More than twenty waterwheels in the plain and the medieval architecture of the Canònica give Vilabertran two distinct starting points for planning a trip: landscape and culture. These are complemented by a local apple tradition and the Fira de l’Horta i la Poma de “relleno”, which takes place on a specific weekend in September.
The Canònica and architecture
Santa Maria de Vilabertran is one of Catalonia’s best-preserved examples of the medieval architecture of collegiate churches of regular canons. The Cross of Vilabertran is also remarkable: it is the largest processional cross made of silverwork in Catalonia. Thus, the architecture of a collegiate church and a silver processional cross offer distinct cultural themes side by side.
The Torre d’en Reig offers another architectural perspective. This freestanding building is in the town centre and is surrounded by a garden. This broadens the architectural interest from the Canònica to a single building in the centre. Those who choose Vilabertran for its history and architecture will find different perspectives here, without conflating them into a single building.
Waterwheels and the horta
The Sínies de Vilabertran comprise more than twenty waterwheels in the plain, some of which are well preserved. Visitors can discover the Sínies on the circular route of the same name. The landscape feature and the route go hand in hand: the waterwheels provide a tangible focus, while the circular route offers a way to explore them on foot.
Another aspect of the landscape can be seen in Vilabertran’s horta, whose vegetable growing shapes its distinctive character. Cypress hedges protect the fields from the Tramuntana wind. The horta also produces high-quality local products and helps preserve the countryside and native species. Farming, landscape management and the protection of local species are therefore closely connected to this theme. This offers a different perspective from that of the waterwheels: here, the focus is both on the cultivated landscape and its importance for produce and habitats.
Apple tradition and a September date
Poma de relleno de Vilabertran is made with apples that have firm, compact flesh and are suitable for long cooking. Traditionally, the apples are slowly cooked in several stages over two to three days. This lengthy preparation is a defining feature of the local tradition and offers a different way to explore the horta than looking at the fields: the focus here is on a product and the way it has traditionally been made.
The Fira de l’Horta i la Poma de “relleno” is also part of the town’s annual calendar. It has been held in Vilabertran on the third weekend of September since 2000. If you would like to plan your trip around this date, check the dates for the current edition in advance.
Getting there and parking
You can take a taxi to Vilabertran from Figueres–Vilafant AVE/TGV station. A shuttle runs to Figueres station, where you can rent a vehicle. These are two different options for continuing your journey. Check transport connections and arrangements before you travel.
There are several free car parks in the area around the Canònica. Availability and arrangements may change, so check locally. For accommodation planning, you can consider these details separately: the station information relates to getting there, while the car parks are near the Canònica.
Discover more destinations: Ullà, Cruïlles, Monells i Sant Sadurní de l'Heura, Vilopriu, Sant Miquel de Cladells, Verges, La Bisbal D'empordà, Bordils, Ventalló.
Back to the regional travel overview: Girona.
