What to see and do
in the area
Discover the hidden treasures of Serra de Castelltallat
The Serra de Castelltallat is part of the UNESCO World Geopark of Central Catalonia, a recognition of its unique geological and landscape value.
The Serra de Castelltallat is a protected natural area that hides centuries of history, unforgettable landscapes and medieval corners that will transport you back in time. From Casa Calsuau you are in the heart of a territory where nature merges with the Romanesque heritage, the border castles and the most authentic rural traditions.
Here you can walk along trails through oak and pine forests, discover 11th century churches that still keep their magic intact, explore medieval fortresses with spectacular views and get lost in villages where time seems to have stood still.
Whether you are looking for hiking, culture, local gastronomy or simply contemplating a starry sky without light pollution, this region offers authentic experiences for all tastes and ages.
- COANER
- SANT MIQUEL DE CASTELLTALLAT
- SOLSONA
Villages and churches
The Serra de Castelltallat is dotted with small rural villages and Romanesque jewels that deserve a leisurely visit.
Coaner. The monumental complex
A few kilometers from Casa Calsuau is one of the most spectacular Romanesque ensembles in the region. The village of Coaner, located in a quiet and picturesque valley, brings together three architectural treasures in one place: the church of Sant Julià de Coaner, the tower of the old castle and the Sanctuary of Mare de Déu de Coaner.
The church of Sant Julià is an 11th century Lombard Romanesque building consecrated in 1024, with three naves covered by barrel vaults and an exterior decoration of blind arches and Lombard bands that make it an exceptional example. The circular tower of the castle stands next to the church, slender and watchful, preserving its original medieval structure.
The complex is completed by the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Coaner, built in 1654, which houses a Romanesque wooden carving from the 13th century. The whole place breathes history and tranquility, perfect for a family outing combining heritage and nature.
Sant Miquel de Castelltallat
On the top of a hill at 887 meters above sea level is the church of Sant Miquel de Castelltallat, documented since 1031. Next to it, the ruins of the ancient castle of Montedono and the Astronomical Observatory of Castelltallat form a unique ensemble with spectacular panoramic views of the whole region.
The church preserves Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical elements, testimony of its successive enlargements over the centuries. The Astronomical Observatory takes advantage of the privileged location and the scarce light pollution for the observation of the night sky, offering activities and stays for artists and astronomy lovers.
The place is perfect to enjoy the sunset and watch the lights come on in the villages of the valley while the sky turns orange.
Solsona. Medieval streets
Less than half an hour by car, the city of Solsona awaits you with its perfectly preserved medieval old town. Capital of the Solsonès region, this small episcopal city preserves walls, portals, arcaded squares, 15th century Gothic fountains and an impressive monumental heritage.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria, with its mixture of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles, houses the Virgin of the Cloister, a beautiful Romanesque carving from the 12th century. The Diocesan and Regional Museum houses one of the most important collections of medieval art in Catalonia. Do not miss the Pou de Gel (Ice Well), a unique construction where ice was stored during the winter months.
Solsona is also known for its giants and its lively cultural life. On weekends there is a market and atmosphere in its cobbled streets. Perfect for a morning of strolling, shopping for local products and a good meal in one of its traditional restaurants.
Sanctuary of Santa María del Milagro
About 12 kilometers from Solsona, hidden among oak forests and rain-fed crops, is the Miracle Sanctuary, one of the most impressive monumental complexes in the region. This center of spirituality arose as a result of the apparition of the Virgin to two shepherds in 1458, and since then it has been a place of pilgrimage and Marian devotion.
The jewel of the sanctuary is its spectacular baroque altarpiece, the work of the sculptor Carles Morató from the last quarter of the 18th century. At 23 meters high and 12 meters wide, it is one of the largest Baroque altarpieces in Catalonia and completely covers the altar of the church in a disproportionate explosion of architecture, monumental sculpture and painting.
But the Miracle is much more than heritage. At its feet you will find a winery that produces organic wines from local vineyards, an artisan cheese factory that produces raw sheep's milk cheeses, and a restaurant in the old pilgrims' hostel with seasonal Catalan cuisine. The place is also the starting point of the GR-7 trail and multiple hiking trails, such as the one that leads to the Alzina reservoir bird observatory.
