Just an hour’s drive from the bustling Catalan capital, where the rhythm of life never slows, there exists a world governed by its own rules. In autumn, it transforms, shedding its summer greenery for golden and crimson hues. This is Montnegre i Corredor, an expansive nature reserve serving as the green lungs for the densely populated coast. Unlike its more famous and lively neighbor, the Montseny massif, this place has preserved its pristine tranquility and seclusion. It offers refuge to those seeking untouched beauty and the chance to lose themselves among ancient trees—all without leaving civilization.
A green lung at the doorstep of the metropolis
Covering nearly 15,000 hectares between the comarcas of Maresme and Vallès Oriental and forming part of the coastal mountain range, the area comprises two distinct massifs. To the north rises the rugged and majestic Montnegre, its peaks reaching 750 meters and covered in dense chestnut and oak groves. The southern part, Corredor, is gentler and more welcoming, with rolling hills and pine forests, topped by the sanctuary that shares its name. The humid air, filled with the scent of wet earth and pine needles, creates the perfect conditions for mushroom growth, turning every trail into a potential discovery. Far from any crowds, visitors can fully enjoy the ritual of foraging—a true tradition for many locals, not just a hobby.
In the footsteps of rovellons among oaks and pines
The local forests generously reward their visitors. Experienced mushroom pickers can find prized varieties such as rovellons, carlets, or fredolics, typical of the Mediterranean coast. A network of well-marked trails lets you explore even the most hidden corners. You can choose an easy walk along gentle slopes suitable for the whole family, or set off on a more challenging hike that will reward you with breathtaking panoramic views. From the mountaintops, you’ll see a stunning vista: the endless blue of the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the mighty silhouettes of mountains on the other. This is an ideal place not only for gathering forest delicacies, but also for hiking and photography, where every turn in the trail reveals a new landscape worth capturing.
A journey through time: from dolmens to Romanesque churches
In addition to its natural wealth, this land preserves a rich historical heritage. Walking its trails is like stepping back through the centuries. Among the oldest monuments are the megalithic dolmens Pedra-Gentil and Ca l’Arenes, silent witnesses to prehistoric cults. At the summit of El Castell hill, you can find the ruins of an Iberian settlement. The Middle Ages left their mark in the form of the Romanesque churches of Sant Cristòfol and Sant Martí de Montnegre, both built as far back as the 11th century. The landscape is dotted with more than two hundred traditional Catalan masia farmhouses, built from stone. Many have been given new life as rural hotels or restaurants, participating in the “Parc a taula” program. This initiative promotes local cuisine based on seasonal produce grown in the area, aiming to connect visitors to the natural environment through its flavors.
Not just mushroom picking: other activities in the reserve
Getting here from Barcelona is easy. The R1 and R2 commuter trains go to towns like Arenys de Mar or Sant Celoni, which are starting points for many routes. There are also bus connections. By car, the simplest way is via the C-32 or AP-7 highways. But this place offers much more than just a chance to fill your basket. Throughout the year, it hosts educational workshops, theatrical tours, and special programs such as “Viu el parc” (“Live in the Park”) or “Poesia als parcs” (“Poetry in the Parks”). Must-visit locations include the Vall d’Olzinelles, the Corredor Sanctuary, the historic ice well in Canyamars, and the tiny hamlet of Sant Martí de Montnegre, where time seems to stand still — a reminder that just next to the metropolis, there are still pockets of genuine tranquility.
