As winter approaches and the weather turns cooler, the perfect season for outdoor activities begins, especially for hiking. Spain, with its incredible variety of landscapes, offers countless opportunities for such adventures. One of the most attractive regions for hiking is undoubtedly Catalonia, where every corner has its own story and dazzles with beauty.
Here, amid mountains and valleys, trails await that not only let you enjoy the scenery but also immerse you in history. These paths lead travelers through picturesque landscapes, providing energy and revealing the cultural heritage of the region. A prime example is the ‘Iron and Coal Route’ (Ruta del Hierro y el Carbón), which winds through the province of Girona.
Tracing the footsteps of the Industrial Revolution
This unique route pays tribute to the region’s rich industrial past, particularly the traditions of blacksmithing and coal mining in the Ogassa mines and the comarca of Baix Ripollès. The trail follows a former railway line that once connected Sant Joan de les Abadesses and Toralles. This railway was actively used to transport resources until 1967, when it was closed.
Initially, the route was 12 kilometers long, but in 2022 it was extended to 18 kilometers, reaching the town of Sant Pau de Segúries. With its gentle elevation changes and well-maintained path, it is considered easy and is perfect for family walks, including with children.
From the station to the mountain peaks
The journey begins in the municipality of Ripoll, at the historic station of Sant Joan de les Abadesses, located 682 meters above sea level. From here, following the signs, the trail leads across the road toward the Malatosca valley, gradually gaining elevation. Walking alongside a tributary of the Ter river, you will soon come across the old loader in Toralles—a structure where coal from the mines used to be transferred to train wagons.
The path continues along a winding trail to the town of Ogassa, which sits at an altitude of 975 meters. Panoramic mountain views unfold all around, more than rewarding the effort required to get here. During the era of active mining, a sophisticated system of inclined planes was used, allowing freight carts to move with minimal effort by harnessing the force of gravity.
Journey along the river
After exploring the sites related to Ogassa’s mining heritage, there remain just 7 kilometers to Sant Pau de Segúries. On this stretch, the river will be your guide, with the trail crossing its course several times via specially constructed bridges and crossings. This section is particularly picturesque and allows you to fully enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Catalan countryside.
The route ends in Sant Pau de Segúries, leaving travelers with fond memories of a journey through the region’s industrial past. Local authorities see great tourism potential in this trail and plan to further develop and expand it, so that even more people can connect with the history of these places.
Catalonia is one of Spain’s leaders in hiking tourism development. The region has several thousand kilometers of marked trails, including long-distance (GR), short-distance (PR), and local (SL) routes. The “Iron and Coal Route” is part of the Vías Verdes network, which repurposes abandoned railway lines across the country. These trails are known for their convenience and safety, making them accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.
