Vilanova de la Sal

The village

Vilanova de la Sal has medieval roots, founded in the 12th century as Privà. The village was relocated in the 14th century due to difficulties in farming the land. This left behind the remains of the old Santa Margarida temple and the spiral staircase of its bell tower.
In the town center, the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria stands out for having preserved, between 1906 and 1967, the remains of the Counts of Urgell, moved from Bellpuig de les Avellanes. There are also the remains of the chapel of Sant Miquel, an essential visit to understand the historical layers of the village.

  • Recommendation: book a guided tour (via ascalfo.cat) to enjoy the fullest local and historical information.

The Saltworks

The old Saltworks supplied the local community with natural salt and fresh water from the spring called “Fontdolç.” Between 60 and 100 tons per year were extracted until 1989. Today, they are a tourist attraction offering activities such as guided tours, “flower of salt” tastings, and experiments with saltwater.

  • Interesting: learning about the traditional salinization process and witnessing the transformation firsthand is a unique cultural and educational experience. More info: lessalines.blogspot.com i ascalfo.cat.

Hermitage of Montalegre – Natural viewpoint

A few meters from Cal Ribero, the path to the Hermitage of Montalegre begins, located at the summit of Montroig. On a 90-minute walking route (steep elevation) or a 15-minute drive, you reach the viewpoint from which you can spectacularly see the Balaguer plain, the Camarasa reservoir, and the Noguera valley.

  • Tip: this route is perfect for dawn or dusk. It can also be done by bike. Check for guided tours
    on ascalfo.cat.

The “beach” of the Camarasa reservoir

This spot at the Camarasa reservoir is an ideal place for summer mornings. It is a small “beach” of stones and fresh water, accessible by a 6 km car ride to the train station and a 10-minute walk.

  • Ideal for families: organize a picnic, bring a swimsuit, and enjoy nature. Ask us for directions upon arrival.

Tartareu

Tartareu Museum – Multisectoral Heritage

Located in the former school building, this space manages the vestiges of the region:

  • Ground floor: paleontology and fauna at the origin of the Earth.

  • First floor: archaeology with exhibitions about the Joan de l’Ós Cave and Andalusian root.

  • Second floor: multipurpose room for exhibitions, audiences, and talks.

  • Recommended: ideal for schools and groups interested in prehistoric and medieval history.

Os de Balaguer

Monastery of Les Avellanes & Ice Well

This Benedictine monastery, declared a Cultural Heritage of National Interest in 1931, offers guided or self-guided tours through its cloisters and halls.
A few meters away, the Ice Well is an underground shelter built hundreds of years ago to preserve ice. A free 20–30 minute excursion from the garden.

Vilars Cave – Millenary rock art

Located in the Vilars ravine, it preserves 29 prehistoric paintings from the Bronze Age (1800–650 BC). It is easily accessible from Os de Balaguer, following informational signs.

To visit it, book through “Lleida i Tú.”(973 438 232 / 639 772 265).

Santa Linya

Cova Gran – climbing and prehistory

The “Cova Gran” is a vast rock shelter spanning 2,800 m² with stunning color tones. It is internationally renowned for sport climbing—with routes graded up to> 8—and for the archaeological significance of its 50,000-year-old layers.

  • Recommended: both for climbing enthusiasts and prehistoric researchers. Visits can be arranged.

Balconet and the Hermitage of Sant Pere

A 4.5 km route leads to the cliffside viewpoint of the Balconet de Santa Linya—ideal for hikers with moderate experience. For the more adventurous, continue on to the Hermitage of Sant Pere, a small Romanesque gem from the 11th–12th century offering a unique panoramic view.

  • Recommended: bring comfortable footwear and water.

Sant Llorenç de Montgai

Sant Llorenç Reservoir – nature and history

This reservoir is a nature reserve ideal for water activities:

  • Kayaking on calm waters

  • Sport fishing in a protected environment

  • Viewing of aquatic birds and protected species

  • Optimize your visit: bring binoculars and a picnic to enjoy the local wildlife.

Balaguer

Historic Route & Monuments

A 90-minute walking route through the old town: Mercadal Square, Portal de Gel, remains of the city walls, Church of Santa Maria, Regional Museum, and Sanctuary of the Holy Christ, ending with a stroll along the Old Bridge.

  • County Museum: features permanent and temporary exhibition rooms, a library, and storage. More info at museucn.com.

Pla d’Urgell

Estany d’Ivars i Vila‑sana

The largest lake in the inner Pre-Pyrenees (126 ha) is a paradise for freshwater flora and fauna. It offers viewpoints, walkways, boats, and even horseback riding tours. There are guides and visits through estanyivarsvilasana.cat.

  • Recommended: bring binoculars and sunscreen. Ideal for a full day of exploration.

Àger i el Montsec

Montsec Astronomical Park (PAM)

The COU and OAM are a reference for astronomical outreach. Spaces designed for observation, exhibitions, and scientific training. Audiences, talks, and observation nights with binoculars and telescopes. Info and reservations at
parcastronomic.cat.

  • Recommended for the evening: observe the sky free from light pollution.

Mont-rebei Gorge – nature in its purest form

The gorge is a protected landscape of more than 600 ha, a corridor for birdlife, and an ideal environment for kayaking, boat-bus rides, and hiking:

  • Catalonia side: 8 km route including the Hermitage of La Pertusa, moderate level.

  • Aragon side: easier route, ideal for summer.

  • There is an AQUA-BUS service (5 stops) and kayaks available for rent (Montsec Activa, 629 386 955).

  • Recommended: bring suitable footwear and a drink.

Lleida

Paeria, Seu Vella i patrimoni urbà

A 40 minutes by car, visit the Paeria Palace, the Town Hall, the municipal archive, and the medieval chamber “La Morra.” Walk around the hill of the Seu Vella, featuring the Choir, the Main Altarpiece, and 16th-century tapestries, as well as Roman remains and Andalusian baths.

La Seu Vella – the jewel of Lleida

Romanesque cathedral with Gothic vaults, panoramic terrace from the Queen’s bastion, and elevator access from Sant Joan. Considered the symbol of the city. Details and visits at turoseuvella.cat.