The province of Tarragona hides an infinity of secret corners that combine nature, history and culture, offering unique experiences off the beaten path. From the mountains to the sea, Tarragona offers diverse and surprising landscapes. An example of this is the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de la Roca, located in Mont-roig del Camp; or the old Chartreuse factory in the municipality of Tarragona, where the famous green liqueur was produced until the last century.
For those seeking contact with nature, the province offers hidden gems such as the Toll de l’Olla, a natural pool located in the Montsant mountain range; or, if you are an architecture lover, you can visit the Sagrada Familia in Tarragona, which, although less known than its namesake in Barcelona, is a small architectural jewel that deserves a visit.
These places, among others, make Tarragona a region full of secrets to discover, where every corner holds a story, and every landscape offers a deep connection with the environment. With Shuttle2Sun‘s low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services, you can reach Tarragona and Costa Dorada, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station. Remember that you can book your transfer up to 24 hours in advance.
The old Chartreuse Factory, in the capital of Tarragona
The Chartreuse Factory in Tarragona is a modernist-style landmark that holds a rich history linked to the city and the famous green liqueur. The building, located in Plaça dels Infants, was originally built in 1857 as a textile factory, under the name Fabril Tarraconense, although this project failed.
In 1882, the Carthusian monks acquired the building and converted it into the Chartreuse Factory, where they produced the iconic liqueur until 1989, when production was moved to France. For more than a century, this factory was the heart of Chartreuse production in Tarragona, and although it closed its doors, the liqueur remains part of the city’s cultural identity.
The roman Quarry of Mèdol, a trip to the Ancient Ages
The Mèdol Quarry is one of the lesser-known places, but of greater historical value, in Tarragona. This roman quarry was used for centuries as the main source of limestone for the construction of many of the monuments of the ancient Tarraco, including the Roman amphitheater and circus.
Located about 6 km northeast of the city, this quarry is a true testimony to the influence of the Roman Empire in the region. What is most striking about this site is its central element: the Agulla del Mèdol, a 20-meter-high stone that was left standing as a marker of how far the material was quarried.
This space is part of the UNESCO World Heritage of Humanity, and although it is not as famous as the amphitheater or the ramparts, it is a fascinating place for history and archeology buffs. To visit it is to take a journey into the past and observe how the traces of ancient Rome are still present in the landscape of Tarragona.
Get to Tarragona and Costa Dorada with Shuttle2Sun‘s low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
The Hermitage of the Mare de Déu de la Roca, in Mont-roig del Camp
Another of the most iconic places in the province of Tarragona is the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de la Roca, located in Mont-roig del Camp. This sanctuary, which stands on an imposing promontory of reddish rock, not only stands out for its privileged location and stunning views of the Costa Dorada, but also for its rich history. The building has been documented since the 13th century, although there are legends that place it as early as the 12th century.
In addition to its religious importance, the hermitage is naturally integrated into the rocky environment that gives it its name, which creates a unique atmosphere. Traditional activities are held here, such as the Coques dance, a typical Mont-roig dance, during the feast of the Virgin Mary on September 8.
The Prades Mountains, one of the most charming enclaves of the province
The Prades Mountains hide some of the most spectacular landscapes of Tarragona, ideal for those seeking a direct connection with nature through routes full of charm. One of the most popular ones is the route to Toll de l’Olla, known as one of the natural pools of Tarragona.
This corner, located in the municipality of Farena, is in the course of the Brugent river and stands out for its crystal-clear waters and the small waterfall that accompanies it.
Another fascinating option is the route to Els Avencs de la Febró, impressive cracks in the rock that form a subway system of caves and ravines. This site is located in the municipality of La Febró and is an attraction for hiking and caving lovers.
Also in the same area, the Gorgs de la Febró are a set of natural pools and waterfalls where visitors can relax surrounded by mountains and unspoiled nature.
The Sagrada Familia of Tarragona
The Sagrada Familia of Tarragona, also known as the Sanctuary of the Mare de Déu de Montserrat or Sanctuary of Montferri, is a modernist work designed by the architect Josep Maria Jujol, a collaborator of Antoni Gaudí.
Located in the small village of Montferri, in the Alt Camp region, this sanctuary is one of the least-known architectural jewels of Catalonia, although its style is very reminiscent of the famous Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
he sanctuary is set in a natural environment surrounded by vineyards and stands on a promontory with spectacular views of the region. Jujol designed the structure with parabolic arches and geometric shapes inspired by nature, characteristic elements of Catalan modernism. The building is oriented towards the mountain of Montserrat, and its design symbolizes a boat, with the Virgin of Montserrat at its highest point, as a guide for pilgrims.
As you have seen, the province of Tarragona, from the coast to the mountains, is a destination that offers endless possibilities to explore. Remember that Shuttle2Sun puts at your disposal its low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station. Remember that you can book your transfer up to 24 hours in advance.
