Parc del Garraf

Parc del Garraf is in Barcelona (province) of Catalonia. Great views over the sea and of the arid interior lands. The park is well known for its limestone rock landscapes. This arid expanse in the south-western Catalan coastal mountain range boasts captivating karstic formations, featuring caves, sinkholes, and limestone pavement.

Understand

Covering 12,376 hectares in the El Garraf district, limestone rock dominates the landscape, adorning vineyard buildings and ancient farmhouses. Within the park's boundaries, nature and history entwine, creating a unique environment where the earth's very foundation tells an ancient tale. Explore the rich karstic shapes and the enchanting beauty of El Garraf Park. In the park, you'll find remnants of ancient human occupation, such as the Eramprunyà Castle and the abandoned villages of Campdàsens and Jafre, as well as farmhouses that are still engaged in agricultural activities or providing services to the park, like Can Planes and La Pleta. Right on the park's border, you'll also discover the Cross of Saint Isidore on Puig d'en Boronet, highly cherished by the residents of Sitges.

• 1 Tourist office, Ctra. de Rat Penat a Plana Novella, km 3,5, 08870 Sitges, ☏ +34 935 971 819, p.garraf@diba.cat. (updated Nov 2023)
• 2 Main park office, Calle del Àtom 21, Polígono La Post, 08850 Gavà, ☏ +34 690 045 560, +34 935 971 895, p.garraf@diba.cat. (updated Nov 2023)
• 3 La Sala d'Olivella information center (Centre d'Informació la Sala d'Olivella), Pl. Major, s/n, 08818 Olivella, ☏ +34 938 968 465. weekend and festivities 10:00-14:00. Facility managed through an agreement with the Olivella Town Council and operated under a contract by Masia la Fassina. Provides information, routes, and various activities related to the Garraf Park. Visitors can purchase publications and handmade products from the Garraf Park. Free parking, Educational and environmental education activities, Temporary exhibition, Personalized information, Signposted itinerary, Guided walks, Sale of publications, Sale of products (updated Nov 2023)
• 4 Castelldefels beach information point (Punt d'Informació a la platja de Castelldefels), Passeig marítim 155, 08860 Castelldefels, ☏ +34 936 352 727. 10:00-14:00 and 16:30-20:00. Free parking, Accessible entrance, Educational and environmental activities, Natural heritage site, Gas station, Personalized information, Public transportation, Panoramic view. (updated Nov 2023)
• 5 Sitges tourist office (Punt d'Informació Turisme de Sitges), Plaça Eduard Maristany, 2 , 08870 Sitges, ☏ +34 938 944 251. Free parking, accessible access, restrooms/WC, electric bike charging, electric car charging, historical and cultural heritage site, natural heritage site, gas station, signposted route, oublic transport. (updated Nov 2023)
• 6 Petit Casal de Begues information point (Centre d'Informació Petit Casal de Begues), Pg. de l'Església, 1 , 08859 Begues, ☏ +34 936 392 509. weekend and festivities 10:00-14:00. Facility managed through an agreement between the Diputació de Barcelona and the Begues City Council, providing information, routes, and various activities in the Garraf Park, with services including free parking, restrooms, environmental education activities, permanent exhibition, gas station, personalized information, guided walks, public transport, and sales of publications and artisanal products. (updated Nov 2023)

History

Garraf clifts over the sea

Garraf, often seen as a remote and depopulated region, holds a complex history of human interaction. While signs of ancient habitation exist, it was in the 18th century that the population began to grow significantly, fostering extensive vineyards and wheat fields. However, the devastating phylloxera outbreak in 1879-1880 halted this agricultural prosperity. Presently, Garraf faces challenges such as quarries, shooting ranges, and waste sites, compounded by forest fires. Its designation as a natural park seeks to preserve its unique identity. Managed by the Diputació de Barcelona, it's part of the Network of Natural Parks, promoting sustainable land use and responding to the need for educational activities and recreational facilities in the natural environment.

Landscape

Massia de Vallgrassa

The Garraf Mountains, located in the southern part of the Serralada de Marina or Litoral, offer a unique and distinctive landscape. With low rounded reliefs, deep valleys, rocky walls, and sparse vegetation including maquis, holm oaks, pine forests, shrubs, and meadows, it creates a wild and arid atmosphere. The coastal location results in a typical Mediterranean climate with low but torrential spring and autumn rains, mild winters, and hot, dry summers, influencing the local flora and fauna. The limestone substrate has led to the formation of karstic features like caves, dolines, and sinkholes. Human activities such as agriculture and livestock have significantly shaped the landscape, but they have largely been abandoned, leaving the area susceptible to wildfires due to the accumulation of easily ignitable vegetation.

