Collserola Natural Park

Collserola Natural Park is a park the preserves part of the Serra de Collserola mountains in Barcelona (province) and Barcelona city.

Understand
Collserola is a vast green oasis that provides a serene escape from the bustling city of Barcelona. Covering over 8,000 hectares, it is one of the largest metropolitan parks in the world. Visitors can explore lush forests, picturesque valleys, and diverse flora and fauna. With numerous well-marked trails, it's a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. The park also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona and the surrounding coastline.



History
Collserola has a rich history dating back centuries. Its name originates from the Latin phrase "Collis Cereoli," meaning "Hill of Cereus." The park's terrain has witnessed human settlements, from ancient Iberian tribes to medieval hermitages. The historic Sant Medir hermitage and Tibidabo amusement park are notable landmarks within the park. In 1987, Collserola was designated as a natural park, preserving its ecological and historical significance.

Landscape
The park's landscape is a captivating blend of Mediterranean vegetation, featuring oak and pine forests, and rugged mountains. The highest peak, Tibidabo, offers panoramic vistas of Barcelona. Collserola's diverse terrain is home to an array of wildlife, including wild boars, foxes, and numerous bird species. The park's watercourses, like the Riera de Vallvidrera, add to its charm. Whether you're seeking tranquility or adventure, Collserola's landscape has something for everyone.

Flora and fauna
Collserola Natural Park is a haven for biodiversity. Its Mediterranean climate nurtures a wide range of plant species, from aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme to evergreen oaks and Aleppo pines. The park's wildlife is equally impressive, with sightings of red squirrels, European badgers, and elusive wildcats. Birdwatchers will delight in the park's diverse avian population, including Eurasian eagle-owls and Bonelli's eagles. Spring and early summer bring vibrant wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the landscape. Collserola's commitment to conservation ensures the preservation of this rich flora and fauna for generations to come.

Climate
Collserola enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The park experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Summers are warm but not excessively hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather for hiking and exploring the park's natural beauty. Visitors can expect sunny days and occasional rain showers, so it's advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your visit.

Get in
Collserola Natural Park is conveniently accessible from Barcelona. The easiest way to reach the park is by taking public transportation. From the city center, hop on the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) S1 or S2 train lines, which connect directly to park entrances like Vallvidrera, Les Planes, or Baixador de Vallvidrera. The FGC stations are well-connected to the city's metro system, making it a seamless journey. If you prefer to drive, Collserola is accessible via the B-20 highway, with parking facilities available at various points around the park.

Visitors can also opt for guided tours or join local hiking groups for a more immersive experience. Collserola's accessibility ensures that nature lovers can escape the urban hustle and bustle of Barcelona within minutes.



Fees and permits
it's free to enter.

Get around

 * BV-1415 carretera de Cerdanyola
 * Carretera del Cementiri de Collserola
 * BP-1417 carretera de San Cugat a Barcelona or carretera de la Rabassada
 * BV1462 carretera de Vallvidrera
 * BV1468 carretera de Molins de rei a Vallvidrera
 * Carretera de Vallvidrera al Tibidabo

See




Do

 * Hiking or walking the tracks on the parc. The GR92 runs across the full length of the park from nordeast to west.
 * MTB: there are multiple track to follow. MTB in single tracks is restricted.
 * Cycling: la Rabassada and Vallvidrera are much prefered ports among local cylist

Events

 * Aplec de Sant Medir. The Aplec de Sant Medir is celebrated every March 3. In Sant Cugat del Vallès this celebration is dedicated to the co-patron of the town, and it is traditional for villagers to walk to the hermitage. Attendees usually make an offering of a candle to the image of the saint. It is also traditional to distribute beans among the people attending in memory of those cultivated by the saint and which legend claims bring good luck. A large popular lunch is celebrated, the traditional dance of sardanes and giants, and a Human tpwers (Castellers) performance.
 * Aplec de Sant Iscle. This popular meeting is held annually, on the third Sunday of November, in the old Romanesque church of Sant Iscle and Santa Victòria de les Feixes in Cerdanyola del Vallès. In the morning, there are performances of popular dances and, right after, a mass with the traditional distribution of blessed bread, which popular tradition says must be kept to prevent theft. Later, great sardana dance and brotherhood lunch.
 * Aplec de La Salut de Sant Feliu de Llobregat. The gathering is dedicated to Our Lady of Health. Every Whit Monday (Dilluns de Pascua Granada)the villagers go on a pilgrimage to the hermitage located in Collserola carrying the image of the Virgin Mary. One of the most outstanding events of the day is the one that takes place at the end of the solemn mass that is celebrated at noon: the Ball of the Soca, a ritual dance that probably originated in an archaic cult.
 * Aplec de la Salut del Papiol. The Papiol Health gathering is held every second Sunday in September on the esplanade of the Hermitage of Health, located at the foot of Puig Madrona. The hermitage is open every Sunday. There is a night vigil with fellowship dinner and a popular lunch with mass and Sardana dancing.

Drink
Most restaurants in the area also has a bar.

Springs
On long drought episodes water sources may get dry. Also sometimes water is not potable. Check signs on the spring.

Sleep
The best is to look for lodging in Barcelona city, as this park is accesible with public transportation.



Stay safe

 * There are a lot of wild boar around. do not feed them.
 * Some time there are wild boar hunting activities to keep population at reasonable levels. Be careful and avoid the hunting area. Areas are well signaled.

Go next

 * Parc de la Serralada de Marina to de NE following GR92
 * Parc del Garraf to de SW following  GR92