About this experience
I invite you to an archaeological ecotour through the eastern valley of the Montseny mountain range. We will admire incredible mountain panoramas, explore ancient architectural monuments, and briefly immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of past epochs. I have put together a route that is as convenient as possible for you, which an active city dweller can easily handle in a day.
What to Expect
Atmosphere of a Medieval Village
We will start our journey from the village of Aigüafreda, which was established here back in the 9th century. You will stroll through the historic center of the village, where the main street is lined with small squares filled with cozy traditional cafes and bars like pearls on a string. We will talk about the history of these places, examine the ancient houses (local residents jokingly refer to houses younger than 200 years as 'new buildings'). I will explain how the high mountain farms are arranged and show you the castle of the family who used to own these lands.
Mountain Springs and Waterfalls along the Martinet River
Next, we will head towards the mountains, stopping at refreshing springs and enjoying the mountain panoramas. We will quench our thirst at the 'Lovers' Spring', which has been providing its crystal-clear water to the locals for centuries. Following the slope of the valley along the Martinet mountain river, we will reach the waterfalls, bathing in which is said to bring luck according to local legends. The water in the Martinet appears at the end of September and disappears in early June, when the river continues its course underground, and its dried-up bed impresses with intricate landscapes and lush greenery.
Picnic in the Mountains near the Aigüafreda de Dalt Church
From the waterfalls, the trail will lead us up the mountainside to Aigüafreda de Dalt – an 11th-century church that marked the beginning of the history of the local villages. From the churchyard, we will have a breathtaking view of the Catalonian mountains, and in the surrounding cliffs, you will see the time-worn and weather-beaten monastery ruins. Not far from the church, we will choose a picturesque spot and stop for a picnic with local snacks: fruits, cheeses, and sausages. And then, we will head back along the mountain ridge, whose slopes are covered with rosemary thickets and clearings under a blanket of thyme. The waves of scents carried by the mountain wind mix here into unique combinations of Mediterranean forest aromas.
Who Is This Walk Suitable For
The route is suitable for active travelers from 12 years old: the ascent into the mountains is gentle and easy to handle.
Organizational Details
- Distance of our route – 8-9 km, ascent – 250 m, difficulty level – easy
- To get from Barcelona to the village of Aigüafreda, you can take the train: R3 from Sants Estacio or Placa de Catalunya to Sant Martí de Centelles, where I will meet you. Trains run every one and a half hours, the journey takes about an hour, and the ticket costs around 8 euros round trip. You can also drive there: take the C-17 road towards Vic.
- Snacks for the picnic are included in the excursion cost