Flora and fauna

The Mediterranean holm oak forest is in regression in the Garraf region, occupying a significantly smaller area than in the past. Today, remnants of this ecosystem are found only in isolated locations in the northern mountains of Olesa and the Bruguers area, primarily in humid spots with deep soil. In some areas, it coexists with the kermes oak or boxwood. Other plant communities in Garraf include degraded evergreen oak woodlands with boxwood, fire-favored maquis, white pine forests (covering a significant part of the wooded area in the park), and the degraded coastal maquis. The landscape is influenced by new activities and infrastructure, such as urbanization, residential tourism, quarries, landfills, radars, antennas, and power lines, resulting in deforested areas.

The harsh environmental conditions, characterized by intense sunlight, water scarcity, limited vegetation, and rugged terrain, support a unique fauna adapted to these peculiar conditions. Notable bird species in the area include the blue rock thrush, black wheatear, Rock Bunting, and woodlark, as well as endangered raptors like the peregrine falcon and Bonelli's eagle. The coastal slopes provide opportunities for marine birds, including the recent establishment of the shag colony. The ecological transition between holm oak forests and Mediterranean maquis and kermes oak is also reflected in the herpetofauna, with species ranging from the thermophilic North African horseshoe snake and Iberian worm lizard to the Central European fire salamander and common wall lizard. Moreover, the extensive karst system in the region has allowed the development of fascinating subterranean life, including unique endemic species found nowhere else in the world.

Climate

The coastal location defines a typically Mediterranean climate with limited but heavy spring and autumn rains, mild and temperate winters, and hot, dry summers. This last characteristic limits the number of animal species capable of establishing themselves. To withstand these conditions, plants have developed a series of adaptations aimed at survival and improving their effectiveness in competing with other vegetation.

The torrential nature of the rains causes an exceptionally powerful mechanical erosion that carries all kinds of materials. When combined with chemical erosion that dissolves the limestone rock, the effect is impressive: deep and steep valleys and streams with a winding and beautiful course that locals refer to as "fondos".

Get in

By car

• AP-7 (exits 28, 29, and 30)
• C-32 (exits 21 to 48)
• C-31 (exits from Gavà to Vilanova i la Geltrú)
• C-15 (exits from Vilanova i la Geltrú to Vilafranca del Penedès)
• N-340 (exits from Avinyonet del Penedès to Vilafranca del Penedès)
• BV-2041 (from Gavà to Begues)
• BV-2111 (from Sant Pere de Ribes to Olivella)
• BV-2411 (from Begues to Avinyó Nou)

By rail

Renfe. Tel. +34 902 240 202

• Line R2 Sud (Sant Vicenç de Calders).
  • Stops in Gavà - Castelldefels - Platja de Castelldefels - Garraf - Sitges - Vilanova i la Geltrú

By bus

Mohn SL. Tel. +34 902 023 393

• Line 902 (Barcelona-Gavà-Begues-Olesa de Bonesvalls)

La Hispano Igualadina SA. Tel. +34 902 447 726

MON-BUS. Tel. +34 938 937 511

• Vendrell - Barcelona Line, ronda Universitat.
  • Stops in Vilanova, Sitges, and Sant Pere de Ribes

Get around

• 1 Parking Fondo de Borregaire, Cra. d'Olivella a Plana Novella, km 1,5, 08818 Olivella. free. (updated Nov 2023)
• 2 Parking Jafre, Camí de Sitges a Plana Novella, km 6,08818 Olivella. Historic ensemble and starting point for itineraries. (updated Nov 2023)
• 3 Parking La Pleta, Crta. de Rat Penat a Plana Novella, km 3,5, 08870 Sitges. 8:00-16:00. Starting point for the hiking routes GR 92 Sender del Mediterrani. From La Pleta to La Morella and GR 92 Sender del Mediterrani. Camí de les costes. Equipment services: Free parking, marked route, panoramic views. (updated Nov 2023)
• 4 Parking Pla de Querol, Crta. de Rat Penat a Plana Novella, km 4, 08870 Sitges. Equipment services: Free parking, marked route, panoramic views. free. (updated Nov 2023)
• 5 Parking Puig de la Farigola, Crta. de Rat Penat a Plana Novella, km 6, 08859 Begues. Free parking, panoramic views. free. (updated Nov 2023)
• 6 Parking Puig del Martell, Crta. de Rat Penat a Plana Novella, km 2, 08870 Sitges. Free parking, marked route, panoramic views. free. (updated Nov 2023)
• 7 Vallgrassa, Crta. de Rat Penat a Plana Novella, km 6,5, 08859 Begues. Free parking, marked route, panoramic views. free. (updated Nov 2023)

