Introduction
Stage 1. From Riells de l’Escala beach to Toroella de Montgrí via Cala Pedrosa
The first stage of the Montgrí and the Baix Ter Route sets off from the beach of Riells de l’Escala, which is also the end point of the fourth and final stage, which closes the circle. It leads to Torroella de Montgrí following the coastline closely or directly, and enjoying views and corners of the rugged coastline of the Muntanya Gran.
We recommend the Local Natura App to do this route. Download it for free here:
Apple store Google Play
-
TypologyCrossing
-
DifficultyMedian
-
Duration6 hours 40 minutes
-
Slope470.00 meters
-
Distance20.50 km
-
ThemeFlora and faunaEnvironmentLandscaping
-
ActivityBy foot
-
Rating
Slope graph
Description
Stage 1. From Riells de l’Escala beach to Toroella de Montgrí via Cala Pedrosa
The first stage of the Montgrí and the Baix Ter Route starts in l’Escala, specifically at the start of the promenade of the beach of Riells, heading from the old centre of the municipality, in front of the roundabout that connects the Passeig del Mar with Avinguda de Montgó and Avinguda de Riells.
From the very beginning, following the promenade of the beach of Riells and brushing past the port of l’Escala, you go in search of the Camí de Ronda of les Planasses, an enclave of the Montgrí, Illes Medes and Baix Ter Natural Park, which, passing in front of Illa Mateua, leaves you right in the middle of Cala Montgó in the municipality of Torroella de Montgrí.
The Camí de Ronda starts climbing immediately as far as Punta Ventosa, passing through els Crestats and the tiny coves in this area – beautiful spots with excellent views you can enjoy – until you reach the flatter land on the top of the Muntanya Gran, before descending again until it is back by the sea in the wild corner of Cala Pedrosa, one of the highlights of the itinerary of this first stage.
After enjoying the hidden location of Cala Pedrosa, and even a good dip in the water, you now climb gently to the top of la Pedrosa, from which you head decisively towards the first foothills of the Montgrí Massif, passing over the southern part of the great inland dune that has been stabilised by the extensive pine plantations you pass through, as well as passing by some old traces of human occupation of this place in days gone by.
After passing the Coll de les Sorres, you descend, flanking the feet of the steep high plain of the imposing Montplà, which forms part of the rocky Montgrí Massif, to the welcoming town of Torroella de Montgrí, which is well worth a long visit, accompanied by panoramic views of the Baix Ter and the Empordanet, places you will visit on other stages of this route.
Tips
ROUTE
- The route is very variable, on roads, cart tracks, trails and paths, which are often quite rough and rocky, with few monotonous stretches, combining high-up open stretches with some that are more wooded.
WATER
- You will only have the possibility of finding fluids to drink in the establishments of Cala Montgó, if they are open, and at the fountain in the picnic area of the Warden’s Lodge, close to Torroella. There is no drinking water on the rest of the route. Therefore, take a full bottle from the start.
PRECAUTIONS
- Take care with the cliffs on the Camí de Ronda stretches, especially if you have children with you and/or it is a windy day.
- If the sea is rough, do not get too close to the breaking waves when passing through the coves, as it is dangerous, even if it does not look it.
WEATHER
- Some stretches of the route offer little shade. Protect yourself well from the effects of the sun.
- It is a very windy area. Take care with strong gusts, especially if the tramuntana – the north wind – is blowing.
TERRAIN
- The terrain on which you walk is generally rough and rocky, with a lot of loose stones. Protect your feet and ankles.
EQUIPMENT
- Walking boots, preferably high-top ones.
- Hiking poles might help on the long trail sections.
- A windbreaker if the day is windy.
- Binoculars and a camera for watching possible fauna and photographing the views.
OTHER FACILITIES
- You will have no trouble finding a wide variety of bars, restaurants, accommodation, tourist services and information about the area in l’Escala and Torrorella de Montgrí.
