Introduction
We present a long and demanding route that requires good physical condition. It can be done on foot or by mountain bike (MTB). If you choose MTB, you should know that in Bruguers you will need to leave the bike to climb up to and back down from the castle of Eramprunyà on foot. Likewise, on the return journey, below Bruguers, the path that descends to the font de la Salamandra is a technical and dangerous descent to do by bicycle. It is better to go down via the track by which you ascended.
Along wide tracks, narrow paths and shady trails, you will discover the natural environment of the vall de les Canals or vall Voltrera and its springs, the architectural heritage of Bruguers and Eramprunyà, as well as the magnificent views from the heights of Eramprunyà.
We recommend the Local Natura App to do this route. Download it for free here:
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TypologyAnti-clockwise circular
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DifficultyMedian
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Duration4 hours 30 minutes
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Slope509.00 meters
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Distance10.50 km
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ThemeForestsFlora and faunaArchitecture and environment
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ActivityBy foot
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Rating
Slope graph
Description
We start in the Can Guardiola park, where the Molinet d’en Subiracs once stood. We take the lower track that passes beneath Can Tries, formerly known as Can Feral. We pass alongside the flood-control basin, which is also a paleontological site. In 2007, as a result of excavation works, archaeological investigations were carried out that recovered Paleolithic remains of many animals, including the tusk of a young mammoth, today known as the Mamut de Viladecans, a symbol of the city.
We continue along a path close to the riera de Sant Llorenç de les Canals, which leads to the road ascending to Can Roig. Before reaching it, however, beside a large carob tree, we turn right and leave Can Roig for the return.
The path continues parallel to the riera de Sant Llorenç, now heading towards Ca n’Amat, which lies on the opposite side of the vall de les Canals. The path reaches the Ca n’Amat track, which cuts off access and forces us to detour above. The track, which climbs steeply, heads north until it meets a trail on the left that leads us towards Bruguers. We cross a sunny pine forest and, along the same trail, reach the bed of the riera de Sant Llorenç, now much wilder and lusher, after passing Ca n’Amat.
We climb up out of the riverbed and, through a beautiful oak forest, join the track that connects Ca n’Amat de les Canals with Bruguers. We follow it uphill towards Bruguers.
We continue until we find a junction that we take to the right. The return, on foot, will be on the left, passing by the font de la Salamandra. If you are cycling, it is recommended to return by the same track you are now ascending.
After a few metres of ascent, we encounter a chain to prevent vehicle access. We continue uphill, making a series of switchbacks along the track through the sun-exposed holm oak woodland below Bruguers. Soon the track becomes an old urban street with its original gravel surface. On one of the left-hand bends, rock slabs can be seen where fossil records may be found.
Shortly afterwards, we reach the houses of the residential area and the road from Gavà to Begues. Caution is required here, as we must walk about fifty metres along a narrow shoulder to reach the Mare de Déu de Bruguers.
Once here, it is time to climb up to and back down from the castle of Eramprunyà. The path is steep, with steps alternating with resting platforms. It is very attractive and passes through striking geological formations. The views from the top of the castle are spectacular. Most likely the castle enclosure will be closed to visitors, so if you wish to visit it, be sure to check visiting days and hours in advance.
The descent should be done calmly. The same applies when leaving the houses of Bruguers in the direction of the font de la Salamandra, where great care is also required.
The descent is shady, beneath holm oaks and heathers, along a narrow path with abundant schist rock. GR trail markers (white and red) may help you choose the route, although it is best to proceed where you find it easiest.
We leave the font de la Salamandra to one side, along another beautiful and very shady stretch, and shortly afterwards reach the junction encountered on the ascent. We now take the same track as before, but downhill.
We also pass the turnoff to the oak forest and continue along the same track. Very soon, a stone cairn indicates the path that leads to the font del Ferro.
Shortly after, another barrier prevents access to Ca n’Amat de les Canals, and we divert along a narrow path that runs just above it, through heathers and aladiernos. We are now below the Rocabruna mining area.
The path leads to a track with a fork: the upper branch goes to Ca n’Amat, and the lower one to Can Roig. We take the one leading towards Can Roig, from where we return to the riera de Sant Llorenç and, once again, to the starting point by the same route we followed at the beginning.
Tips
ROUTE
Download the route for offline use to navigate without coverage issues.
You will find GR trail markers (white and red), but you should follow the track.
The ascent from the font de la Salamandra to the castle of Eramprunyà is demanding.
The descent from the castle to Bruguers must be done with great care.
Apart from this ascent and descent, the rest of the route follows easy tracks and paths.
If doing the itinerary by bicycle, it is recommended to ascend and descend via the residential track to Bruguers. The path by the font de la Salamandra is not rideable.
You will encounter sections with GR and local trail markings, but do not worry: follow the track, as they are not always consistent.
There is a stretch along the Begues road where you must pay close attention to traffic.
WATER
Fountain at the Mare de Déu de Bruguers.
The font de la Salamandra and the font del Ferro do not always flow, and water quality is not guaranteed.
PRECAUTIONS
You should be accustomed to walking.
The ascent from the Salamandra path to the castle is continuous and demanding.
On the descent to Bruguers and from there to the font de la Salamandra, caution is required, as it is easy to slip or twist an ankle.
Do not forget to bring food and water. The castle area or Bruguers are good places to regain strength.
Respect the vegetation and architectural heritage.
Take your litter home.
Be especially careful near rock formations, particularly the Roca Foradada, where climbing is strictly prohibited.
Be cautious when reaching the Begues road, as you must walk a short distance along a narrow shoulder to reach the Mare de Déu de Bruguers.
WEATHER
Overcast days spoil the views.
TERRAIN
The track is compact and in good condition.
The trails are easy.
The ascent and descent path to the castle has steps and loose soil over rock.
The residential track below Bruguers has gravel, which is uncomfortable for cycling.
EQUIPMENT
Comfortable footwear suitable for walking.
Camera.
Trekking poles.
Clothing and sun protection appropriate to the season.
OTHER FACILITIES
Access to the castle is closed and nothing can be seen from outside. Check visiting hours if you wish to visit.
Also check opening times if you want to visit the Mare de Déu de Bruguers.