See

Palau Novella (Olivella)

• 1 Palau Novella, Avinguda de Plana Novella, s/n, 08818 Garraf, Barcelona, ☏ +34 937432010. In 1875, the Raventós family sold the old farmhouse Plana Novella to Pere Domenèch i Grau, a resident of Cuba. The new owner included his possessions under the benefits of the colonial law, obtaining an exemption from consumption tax and other services for the families living there. The construction of the palace was completed on October 29, 1890. The owners only enjoyed it for six years because they went bankrupt due to the phylloxera outbreak in 1893. As a result, the estate was put up for public auction in 1896. Since then, the palace has had different owners who kept its doors closed until 1996 when a Buddhist community moved in, restoring the building and establishing a museum. (updated Nov 2023)
• 2 Gava Museum, Pl. Dolors Clúa, 13-14,08850 Gavà, ☏ +34 932 639 610, museu@gava.cat. M-F 09:30-13:00, 17:00-20:00; Sa 11:00-14:00, 17:00-20:00; Su holidays 11:00-14:00. The Gavà Archaeological Museum, established in 1978, showcases the rich archaeological heritage of the Garraf region, featuring the Prehistoric Mines of Gavà and the cave of Sant Sadurní. With a focus on research, conservation, and heritage dissemination, the museum provides a fascinating journey through millions of years of landscape history. (updated Nov 2023)
• 3 Parc del Garraf Astronomic Observatory (Observatori Astronòmic del Parc del Garraf), Camí d'Olivella a Plana Novella, km 3,5,08810 Olivella, ☏ +34 937 713 154, +34 651 426 872, +34 685 233 575, garraf@planetari.cat. Call to request visit. (updated Nov 2023)

