The Montseny Nature Reserve is a protected area located in the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range, about 70 kilometres north of Barcelona. The reserve covers an area of over 30,000 hectares and includes several peaks, deep valleys, and dense forests. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching.
How to get there from Barcelona:
To get to Montseny Nature Reserve from Barcelona, you can take a train from Barcelona Sants station to Sant Celoni, which is the closest town to the reserve. The journey takes approximately one hour, and there are several trains running daily. Once you arrive in Sant Celoni, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the reserve.
Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to the reserve, which takes approximately one hour from Barcelona. The drive is scenic and passes through several charming towns and villages, making it a great option for those who want to explore the region at their own pace.
What to do at Montseny Nature Reserve:
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Hiking:
Lovers of nature and hiking, you’ve come to the right place! Once you arrive at the Montseny Nature Reserve, there are several trails and paths to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Some popular routes include the Puig Drau hike, which takes you to the highest peak in the reserve, and the Riera de Arbúcies route, which follows a scenic river through the forest.
The Puig Drau hike
The Puig Drake hike is a popular trail that takes visitors to the highest peak in the Montseny Natural Park, at 1,344 metres. The 10-kilometre hike typically takes between 4-6 hours to complete.
This hike can be challenging, with some pretty steep sections in parts. However, the views from the summit make the effort well worth it, with panoramic vistas stretching all the way to the Mediterranean Sea on clear days.
The Riera de Arbúcies route
The Riera de Arbúcies route is a scenic hiking trail that follows a river through the Montseny Natural Park, offering visitors a chance to explore the lush forests and pristine natural landscapes of the region. The trail is approximately 13 kilometres (8 miles) long and takes around 3-4 hours to complete.
One of the highlights of the trail is the Salt de la Dona d’Aigua waterfall, a stunning natural wonder that is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. There are several viewing platforms that offer excellent views of the falls on this route.
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Mountain biking:
Mountain biking is a popular activity in the Montseny Nature Reserve, offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the region on two wheels. The reserve has several trails and paths suitable for mountain biking, ranging from easy rides to more challenging routes.
Visitors can rent bikes and equipment from several local shops and tour operators, or bring their own bikes and gear to explore the trails and paths of the Montseny Nature Reserve. There is something for riders of all levels, with stunning views and challenging terrain that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Birdwatching:
The Montseny Nature Reserve is an excellent destination for birdwatching, with a wide range of bird species that call the region home. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems, including forests, meadows, and mountains, provide habitats for many different bird species, including eagles, vultures, owls, raptors, waterfowl, and songbirds. There are several designated birds watching areas throughout the reserve, offering visitors a chance to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.
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Nature walks and guided tours:
The reserve offers several guided tours and nature walks, led by experienced guides who can provide insight into the local flora and fauna, as well as the history and culture of the region. Nature walks and guided tours are a great way to explore the Montseny Nature Reserve and truly discover its beauty.
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Camping:
Camping in the Montseny Nature Reserve is a brilliant way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, offering visitors a chance to spend a night under the stars. Camping is allowed in designated camping areas, which offer basic facilities such as toilets, showers, and picnic tables. There are several campsites located within the reserve, including the El Vilar campsite, which is located near the village of Seva and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. What fun! Remember to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footsteps!
So, there you have it! Our guide to Montseny Nature Reserve. This fabulous nature reserve is a beautiful and tranquil escape from the bustling city of Barcelona. If you want to continue reconnecting with nature, explore these stunning natural landscapes near Barcelona!
