Barcelona is renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere, but the areas surrounding the Catalan capital have plenty to offer as well. The province of Barcelona is home to numerous natural spaces, perfect for exploring without venturing too far from the city. Discover some of the best hiking trails near Barcelona and enjoy the region’s rich landscapes and scenic beauty.
Monistrol to Montserrat Monastery
Beginning in Monistrol de Montserrat, the trail climbs along the historic Camí de les Aigües and Camí Vell, offering striking views of the mountain and its dramatic rock formations. Spanning approximately 8 kilometres with an elevation gain of over 600 metres, this route presents a rewarding challenge for hikers in good physical condition.
Upon reaching the Montserrat Monastery, visitors can explore this iconic Benedictine sanctuary, home to the Virgin of Montserrat, La Moreneta. Beyond its religious importance, the monastery features a superb viewing platform and a museum housing works by renowned artists such as Dalí and Picasso, among others.
The Hermitage Trail (Collserola)
This route is an excellent way to explore the historical and natural heritage of the Sierra de Collserola Natural Park, a prominent green space visible from the city of Barcelona. The trail links several hermitages nestled among Mediterranean pine and oak forests. The most notable are the Hermitage of Sant Medir, a traditional pilgrimage site and the Hermitage of Sant Adjutori.
The trail, which can be tackled in sections, offers sweeping views over Barcelona and the Vallès region. Its well-marked paths are suitable for most hikers. In addition to the chapels, the route invites visitors to discover natural springs, historic farmhouses and scenic viewpoints.
La Mola Trail (Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac Natural Park)
The La Mola trail lis one of the most popular hikes in the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac Natural Park. Its highest point, La Mola (1,104 metres), is the tallest peak in the park and offers sweeping views over the Vallès region, Montserrat, and, on clear days, even the Pyrenees. The most common starting points for the ascent are Can Robert and Can Pobla, both located near Matadepera.
At the summit, hikers will find the Sant Llorenç del Munt Monastery, a former 11th-century Benedictine abbey that adds historical and cultural interest to the route. There's also a mountain refuge where you can rest and recharge before beginning the descent. With a total elevation gain of around 500 metres, the trail is of moderate difficulty and suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Garraf Trail
The Garraf Trail offers a captivating hike through the Garraf Natural Park, a protected area distinguished by its striking karst landscape of limestone hills, caves and sinkholes. The park features several walking routes, with one of the most popular starting points in Begues or Sitges. These trails wind through Mediterranean scrubland, pine forests and cliffs with breathtaking views over the sea.
Along the way, hikers can explore key landmarks such as Morella – the park’s highest peak at 593 metres – the prehistoric Can Sadurní Cave and the distinctive Plana Novella, which houses a Buddhist monastery. The route's difficulty varies depending on the section chosen, offering options suitable for a range of fitness levels.
Serralada Litoral Park
Serralada Litoral is another excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts near Barcelona, located inland along the Maresme coast. This particular route is a circular walk of approximately five kilometres, beginning and ending in Premià de Dalt.
With a total elevation change of 262 metres, the trail is technically easy and can be completed in under two hours. It offers walkers the chance to discover the park’s characteristic landscape, while also serving as a gateway to many other trails within the wider natural area.
Roca Foradada Route
This route leads hikers to the famous Roca Foradada, a striking rock formation in Montserrat with a natural hole at its centre, offering a unique panoramic view of the mountain and its surroundings. The hike begins at Can Maçana and winds through dramatic rock formations, with sweeping views of Montserrat’s iconic peaks and the Llobregat Valley.
Technically easy, the trail features a total elevation change of around 380 metres and takes approximately two hours to complete. Along the way, hikers will pass through scenic pine forests and rugged rocky terrain, making it a rewarding outing for nature lovers of all levels.
Les Fonts Route (Sant Cugat)
This trail is one of the most popular in the Vallès region. Following the Camí dels Monjos, the route begins in the town of Sant Cugat del Vallès and ends in Les Fonts, near Terrassa – a total distance of approximately 11 kilometres.
Part of the historic Camino de Santiago, which continues towards Montserrat, the route passes several hermitages and winds through pine forests characteristic of the Vallès landscape, just outside Barcelona.
Serra de l'Obac Trail
The Serra de l'Obac Route is a demanding hike that winds through the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac Natural Park, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountains and the Vallès region. The trail takes hikers through a variety of landscapes, including forests, open meadows and striking rock formations.
With several sections ranging from moderate to difficult, this 14-kilometre route is ideal for those in search of a more challenging experience immersed in nature. Along the way, you can discover notable landmarks such as the Cova de les Creus and the Castell de les Creus.
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