Eramprunyà Castle

• 4 Eramprunya Castle (Castell d'Eramprunyà). Dating back to 957, the castle served as a vital stronghold controlling territories including Gavà, Begues, and Castelldefels. Its strategic significance in the defensive system between Al-Andalus and the Carolingian Empire made it a key political, economic, and military center. Despite facing destruction during the Catalan Civil War in 1469, it witnessed a succession of owners and was eventually acquired in the late 19th century by banker Manel Girona, a figure associated with the completion of Barcelona Cathedral's façade. (updated Nov 2023)
• 5 Campdàsens Hamlet. Campdàsens is the name of a hamlet and scattered settlement in a valley within the Garraf Massif, located in the municipality of Sitges (Garraf). It features a square defensive tower, documented in 1097 and modified in the 16th century, a 19th-century hermitage, and several farmhouses. (updated Nov 2023)
• 6 Jafre (Olivella). Jafre, an ancient hamlet atop a 189-meter hill, now stands abandoned. The remnants include the Baron of Jafra's residence, the farmhouse, and the Church of Santa Maria de Jafre, along with its rectory, dating back to the early 14th century. Documented since 1139, Jafre received significant attention in the 17th century when the Barons sought to rejuvenate the village, appointing a mayor in 1683 and restoring the church. In 1819, Jafre became part of Olivella due to parish ties. Traditionally focused on firewood and pastures, vine cultivation thrived until the phylloxera epidemic (1879-1880) led to gradual abandonment. As of 1960, Jafre was left with 19 inhabitants. (updated Nov 2023)
• 7 La Pleta (Sitges). La Pleta is a modernist building located in the Garraf Natural Park, within the municipality of Sitges. Originally constructed as cattle pens for the Guell family, it was built in 1894 and is attributed to Francesc Berenguer i Mestres, the same architect responsible for the Güell Cellar in the nearby town of Garraf. The building serves as the headquarters of the Garraf Park Office (see #understand). (updated Nov 2023)
• 8 La Morella Mountain. La Morella is the highest peak in the Garraf Massif, reaching an elevation of 593.6 meters. The surrounding area features several sinkholes. A long-distance trail, GR 92 Sender del Mediterrani, passes through this mountain summit in its 21st stage from Bruguers to Garraf.[ It coincides with a local short-distance trail (SL-C 99)[ covering 6.1 km, extending from the Environmental Activities Center of Cal Ganxo (Castelldefels) to La Morella. (updated Nov 2023)
• 9 Olivella castle (Castell Vell d’Olivella). It is a fortified castle at the top of Puig Molí mentioned in documents from 992 and 1002. The boundaries of this castle were delineated in a transaction in 1038, suggesting that feudal ownership belonged to the Bishop of Barcelona.The church served as the old parish of Olivella, first mentioned in the mid-10th century when it was a possession of the Barcelona bishopric. In 1625, the parish moved to the newly built church at the new castle of Olivella.The construction of the mill in the 18th century was initiated by the rector of Olivella, who unfortunately passed away while the millstones were being transported from Vilafranca.Route SL-C 100 takes us the to the castle from the town of Olivella,See #Local hikes. (updated Nov 2023)
• 10 Vallgrassa Arts center. In the heart of El Garraf Park, this renovated farmhouse near Plana Novella hosts cultural activities, exhibitions, and workshops. Additionally, visitors can explore an artistic route featuring over a dozen artworks scattered throughout the center. (updated Nov 2023)
• 11 Trinity Hermitage (Ermita de la Trinitat). It is a small chapel located to the east of Sitges, atop the mountain that, extending towards the sea, forms the tip of Ferrosa. It can be reached by a path from the N-246 road, and another access point is the path from the former settlement of Vallcarca. The chapel enjoys an admirable position, providing a wide panoramic view. The chapel is ancient, mentioned in a document from 1375 indicating the presence of hermits. Tradition holds that it was built after a cross with the image of the Holy Trinity was found in the area. The current chapel is modern, as its roof collapsed in the late 18th century, leading to reconstruction and expansion. (updated Nov 2023)
• 12 Boronet hill (Puig d'en Boronet). The Puig d'en Boronet is a hill with an elevation of 315 m. It serves as an excellent viewpoint with views of Sitges and Ribes. Various paths allow ascent to the summit: from Sitges through the Quint Mar urbanization, from Ribes through the Mas Albà urbanization, and from Vallcarca through the Ermita de la Trinitat. At the top of Puig stands the Cross of Saint Isidore, constructed between 1953 and 1955. (updated Nov 2023)

Do

Long range Hiking

• The GR 5, or Viewpoints Trail (Sender dels miradors) crosses the park south no north on his Western side.
• The GR92 , or Medierranean trail, crosses the park.

Local hikes

• SL-C 100 Castell vell d'Olivella ,6 km (3.7 mi), 200 m (660 ft) climb, starts in La Sala d'Olivella information center (See #understand), Explore the less-traveled path to the Old Castle of Olivella from the charming village, offering a picturesque journey through the Garraf massif. Enjoy spring blooms, capturing scenic views of Olivella and discovering points of interest like the reservoir and castle ruins.
• PR-C 39 Camí d'Eramprunyà, 15 km (9.3 mi), 475 m (1,558 ft) climb, easy route, starts in La Sentiu picnic area (See #Eat), Explore the captivating Sentiu Valley with this nearly circular route, unveiling iconic farmsteads like Can Dardena, Can Vinyes, Can Pardal, and Can Flocant. Traverse diverse landscapes shaped by Garraf's geological wonders: the white Garraf boasts limestone formations and typical Mediterranean flora, the red Garraf reveals siliceous sandstone adorned with heathland, and the black Garraf showcases schists and slates with pine and holm oak. For an optimal experience, wear suitable footwear, carry water—especially during warmer months—and consider binoculars for enhanced wildlife observation and panoramic vistas.
• PR-C 37 Masies del Garraf, 25 km (16 mi), 600 m (2,000 ft) climb, starts in La Sala d'Olivella information center (See #understand). Embark on the circular trail starting from Olivella, weaving through the charming farmsteads of Garraf Park, offering a glimpse into the historical agricultural and pastoral legacy of the massif. Rated with a moderate difficulty level, this route predominantly follows the well-marked PR 37 'Masies del Garraf' paths. Don't forget to bring along water for the journey, and consider carrying binoculars to enhance your wildlife spotting and enjoy the breathtaking panoramas along the way.
• Can Grau Sensorial itinerary. 0.5 km (0.31 mi), starts in Parc del Garraf Astronomic Observatory (see #See section). Circular path thoughtfully crafted for those with visual impairments, offering a universal experience for non-reading children and adult readers alike. Beginning at the Can Grau Nature School, the route provides diverse sensory experiences, promoting independent exploration for children and engaging activities for adults. With an observation point on a small hill, participants receive visual guidance, and appropriate walking footwear is recommended. Please note that cycling is not permitted on this route. Embark on this inclusive journey, embracing the beauty of sensory exploration in the heart of nature.
• The solar system Hike . Up to 17 km (11 mi), starts in Parc del Garraf Astronomic Observatory (See #See section). Follows GR 5 Viewpoints trail: The Solar System Adventure
  • Embark on a unique journey along the GR-5 trail in Garraf, where an extraordinary experience awaits – a scale model of our solar system, showcasing the eight planets. The intricate representation, with 1 mm symbolizing 1000 km, unfolds as you traverse the stunning Garraf Park.
  • Begin your walk from Sitges or Olesa de Bonesvalls, and as you progress through the GR5, witness a celestial marvel. Picture the Iberian Peninsula condensed to a mere 1mm. Each meter you cover signifies a million kilometers, offering an awe-inspiring perspective of the vast distances in our solar system.
  • Marvel at this cosmic voyage, experiencing the journey from Neptune's orbit to the radiant Sun, a 1.40-m sphere nestled within the astronomical observatory near Can Grau. As you pace through this cosmic trail, ponder the impossible – walking at almost five times the speed of light. For a true simulation of light speed, move at 30 cm/second and contemplate the immense distances bridged during your solar system trek.