- CASTLE
- ROMANESQUE HERITAGE
- MEDIEVAL FORTRESSES
See castles
The territory surrounding Casa Calsuau was a frontier during the Reconquest, and therefore is dotted with medieval fortresses that guarded strategic roads. Many of them can be visited and offer extraordinary views.
Claret de los Caballeros Castle
Hidden in the Serra de Castelltallat, the small medieval village of Claret de Cavallers is a jewel that few know. It is a unique defensive complex where the houses are grouped together forming an arreplec of essentially defensive layout, testimony of its medieval origin.
The castle is documented since the tenth century and was linked from 1375 to the county of Cardona. Although only a few large ashlar walls remain of the original castle on a promontory above the town center, the whole retains all its medieval essence. The epithet "dels Cavallers" (of the Knights) comes from its relationship with the Order of the Knights Hospitaller of St. John of Jerusalem, differentiating it from another Claret in the area that was called "dels Pagesos" (of the Peasants).
The church of Sant Pere de Claret, built mainly between the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries and attached to the group of houses, is a beautiful building made of regular stone ashlars. The carrer de Claret, a narrow strip between two rows of houses, preserves original architectural elements (arches, windows) that transport us directly to the Middle Ages. All the houses still keep their number on the door, a testimony that it was a very populated place.
Access is by forest track and the place has a special charm for its isolation and authenticity. It is currently inhabited by very few people who keep alive the traditional agricultural and livestock activity. Perfect to include in a hiking route through Castelltallat.
Enfesta Castle
A few kilometers to the west, in the municipality of La Molsosa, Enfesta Castle stands on a hill 531 meters high, dominating the entire plain. A Gothic fortress from the 14th and 15th centuries, documented since 1081, it is one of the best preserved castles in the area.
The castle was the residence of the Lords of Enfesta, Castilians who administered the place on behalf of the Viscounts of Cardona. Declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest in 1949, the complex has been carefully restored preserving its quadrangular structure built with ashlars.
Inside are preserved noble spaces of the castle, the old church of Santa Maria de Enfesta, the oven, an old dungeon and various rooms that reflect medieval life. From its walls visually dominates the whole environment, being able to perfectly distinguish other nearby castles such as Castellfollit de Riubregós or Calonge de Segarra.
The castle is currently open to the public for guided tours (by appointment only). Its privileged location, panoramic views and well-kept interior spaces make it a perfect place to discover the medieval history of the area.
Bojadores Castle
Located at the western end of the Serra de Castelltallat, Boixadors Castle stands on a hill of 864 meters with privileged views over the regions of Bages, Anoia and Solsonès. Built in the 11th century, this frontier castle preserves its cylindrical keep, walls and various outbuildings that reflect its evolution over the centuries.
The Boixadors family was mistress of the castle for more than five centuries, from the early twelfth century until the seventeenth century, making it one of the most stable manors in Catalonia. The castle was never completely destroyed and was inhabited until the middle of the 20th century.
Currently restored by the Diputació de Barcelona, it can be visited free of charge on the first Sunday of each month with guided tours (from 11:00 to 13:30h). It can also be freely accessed outside at any time. The ascent to the castle can be done by car on a forest track or on foot along marked trails, making it a perfect excursion for families.
Cardona Castle
The majestic Cardona Castle is one of the most important medieval fortresses in Catalonia. Built in the 9th century, it was the residence of the Dukes of Cardona, the most powerful family of the Crown of Aragon after the royal house. Its strategic position on a hill 150 meters high provides spectacular views over the Cardener river valley.
The castle could never be conquered by arms and was the last Catalan stronghold to surrender during the War of Succession in 1714, after a heroic resistance. Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, the complex includes the Minyona Tower, the exceptional Romanesque collegiate church of Sant Vicenç (a jewel of Catalan Lombard Romanesque), the Gothic courtyard, the 17th century walls and a Parador Nacional.
There are regular guided tours (duration approximately 1h 30min) that go through the fortress and explain its fascinating history. On weekends there are tours in Spanish and Catalan. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance online.
Other nearby castles
The area is full of medieval fortresses in different states of preservation:
Coaner Castle
Circular tower next to the Romanesque church
Castelltallat Castle
Ruins next to Sant Miquel, with a history dating back to the 10th century
Olius Castle
Fortress with walls, towers and gothic church, 3 km from Solsona.
- FÓSILES
- YACIMIENTO .
- HIDDEN TREASURE
Paleontological site of Prat Barrina
A unique treasure hidden in the Serra de Castelltallat are the ichnites or fossilized footprints of Oligocene mammals, between 30 and 35 million years old. These fossilized footprints are found next to the path that descends from the mountain range towards the Prat Barrina house.
They correspond to the passage of various mammals that came to drink in what was then a wetland area in Castelltallat. This site is part of the UNESCO World Geopark of Central Catalonia, a recognition that highlights the exceptional geological value of this territory.
The footprints are marked and can be observed during hiking trails in the area. It is a fascinating experience for children and for any paleontology lover.
- STARS
- ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATION
- NIGHT SKIES
Observing the sky
The Serra de Castelltallat is one of the best places in Catalonia for astronomical observation. The low light pollution, altitude and clean air allow you to enjoy spectacular night skies where the Milky Way is shown in all its splendor.
The Castelltallat Astronomical Observatory, located next to the church of Sant Miquel at an altitude of 887 meters, takes advantage of these exceptional conditions. In addition to being a center for astronomical observation, it hosts stays of artists and musicians inspired by the stillness and beauty of the place.
From Casa Calsuau, on clear nights, you can enjoy a breathtaking starry sky by simply stepping out into the garden. It is a magical experience that children (and adults) will not forget. Perfect for beginners in astronomy and learning to identify constellations.
- ROUTES
- ALL LEVELS
- DISCOVERING ROMANESQUE HERITAGE
Hiking trails
The Serra de Castelltallat and its surroundings offer multiple trails for all levels, from gentle family walks to more demanding routes for experienced hikers. The trails run through pine and oak forests, farmland, centuries-old farmhouses and spectacular panoramic views.
The routes allow you to discover the Romanesque heritage, access the castles, observe the local fauna and enjoy the tranquility of an authentic rural landscape. Many trails are signposted and have information panels on the geology, flora and fauna of the Geopark.
Recommended routes
At the nearest tourist office and at Casa Calsuau you will find maps and more information about routes adapted to your level and preferences.
Circular route Casa Miralles - Pinos
Medium-difficulty route that crosses forests and offers views of the mountain range.
Miralles House - El Miracle - Freixinet
Route that passes through the Miracle Sanctuary and wooded areas.
Casa Miralles - Freixinet - Santa Susanna
Circular that combines nature and small rural hermitages.
Súria - Coaner Castle - San Ignacio
Route of 13.7 km that allows you to visit the monuments of Coaner and enjoy the scenery of the Coaner stream.
- MOUNTAIN BIKING
- BBT ROUTES
- COMBINED FIELDS
Bicycle routes
For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Serra de Castelltallat offers forest tracks, rural roads and technical trails of varying degrees of difficulty. The terrain combines demanding climbs with flat stretches between crop fields, fun descents and panoramic views that reward the effort.
The area is part of several signposted mountain bike routes that run through the region of Bages and Solsonès. The tracks in good condition also allow road bike routes on secondary roads with little traffic.
Recommended routes
Don't forget to bring enough water, helmet, basic tools and always respect the hikers with whom you share the trail.
Casa Miralles Grand Tour
Circular mountain bike route that covers the main points of interest of the mountain range.
More experiences in the area
Cardona Salt Mountain
25 km away, this spectacular cultural park offers guided tours inside the salt mountain, a unique geological phenomenon.
Wine tourism
The Pla de Bages region has a Denomination of Origin. You can visit organic wineries such as El Molí (Rajadell) or Grau i Grau (Castellfollit del Boix) for tastings and to learn about the winemaking process.
Montserrat
Less than an hour away, the sacred mountain of Catalonia with its Benedictine monastery, the Moreneta and unique rock landscapes.
Calaf
Medieval village with traditional market on Saturdays, stately architecture and good gastronomic offer.
Adventure sports
Possibility of parachute jumps at the Sant Fruitós de Bages aerodrome (25 minutes by car).