Village + Countryside

HISTORY

Because of its location on a small hill with a natural spring near the top, Horta has been inhabited for centuries. The earliest inhabitants were Iberians, who lived in the area until the arrival of the Romans. In the 8th century, Horta, like most of Spain, was under Muslim rule. It was reconquered by Christians in the 12th Century. There are still olive trees, like the 1,000-year-old Parot, that were planted by the Muslims during their 400-year rule.

The Village of Horta de Sant Joan

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Surroundings

Village life is slow and sociable. Wander Horta’s ancient streets to discover its Church of San Juan Batista, views of the countryside, the Picasso Center and the studio where the artist worked. In the summertime, enjoy the community pool. In the winter, there are festivals to light up the night. There are many places right in town to enjoy wine, tapas, or pick up groceries. Fine dining can be enjoyed among the olive groves just outside of town at Les Capcades. Most importantly, don’t forget to observe the afternoon siesta, because cocktail hour in the plazas along with the rest of the village can last long into the evening.

Horta is nestled in El Ports Natural Park, at the foothills of the majestic Ports of Beciete range. Views from the village include the striking rock formations known as Benet’s Rocks, as well as Santa Barbara Mountain, and its “Convent of the Angels,” the Saint Salvador d’Horta Monastery, which also serves as an art gallery and community center.

Explore this landscape via its many hiking trails, or enjoy climbing, caving, and mountain biking. The rivers and creeks of the region provide opportunity for swimming and canyoning. Horta also lies along a Greenway called the Via Verde that provides access for cyclists, hikers and equestrians across Terra Alta.

The rural countryside of the region is a patchwork of farms, orchards and vineyards. Visit the nearby village of Arnes to sample their celebrated local honey products, and then continue on to Valderobbres to tour a Gothic castle.