Introduction
This route is short but is packed with spectacular views and scenery where you can enjoy orchids with their beautiful and charming flowers, admire spectacular panoramic views of the Empordà plain and visit the impressive Church of Sant Martí de Fontanilles, with its Romanesque architecture which has been preserved since the twelfth century. You will see all of this and more as you follow the narrow lanes of Gualta and Fontanilles and walk through their woods and fields.
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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DifficultyEasy
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Duration2 hours
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Slope185.00 meters
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Distance5.30 km
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ThemeFlora and faunaArchitecture and environment
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ActivityBy footBy bike
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Rating
Slope graph
Description
This route is in the municipality of Gualta, in the Baix Empordà region. The route starts from the open area where you leave the car, just at the entrance to the village.
The route starts in the streets of this small village of just over 390 inhabitants. Its narrow streets are captivating, but they will also block your GPS signal so it is a good idea to check the route you will be following before you set off to give you an idea of where to head.
Once you leave the built-up area, you start going uphill until you enter the track which leads to the peak. Keep your eyes peeled on this section of the trail as it is very likely you will find orchids during springtime. On the same trail, there are also groves of olive trees, where the prized Empordà virgin olives are grown.
Once you have reached the top and admired the marvellous panoramic views of the Empordà plain, you start the downhill stretch. Here you will find thickets of Montpellier cistus; a plant which is highly valued in some cuisines for its fragrance.
Once you leave the woods, you will reach the road and after a stretch of just over 100 m, you will arrive in the village of Fontanilles, with its majestic Romanesque church from the twelfth century. From here, you will turn back and take another trail which will take you back to Gualta.
Once back in Gualta, you will find in its centre the medieval mill which irrigates the right bank of the river Ter.
An excellent route for discovering the richness of the region and its history.
Tips
Route
- There is a significant uphill section. Although it is short, if you feel tired, stop, keep hydrated and take the chance to admire the views.
- It is important to follow the signals of the track for the route as the ones on the route can sometimes go unnoticed.
Water
- There are no sources of water anywhere on the route.
- Take water from home.
- It is important to hydrate at least once an hour while doing intensive walking.
Precautions
- There could be dogs or other animals loose in the area, so take care if you have children with you.
- Remember to drink frequently and stop for food.
- If you are planning to do the route on your own, make sure you tell someone your itinerary and all of the relevant information so they know where you are at all times.
- Keep an eye out for cars and motorbikes using the trail.
Weather
- Wear sun cream if you plan to do it at times with strong sun, like spring or summer.
- You can do this with moderate precipitation, although it is best to do it in good weather as it will be more enjoyable.
Terrain
- You can use trekking poles to help with the steepest paths and sections.
- Some stretches can be muddy after rain.
Equipment
- Comfortable footwear suitable for walking
- Camera
- Trekking poles
- If using a mountain bike, remember to take equipment to repair or replace inner tubes if you get a puncture.
- Mountain bike safety equipment: Gloves and helmet.
