Section Tourdera Arbúcies – Montsoriu Castle

Description of the section

Arbúcies–Montsoriu is a demanding section covering 8 km if you follow the routes reserved for walkers, or 13 km if you use the paths suitable for bicycles. In addition to the distance, the route has a total ascent of more than 500 m. A great reward awaits at the end: Montsoriu Castle, the largest Gothic castle in Catalonia. Please note that bicycles are prohibited on the routes reserved exclusively for walkers.

At the beginning of the section, in the centre of Arbúcies, you will find several parking areas and a wide range of services, including restaurants and shops. The route starts in the small square at the junction of Vern Street and Sant Jaume Street, where you will find an information panel and the first directional signs. The route offers a magnificent journey through a protected natural setting within Montseny Natural Park. Remain on the marked path and respect the local flora and fauna at all times.

Cycling option

The cycling section is longer than the walking route. It is 13 km long, with a total ascent of 336 m and a total descent of 329 m, making it a demanding route. Like the walking option, it begins in Arbúcies, in a small square between Vern Street and Sant Jaume Street. Arbúcies has a wide range of services, so you can stock up on anything you may need before setting off. To begin the route, follow the first signs you encounter, paying particular attention to those intended for cyclists.

The first few kilometres pass through the town centre of Arbúcies along Palacagüina Promenade. Take particular care on the 360-metre section along the GI-552, where traffic is heavier and all necessary safety precautions must be taken. After this point, the route enters woodland, which continues all the way to the foot of Montsoriu Hill.

WARNING: before reaching Montsoriu Hill, near Geneta Hill, you will come across a barrier preventing access by motor vehicles. The barrier has an opening through which bicycles can pass, allowing you to continue without difficulty. A photograph of the barrier is available in the image gallery.

At the foot of Montsoriu Hill, take the forest track with a chain preventing vehicle access. This track leads to Montsoriu Castle, where you can enjoy impressive views and visit the fortress. For further information about the castle and the available visits, visit its website.

Walking option

The Tourdera section from Arbúcies to Montsoriu Castle is a demanding 8 km route, with a total ascent of 497 m and a total descent of 188 m. It begins beside the information panel in a small square in Arbúcies, between Vern Street and Sant Jaume Street. Follow the signs for walkers towards Castle Street, where you will find one of the town’s characteristic pump fountains: the Can Salau Pump Fountain, where you can pump the water manually. Continue along the same street and cross the outskirts of Arbúcies through an area of market gardens before entering the woodland.

Most of this section passes through forest landscapes, often through cork oak woodland. Near El Morer, however, the route crosses hay meadows with interpretation panels. These habitats are particularly valuable for their biodiversity, as they support numerous species, some of which are uncommon. As throughout the route, remain on the marked path and follow the recommendations for respecting the natural environment.

At the end of the section, you will reach the foot of Montsoriu Hill, where one final climb awaits. The ascent follows a narrow path through the woodland. Although the gradient is fairly steep, the effort is rewarded by reaching the castle and enjoying its impressive views. Remember that the castle is open to visitors and offers guided tours. Visit the website for further information.