Three mountains in Catalonia to test your stamina

Straddling the districts of El Bages, El Baix Llobregat and L’Anoia, the massif of Montserrat is one of the most iconic sights in Catalonia.One of the best ways to explore it is by taking a circular route up to Sant Jeroni, which at a dizzying 1,236 metres, is the highest viewpoint on the massif. Other equally impressive peaks are Els Ecos, El Cavall Bernat, Els Frares Encantats and Les Agulles. The trail starts at the Monastery of Montserrat, which you can reach by funicular. When you arrive, you’ll see the trail signposted on your right. Walking through holm oak, oak, and pine woods you’ll see that hiking, climbing and speleology are common activities in the area. The Salnitre caves in Collbató are the most frequently explored. 

The mountain of Puigmal, also known as Puigmal d’Er, is a 2,911-metre high paradise for hikers. It’s one of the highest peaks in the Eastern Pyrenees, and is located in the province of Girona, between Spain and France. One of the easiest trails begins at Fontalba. This is a circular route that slowly rises between green meadows until the vegetation gradually disappears, making way for the Serra del Cadí, the mountains of Andorra, and even the Pica d’Estats. When you reach the top, you’ll find an iron cross with a plaque next to it inscribed with some verses by the famous Spanish poet Jacinto Verdaguer. The panoramic view is simply incomparable. The way down crosses the Coma de l'Embut in the Vall de Núria. You’ll very soon come to a magnificent sanctuary, and you can sit on the shore of the great lake that surrounds it. This is your chance to take a rest before the last leg.