like to visit a particular workshop, check its opening hours and visitor arrangements in advance. On the Ebro, the weir known as the Molinot preserves a medieval lock system; it can be reached from the river by boat or kayak.

Hiking trails, the river and climbing

One option for a hike is the section of the GR 99 from Miravet to Benifallet. It passes through Cap de la Vila and follows trails close to the river for twelve kilometres before joining the Via Verda. The mountain trails of La Cameta Coixa offer a different way to plan an outing: the network comprises three circular routes starting in Miravet, combining nature, history and landscape. Suggested starting points are the end of the historic town centre at Cap de Vila or the castle car park. Check the latest information about the trail and access points before setting out.

The water also offers a distinct perspective on the surrounding area. The kayak stretch from Miravet to Benifallet offers views of Miravet’s hanging houses and the landscape of the Pas de Barrufemes. Check water conditions and availability with the operator before booking. The Pas de Barrufemes itself is a rugged, rocky and wooded stretch through which the Ebro flows at Miravet; here, the river marks the boundary between Ribera d’Ebre and Baix Ebre.

Those interested in climbing will find a sector at the foot of the castle, on the Ebro, with around 30 sport climbing routes. The Morral de la Covalta is a separate, distinctive landmark: this steep limestone cliff stands above the Ebro and is associated with traditional climbing.

Getting there and local flavours

Miravet has no direct public transport connection; travelling by private vehicle is recommended. As driving through the town centre is difficult, one recommendation is to park at the landing stage and continue by boat. Check the latest transport connections and local information about access before travelling. One special way to cross the Ebro is the traditional Pas de Barca de Miravet: its platform rests on two original llaguts and moves with the river current. The ferry can be used on foot or with a vehicle; check its current operating hours before travelling.

Local food culture includes pastissets, a traditional pastry of Islamic origin from the Terres de l’Ebre, traditionally filled with angel-hair jam. Les Àrgoles in Miravet produces and sells extra virgin olive oil, including Arbequina and Picual varieties. If you specifically want to buy oil, check the current sales arrangements in advance.

Miravet is also home to a winery that produces and bottles wines and wine products rooted in a family tradition. It is located on the road from Miravet towards Benissanet, at kilometre 2, and is part of the DO Tarragona wine route. Visits are available by prior reservation; check the current visitor arrangements before planning your time there.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Vilanova D'escornalbou, Bellmunt del Priorat, El Lligallo Del Gànguil, Aiguamúrcia, Siurana, La Morera De Montsant, Tivissa, Horta De Sant Joan.

For the main travel overview: Tarragona.