Climbing

There are many climbing locations. However, there are some restricted areas due to conflicts with bird reproduction. Check regulations at: Garraf Park regulations (Catalan & Spanish only).

Caving

There are many caving locations around the park. Chek with main tourist office for regulations and permits. Park in Pla de Querol and, in the north part, following the TV station road, there are many caves.

Road cycling

The climb of the Ratpenat road from Castelldefels is a demanding climb well known among locals.

Mountain biking

There are many trails along the park.

Birdwatching

• 1 TV station route (ruta de la carretera del repetidor). A nice and easy route for birdwatching . Starts in pla de querol parking area. 3.5 km (2.2 mi), 120 m (390 ft) climb, follow tv station route until the antenas (marked point in the map), and back. (updated Nov 2023)
• 2 Falcons route (La falconera). Starts in Port ginesta .Follow the clift base until the sea and back. 350 m (1,150 ft) (updated Nov 2023)

Eat

Picnic areas

• 1 La Sentiu picnic area (Àrea d'esplai de la Sentiu), Carrer de la Floresta, la Sentiu, Ca n'Espinós, Gavà. (updated Nov 2023)
• 2 Can Roca picnic area (Àrea de pícnic a Can Roca), Carrer de l'Om, Muntanyeta, Cal Ganxo, Castelldefels. (updated Nov 2023)
• 3 Begues picnic area (Àrea de pícnic Barbacoa Begues), Can Montau, BV-2411, Km 13.6, 08859 Begues. At the park's boundaries, on the north slope, along the road between Begues and Olesa de Bonesvalls, there are two private recreation areas where you will find all the typical services of these places: firewood sales and barbecue rentals, bar service, playground, sports field, etc. (updated Nov 2023)
• 4 Pla de la Creu picnic area (Àrea de pícnic Pla de la Creu), Pla de la Creu, BV-2411, km 17.5, 08795 Olesa de Bonesvalls. At the park's boundaries, on the north slope, along the road between Begues and Olesa de Bonesvalls, there are two private recreation areas where you will find all the typical services of these places: firewood sales and barbecue rentals, bar service, playground, sports field, etc. (updated Nov 2023)

Sleep

• You can only camp in authorized campgrounds and camping areas.
• Outdoor overnight stays (bivouacking) are only allowed during necessary excursions and treks, in small groups, and during nighttime, from sunset to sunrise.
• Free camping is not allowed in any form, including motorhomes.

Lodging

There are many lodgings in villages around the park, like Sitges. Even Barcelona is close enough.

Camping

• 1 Camping Sitges, Carretera C-246a, Km 38, 08870 Sitges, ☏ +34 93 894 1080. (updated Nov 2023)
• 2 camping el garrofer, Carretera C-246a, Km 39, 08870 Sitges, ☏ +34 938 941 780. (updated Nov 2023)