Why Catalonia’s Barcelona province?
Walking in Catalonia as an activity is well promoted, and active holidays are encouraged for the growing number of people who want to explore Catalonia beyond Barcelona and the Costa Brava. Some routes and areas might see a great number of hikers and recently there has been a great effort to guide visitors towards the more rural areas of Catalonia. However, you can certainly find quiet lesser-used trails in each natural parks while walking in Catalonia.
Catalonia provides hikers with endless trail options, from easy strolls to more demanding walks. The friendly locals welcome the growing number of people who want to explore these fascinating and diverse areas on foot.
The world-famous architecture, fine restaurants and bustling streets make the city of Barcelona a popular destination. The city undoubtedly has a special vibe and its famous landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia, La Rambla and Parc Güell are visited by millions every year. The Costa Brava has attracted sunseekers for decades but only about an hour from the coastline and Barcelona, the landscape is altogether different.
Fresh mountain streams race down the forested slopes and trails meander up to the highest peaks of Montseny. People – seeking escape from the heat in the summer -- have always been drawn to these lush mountains. In the autumn the slopes are dressed in spectacular colours, sweet chestnut trees provide fruits and mushrooms grow beneath the trees. Spring brings fresh colours and perfect temperatures for walking in Catalonia. On a clear day at any time of the year, you can enjoy some grand views from the summits all the way to the Pyrenees.
Lingering legends live among the jagged peaks of the Montserrat range and the iconic monastery with a vertical rock face behind it is the destination of pilgrimages as well as day trips from Barcelona. The Montserrat range is also dotted with hidden ruins of chapels and hermitages.
The fascinating rock formations provide endless routes for rock climbers but hikers are also spoilt for choice among the labyrinth-like rock needles. There may be a cable car and funicular taking people close to the monastery and higher in the mountains but this magical place is without a doubt best explored on foot.
The scenery is dominated by unforgettable rock formation in the St Llorenç del Munt Natural Park. Several scenic routes climb up to the monastery, built on La Mola, the highest peak in the natural park and myriad of other trails criss-cross the slopes with extensive views towards the Montserrat range and the Montseny Massif.
Trails skirt around the endless vineyards of Penedès where some of the best quality wines in Catalonia are produced. Steep paths lead to ruins of former castles and watchtowers perched in strategic locations. Some amazing trails also criss-cross the rugged limestone landscape of the Garraf natural Park. It is so close to Barcelona that you can identify some of the famous landmarks from the summit of La Morella. The region is dotted with caves and chasms surrounded by typical Mediterranean coastal vegetation.
When to go walking in Catalonia?
The summer months are hot but the Montseny natural Park is famously cooler than the coast and Barcelona, and the trails attract day trippers from Barcelona who hope to escape the heat, especially at weekends. Autumn is spectacularly colourful but there might be some rainy days, and there is a very little chance of snow in the winter when walking in Catalonia’s Barcelona province.
In a similar way the trails can be accessed all year round in the Sant Llorenç Natural Park and Montserrat but the summer heat will be more noticeable as the mountains are lower and there is less vegetation than in the Montseny mountains. Likewise, you might want to avoid the Penedès and Garraf in high summer.
Pack what you would normally take for a day walk when walking in Catalonia. Carry a waterproof jacket, especially in the autumn and winter, and take warm fleece or jumper to the mountains as it can be cooler on the summits. Comfortable hiking boots, sun cream and sun hat are essential, and always carry ample water, especially in the summer months.
Are there any historical sites in Catalonia?
Walking in Catalonia will certainly be one of the best ways to discover the regions hidden history. There are countless remote churches, chapels and castles to visit and it is best done on foot following the generally well maintained mountain trails. It is worth visiting Catalonia’s tiny rural villages as well to admire some well kept traditional houses.
Are there any guidebooks for walking in Catalonia?
The answer is yes. We have walked much of the best trails of Catalonia’s Barcelona province. Our guidebook, Walking in Catalunya-Barcelona was published by Cicerone Press. They are a UK based publisher and publish the best guidebooks for walking, trekking and cycling. We have written several guidebooks so please have a look at our other books too.
Can you help me plan a walking holiday?
Yes, we can assist you with planning your walking holiday to most Mediterranean destination. Please visit our Personalised travel planning page for more information.
