Nature and culture come together in Flix: the Reserva Natural de Sebes is home to protected habitats along the Ebro, while the ferry crossing and historic sites offer insights into the history of the river landscape. When planning your visit, you can choose between trails and birdwatching, archaeological remains and structures with a direct connection to the meander.
Natural Area and Trails
The Reserva Natural de Sebes encompasses more than 250 hectares of protected habitats. Its mosaic of landscapes comprises wetlands, riverside forests and river islands in the heart of the Ebro. Birds, mammals, reptiles and fish live there, alongside distinctive plant species. The variety of habitats gives the area its diverse character, and exploring nature here is not limited to a single perspective.
The Reserva Natural de Sebes has trails for exploring on foot or by bicycle, as well as birdwatching sites. There are also organised activities, options for families and opportunities to get involved in environmental volunteering. The main trail is about 3.5 kilometres long and runs from Mas del Director to Mirador de les Illes in the Riba-roja d’Ebre meander. The approximate distance and named endpoints give you a clear route to consider when choosing a trail.
The central section of the Flix meander is also designated as a Reserva Natural de Fauna Salvatge. A viewpoint is located at the highest point of the road that encircles the meander. It can be reached from the C-233, the road to Bovera, from kilometre 1, or via the ferry crossing. In addition to the trails at Sebes, this gives you another designated natural area and a viewpoint with specified access routes.
History of the Meander
The Refugi Antiaeri de Flix was renovated and turned into a museum in 2008, and can be visited on a guided tour. Guided tours of Flix’s cultural heritage must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. Check the booking information before your trip if you plan to take a tour.
Castell Nou was built in 1874 on the highest hill of the meander. The fortress was built to protect the centuries-old upper ferry crossing. The Sebes archaeological site tells of even earlier periods of settlement. It comprises three areas, including an Early Iron Age settlement on the highest part of the hill and a necropolis from the same period. The third area is an Iberian settlement dating from the second half of the 6th and the 5th centuries BC. Together, these sites reveal different historical layers, each linked to a specific structure or area of the archaeological site.
The Centre d'Interpretació del Camà de Sirga in Flix preserves the memory of the sirgadors and llaguters. They used towlines to pull llaguts and their cargo upstream along the Ebro. The centre also includes a nature classroom where students can take part in activities about historical and natural heritage, research projects and environmental workshops. The Colònia Industrial beside the Flix factory offers another glimpse into history: its architecture and urban design are marked by strong Germanic influence.
The Ferry Crossing
Flix is home to one of the last remaining ferry crossings on the Ebro: the Pas de barca de Flix. The ferry service is free and uses two large llaguts, the Democrà cia and the Mare de Déu de l’Assumpció. They can carry several vehicles and pedestrians at the same time. If you plan to use the ferry, check its timetable before your trip.
Discover more destinations: El Rourell, Pira, DuesaigĂĽes, Riudecols, VimbodĂ, Montferri, Montblanc, Ginestar.
For the wider travel overview: Tarragona.
