Hiking Tour Exploring Enchanting Waterfalls of the Pyrenees

Imagine walking through a remote mountain landscape where turquoise pools shimmer beneath towering, forest-covered peaks. This Hiking Tour Exploring the Waterfalls of the Pyrenees in Alta Garrotxa offers just that—an adventure that takes you away from crowded tourist spots and deep into one of Spain’s most pristine natural areas. For $145 per person, you’ll spend about 9 hours exploring secret waterfalls, charming mountain villages, and rugged trails led by knowledgeable guides who know every twist and turn.

What we love about this experience are two key things: first, the chance to see a stunning emerald waterfall that’s only known locally—talk about a true hidden gem—and second, the way the tour allows you to escape the noise of popular destinations and truly connect with nature. A small group setting means you’ll get personalized attention, and the walk itself is gentle enough for most fitness levels—perfect if you’re after a day of scenic, not strenuous, hiking.

One potential consideration is the weather. While Alta Garrotxa has a dry climate ideal for year-round hiking, winter visits can be colder and might require extra layers. Also, since the hike covers about 14 km, a reasonable fitness level will help you enjoy it fully, though the terrain is mostly flat and manageable for most.

This tour suits travelers who love discovering off-the-beaten-path spots, enjoy natural beauty, and prefer small-group experiences over large tour buses. It’s perfect for those who want a balance of gentle hiking, incredible scenery, and authentic local encounters.

Key Points

• Hidden Waterfalls: Visit a secret waterfall known only to locals, offering a refreshing break from busy tourist areas.
• Remote Beauty: The Alta Garrotxa region provides rugged landscapes and lush forests, ideal for year-round hiking.
• Small Group: Limited to six participants, ensuring a personalized and relaxed experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides share local knowledge, enriching the hike with stories and insights.
• Convenient Pickup: Van transfer from Caldes de Malavella train station makes logistics straightforward.
• Balanced Hiking: The 14 km route is manageable for most fitness levels and can be adjusted if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Waterfalls of the Pyrenees Tour

Starting Out: From the City to the Mountains

We begin our day with a van pickup at Caldes de Malavella Train Station, a simple and convenient meeting point. The journey from Barcelona’s Passeig de Gracia station takes about an hour, and the guide provides clear instructions on train options. This setup means you don’t need to worry about complicated logistics—your adventure starts smoothly right from the train ride.

Once we arrive, we drive through scenic countryside and cross the medieval Valenti bridge, which spans a dramatic gorge. The sight of this historic structure immediately hints at the scenic beauty awaiting us in Alta Garrotxa.

Arrival at Sadernes: A Picturesque Mountain Village

Our trailhead is in Sadernes, a tiny, charming village that feels like stepping into a time capsule of old Catalonia. The village’s rustic charm, combined with its natural setting, makes it a perfect launchpad for our hike. Here, we get our gear on and get briefed on the day ahead, with safety tips and highlights from our guide.

The Trail: Following the Valley and Passing Turquoise Pools

We follow the Path of Valencians, a trail along the river where the landscape transforms into a painter’s palette of colors. Expect to see turquoise pools—perfect spots for photos—and lush forested slopes. The trail is relatively flat, making it suitable for most fitness levels, though the distance of 14 km means good walking shoes and a moderate fitness base are recommended.

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The Highlight: Sant Aniol d’Aguja Waterfall

Soon, the crescendo of our hike arrives at the Waterfall of Sant Aniol d’Aguja, a breathtaking cascade that captures the wild spirit of the Pyrenees. This waterfall is a local secret, largely unknown to travelers, which makes it even more special. We loved the way the guide shared stories about the area’s history and ecology, enriching the experience beyond just the visual.

The opportunity to cool off in the pool beneath the waterfall is a real treat—imagine jumping into crystal-clear waters surrounded by untouched nature. Several reviews mention how invigorating it was to take a dip here, making it a perfect refreshment after the hike.

Exploring More Hidden Spots

Beyond the main waterfall, the trail weaves through lush forests and scenic viewpoints. The rugged terrain and dense canopy create a sense of secluded wilderness, away from any crowds. The guides’ knowledge helps us spot local wildlife, adding a layer of discovery to the walk.

Returning: From Nature Back to Civilization

After ample time at the waterfalls and scenic stops, we retrace our steps along the river, ending back in Sadernes. From there, the van takes us back to Caldes de Malavella station, closing a well-rounded day of adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Local Experience: The secret waterfall and remote trails offer a taste of Catalonia’s hidden natural treasures—a rare chance to connect with the landscape away from tourist-heavy spots.

Expert Guidance: Guides who are passionate and knowledgeable help you understand the area’s ecology, history, and wildlife, making the experience more meaningful.

Comfort and Convenience: The included transportation from Caldes de Malavella simplifies logistics, and small group sizes ensure you get attention and support.

Flexible & Suitable for Many: The route’s manageable length and generally flat terrain make it accessible for most hikers, provided you have a baseline fitness level.

Value for Money: At $145, this tour packs in a full day of scenic hiking, local insights, and the thrill of discovering a waterfall most visitors never see.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Wear hiking or sports shoes with good grip; the terrain is mostly flat but uneven in places.
• Bring trekking gear, such as a water bottle, sun protection, and a light jacket in case of weather changes.
• Pack a small snack or water—though the guide might suggest bringing a packed lunch, as none is included.
• Aim for an early start to make the most of daylight, especially if visiting in winter.
• Remember, cancelation is free up to 24 hours before—so you can plan with confidence.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers interested in authentic nature escapes who prefer small, intimate groups. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a light to moderate hike with rewarding scenery—especially the chance to see undiscovered waterfalls—without the need for technical climbing or strenuous effort. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a quiet, scenic day in the mountains will find this tour particularly appealing.

It’s also a great choice if you’re staying in Barcelona or Girona and want a manageable day trip into the mountains. The combination of beautiful landscapes, local secrets, and expert guides makes this a memorable outing for all ages with a reasonable level of fitness.

FAQ

How do I get to the meeting point?
You’ll meet at Passeig de Gracia train station in Barcelona, where you’ll be directed on which train to take to Caldes de Malavella. The train ride takes about an hour, and the guide provides clear instructions.

Is the hike suitable for children or older adults?
The route is about 14 km but is mostly flat, making it manageable for most people with a reasonable fitness level. It’s suitable for families with children and older adults who are comfortable with moderate walking.

What should I bring?
Hiking shoes or sports shoes are recommended, along with trekking gear such as a water bottle, sun protection, and layered clothing for varying weather.

Are meals included?
No, a packed lunch is not included, so you might want to bring your own. There are no dining options on the trail itself.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the climate makes it suitable for hiking all year round. In winter, it can be colder, so dress accordingly.

What makes this experience unique?
The chance to visit a local secret waterfall and enjoy remote trails far from the crowds makes this a truly authentic experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the van pickup from Caldes de Malavella is included. For those staying in Barcelona or Girona, hotel pickups can be arranged for an additional fee.

To sum it up, this hiking tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic local discovery. It’s perfect for anyone craving a day in the mountains with a chance to see a waterfall you won’t find on typical tourist routes. With expert guides, manageable terrain, and remote scenery, it’s a memorable way to experience Catalonia’s rugged charm. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a lover of scenic walks, this trip promises fresh air, stunning views, and the thrill of uncovering a hidden treasure deep in the Pyrenees.

You can check availability for your dates here: