R3. Ascent to the Ermita of Sant Ramon

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The itinerary starts at Torre-roja Park, next to the Baseball Glove Sculpture, created in 1992. We head north and, at the skate park, turn right to continue through the Can Picó area, passing next to the baseball and softball fields until crossing Avinguda de la Fraternitat. 

We take the track signposted towards Sant Ramon along the camí de la Verdera. We continue uphill and soon reach the junction with the camí d’en Vellaca. At this point we find the fig orchard, wine presses and the forn d’en Vellaca as heritage elements. We continue straight uphill alongside the torrent de la Verdera. 

Among oaks, holm oaks and the pine forest of the bosc del Cònsol, the path begins to climb. Inside the forest, we see small dry-stone walls, evidence of former agricultural activity. The scattered carob trees are further proof of this past. 

Leaving the forest, always following the main track, we come across a recreation of a beautiful dry-stone vineyard hut, an initiative of the Tres Torres de Viladecans group. From here on, the path zigzags with steep climbing sections. The forest gives way to a dense maquis of large shrubs.

The views improve noticeably, but the path is demanding, especially if you are cycling, as you may need to push the bike on some sections. 

On one of the bends, we reach a flat area with a rock cutting and a bench. Just after this point, a descending path branches off. We are at the head of the torrent de Can Menut, and the descending path corresponds to the sports route that runs along the camí de Can Menut. This is a clear example of how active and healthy lifestyles are promoted in Viladecans, which is also part of the Active Running Cities network. 

We continue the ascent and only the steepest section up to the hermitage remains. We arrive from the rear, so a short stop just before reaching the top allows us to rest and enjoy the landscape looking north. The eastern foothills of the serres de l’Ordal and the Garraf descend towards the Llobregat Valley.

At the top of Sant Ramon, there is a picnic area, an unregulated water fountain and a spacious square from which we can enjoy views over the entire Llobregat Delta. This is a good place to eat, drink water, enjoy the privileged views and decide on the descent. There are three options: follow the track along the Montbaig ridge, which includes a steep and loose-stone section; return by the same route used for the ascent; or descend until connecting with the camí de Can Menut and follow the sports circuit. 

In all cases, the descent must be done with great care, as it is easy to slip. Below the Montbaig ridge, we gently turn westwards, between carob fields, along the camí de les Oliveretes until reaching the camí de la Verdera, which leads us back to the first junction with the camí d’en Vellaca. From here, we retrace our steps back to Torre-roja.