Villanueva de Sigena Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Villanueva de Sigena with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, accommodations, food and drink, and more.


Introduction to Villanueva de Sigena

Nestled in the northern region of Aragon, Spain, Villanueva de Sigena is a charming town with a rich history and stunning natural surroundings. Known for its religious heritage, the town boasts several historical landmarks, including the Royal Monastery of Sigena and the Chapel of San Pedro. Additionally, visitors to Villanueva de Sigena can explore the great outdoors along scenic hiking and biking trails, or simply relax and soak in the local culture.

This comprehensive tour guide will take you through the top attractions and activities in Villanueva de Sigena, as well as offer tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Villanueva de Sigena

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Royal Monastery of Sigena - This 12th-century monastery was once a home to various aristocratic women and has been declared a National Monument of Spain. Visitors can marvel at its Gothic architecture and see several works of art, including sculptures, paintings, and tapestries.

  • Chapel of San Pedro - This chapel dates back to the 9th century and is a must-visit for history buffs. It’s known for its Romanesque architecture and original frescoes.

  • Center of Interpretation of the Romanesque of Aragon - Located a short distance from Villanueva de Sigena, this museum showcases the region’s Romanesque art and architecture through interactive exhibits and educational materials.

Natural Attractions of Villanueva de Sigena: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sirena Waterfall Trail - This trail is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It winds through picturesque landscapes and ends at a stunning waterfall known as La Sirena.

  • Sierra de Alcubierre - This mountain range offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and is a great spot for hiking or mountain biking.

  • Vadiello Reservoir - Located just north of Villanueva de Sigena, this reservoir is a great place to go swimming, fishing, or kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Villanueva de Sigena

  • Royal Monastery of Sigena Trail - This is a 5.7-mile trail that takes you through scenic farmland and past the Royal Monastery of Sigena.

  • Ruta del Agua Trail - This 6.2-mile trail takes you along the canal that was once used to transport water to the monastery.

  • Sierra de Alcubierre MTB Trail - This 16-mile trail is perfect for experienced mountain bikers, with challenging climbs and descents and stunning views of the surrounding valley.

Best Things to Do in Villanueva de Sigena: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tour - Take a tour of local vineyards and wineries to taste some of the region’s famous wines.

  • Horseback Riding Tour - Explore the region on horseback with a guided tour of the surrounding countryside.

  • Hot Air Balloon Tour - See Villanueva de Sigena from above with a hot air balloon tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Villanueva de Sigena

Day 1: Visit the Royal Monastery of Sigena and explore the nearby village

Day 2: Take a Wine Tasting Tour of the local vineyards

Day 3: Hike the Sierra de Alcubierre trail

Day 4: Visit the Chapel of San Pedro and the Center of Interpretation of the Romanesque of Aragon

Day 5: Go horseback riding in the surrounding countryside

Day 6: Take a Hot Air Balloon Tour

Day 7: Relax in town, visit local shops and cafes, and prepare for departure

Food and Drink Scene of Villanueva de Sigena

Must-Try Dishes

  • Calçots con salsa romesco - A regional Catalan dish consisting of grilled onions served with a nut and red pepper sauce.

  • Cabrales Cheese - A famous blue cheese from the northern region of Asturias.

  • Chorizo - A spicy cured sausage that is a staple in Spanish cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Vino Tinto - Red wine is a popular beverage in Spain, and the region around Villanueva de Sigena is known for some of Spain’s finest.

  • Sidra - A crisp and refreshing apple cider that is popular in the northern regions of Spain.

  • Cava - A sparkling wine that is made in Spain using the same method as Champagne.

Where to Stay in Villanueva de Sigena: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Casa del Birol - This charming guesthouse is located in the center of town and is housed in a restored 16th-century building.

  • Hotel Terra Bonansa - This upscale hotel is located just a short distance from Villanueva de Sigena and offers luxurious amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Hostel Patrian - This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of town and is perfect for travelers on a budget.

What to Buy in Villanueva de Sigena: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Pottery - Villanueva de Sigena is known for its traditional pottery, which is still made by hand using traditional techniques.

  • Local Wines - Bring home a bottle or two of the region’s famous wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Villanueva de Sigena

Spain is a country rich in cultural traditions and customs that are still preserved in Villanueva de Sigena today. Visitors to the town will be greeted with warmth and hospitality from the locals, who are proud of their region and eager to share its beauty with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Villanueva de Sigena

The best time to visit Villanueva de Sigena is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Villanueva de Sigena

Do:

  • Embrace the local culture and enjoy the traditions of the region.

  • Try the local wines and food.

  • Respect the local customs and dress appropriately for any religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Expect everything to be open 24/7. Many businesses have siesta hours in the afternoon when they close for a few hours.

  • Worry if the locals seem a bit reserved at first. They are friendly and warm, but may take a bit of time to warm up to strangers.

  • Forget to bring appropriate outdoor gear, particularly if you plan to hike or spend time in the mountains.

Safety and Health

Safety in Villanueva de Sigena

Villanueva de Sigena is a safe town to visit. However, as with any destination, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take common sense safety precautions, like not walking alone at night.

Health in Villanueva de Sigena

Tap water in Villanueva de Sigena is safe to drink, and there are several pharmacies in town in case of any medical needs.

Getting to Villanueva de Sigena: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Villanueva de Sigena

The nearest major airport is Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which is approximately a four-hour drive from Villanueva de Sigena. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Zaragoza Airport, which is about an hour and a half’s drive from the town.

Bus Stations Near Villanueva de Sigena

There are several bus companies that operate in the region, including Alsa, which offers service from Zaragoza to nearby towns, including Villanueva de Sigena.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car to explore the region at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Villanueva de Sigena

The town is small and easily walkable, but visitors who want to explore the surrounding countryside will need a car or a guide.

Where to Go Next from Villanueva de Sigena: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Zaragoza - The capital of Aragon is home to several beautiful works of art and a vibrant food and drink scene.

  • Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park - This stunning national park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and offers spectacular views of the Pyrenees Mountains.

  • Huesca - This medieval town is home to several important historical landmarks and a lively arts and culture scene.

Conclusion

Villanueva de Sigena is a magical destination that offers visitors a chance to explore history, culture, and the great outdoors all in one spot. This comprehensive tour guide will provide all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to this special place.

The Monastery of Santa María de Sigena The Monastery of Santa María de Sigena