Hike to Secret Waterfalls of the Pyrenees Mountains, From Barcelona & Girona

Trying to decide how to experience Spain’s natural beauty beyond the busy city streets? This guided hike to the Pyrenees’ secret waterfalls offers a perfect escape—combining rugged landscapes, tranquil water spots, and a touch of medieval charm. While the tour is set at a reasonable price, it’s particularly suited for those who enjoy moderate physical activity and crave authentic, less touristy outdoor adventures.

One of the highlights we love is how personalized the experience feels, with a small group capped at six. The guides, especially Jamie, who’s praised for his local knowledge and friendly approach, make this outing stand out. That said, it’s worth noting that this is a full-day trip, so it requires decent stamina and a bit of planning, like arranging your train from Barcelona. Still, if you’re seeking a scenic, active day immersed in nature, this is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guidance from a trained mountain leader enhances safety and local insights.
• Flexible routes of 10 km or 16 km accommodate different fitness levels.
• Stunning scenery includes waterfalls, turquoise pools, and remote mountain landscapes.
• Refreshments and snacks are included, adding value to the full-day experience.
• Transport from Girona is in an air-conditioned vehicle, simplifying logistics.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is centered in the Alta Garrotxa, a remote and rugged mountain range known for its forests, wildlife, and striking peaks. Covering over 32,800 hectares, the area’s challenging accessibility has kept it largely untouched, making it a true sanctuary for nature lovers. The climate is dry and mild most of the year, perfect for hiking without the discomfort of excessive heat or cold.

The adventure kicks off early, with a 7:30 am pickup at Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, or from Girona if you choose the transportation option. The journey in a comfortable, air-conditioned six-seater van allows you to relax as you head towards the mountains, which is especially appreciated after a night in the city. With a maximum of six travelers, you’re guaranteed a quieter, more intimate experience compared to bigger tours.

Once in Alta Garrotxa, the guide leads you along the Path of Valencians, following a river where you’ll encounter brilliant turquoise pools—the kind that make you think of tropical beaches rather than mountainous Spain. The highlight is the Waterfall of Sant Aniol d’Aguja, a stunning cascade where you can take a quick dip and cool off, much appreciated on warmer days. Multiple stops allow for photos, rest, and, for the brave, an invigorating swim.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

The Journey There: From Barcelona & Girona

The tour starts early, with pickup at Passeig de Gràcia, a central and easily accessible point. From there, the drive in the air-conditioned van takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. This transport is included in the price, which adds to the overall value, especially considering the convenience of being picked up and dropped off at the same spot.

Exploring Alta Garroxa: Remote Trails and Scenic Views

Once you arrive, the real adventure begins. Your guide, Jamie or another trained mountain leader, will tailor the route based on your group’s fitness level, offering a choice between a 6.2-mile (10 km) or 10-mile (16 km) trek. Both routes snake along the river, passing by turquoise pools and lush forests, offering a feast for the eyes.

Waterfall of Sant Aniol d’Aguja: The Showstopper

The most memorable part is reaching the Waterfall of Sant Aniol d’Aguja. Reviewers describe it as “incredible” and a perfect spot to jump in and cool off. Several visitors mention how the waterfall is a “highlight” and how jumping into the cold water was a “great way to refresh after the hike.” The waterfall is not just stunning but also accessible, making it suitable for families and those who enjoy a good splash.

Cultural Touch: Medieval Bridge and Natural Interest

Along the way, you’ll pass a medieval bridge, adding a historical dimension to the scenery. This spot, along with the area’s designation as an Area of Natural Interest, underscores the unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history that makes Alta Garrotxa special.

Returning and Reflection

After a full day of hiking, swimming, and taking in the views, the van takes you back to the starting point in Barcelona or Girona. The trip duration, at about 8 hours, balances activity with enough time to relax and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

The ticket price of $296.46 per person may seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusions—guiding by a trained mountain leader, snacks, transportation, and a small group—the value becomes clear. You’re paying for not just the scenery, but also for safety, expertise, and a chance to explore an area inaccessible to most travelers on your own.

Authentic reviews highlight the quality of guiding. Jamie, in particular, is praised for his local knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience not only informative but also personable. Many reviews mention how accommodating he is, especially for families and different fitness levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the day.

The route’s flexibility is another plus. You can pick a shorter or longer hike depending on your stamina, with options that suit families with small children or more seasoned hikers. That makes this tour appealing for a broad range of travelers.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Many reviewers felt their expectations were exceeded. One family described their trip as the “highlight of our holiday,” especially noting the jumping into the waterfall and the beautiful autumn scenery. Others appreciated how the guide adjusted the difficulty for different fitness levels, making the day accessible and fun.

The landscape itself is a major draw—remote, untouched, and spectacular. The forests, mountain peaks, and water pools give you a sense of escape from the hustle of city life. Photos only capture part of the magic; being there in person and hearing the sound of rushing water and birds is a different experience altogether.

Practicalities and Tips

• Transport is included from Girona, making it easier to reach the mountains without a rental car.
• Be prepared for a moderate physical activity—comfortable shoes and water are recommended.
• Snacks are provided, but lunch and water are not included, so you might want to bring extra snacks or plan to buy something locally if you’re hungry.
• The tour runs year-round, with winter offering a different, cooler experience—but it’s still good for hiking, weather permitting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, family travelers, and those craving a nature-based escape just a couple of hours from Barcelona. It’s perfect if you value guidance from knowledgeable locals, scenic routes, and the chance to swim in waterfalls. The small group size ensures a more personalized, relaxed experience, which many reviewers appreciated.

If you’re generally in good physical shape and comfortable with moderate hiking, you’ll find this trip rewarding without feeling overexerted. Families with children who are active and enjoy water will particularly enjoy the stops, especially the swimming in the waterfalls.

The Sum Up

This guided hike in Alta Garrotxa offers a beautiful blend of nature, adventure, and cultural sights. With expert guidance, flexible routes, and stunning scenery, it’s a memorable way to escape the city and experience the wild side of Spain. Whether you’re cooling off in waterfalls, crossing medieval bridges, or simply soaking in the mountain views, this tour delivers authentic, quiet moments away from tourist crowds.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll get personal attention and insider insights, making it a genuine, enriching experience. While it’s a full-day commitment, many find the effort well worth the unforgettable scenery and the chance to truly connect with nature.

This trip is best suited for active travelers who want a manageable but immersive mountain adventure, and for families looking for an engaging outdoor activity. If you’re after a scenic, off-the-beaten-path experience that rewards you with peace and striking landscapes, this hike is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Girona is in an air-conditioned six-seater van, and the pickup point in Barcelona is at Passeig de Gràcia. Please note, train tickets from Barcelona are not included.

What is the route difficulty?
The tour offers a choice between a 6.2-mile (10 km) and a 10-mile (16 km) route, accommodating different fitness levels. The terrain is rugged but manageable for those with moderate physical fitness.

Are snacks and meals provided?
Snacks are included in the tour, but lunch and water are not, so plan to bring extra if you need more sustenance during the day.

Can children join this hike?
Yes, many reviews mention children as young as 8, and guides are flexible to adjust the pace accordingly. It’s suitable for families with active children.

Is this experience seasonal?
The tour operates year-round, with the climate generally dry and mild, making it suitable for hiking throughout the year.

What makes the waterfalls special?
The waterfalls, particularly Sant Aniol d’Aguja, are praised for their beauty and accessibility—great spots to dip and refresh, especially on warm days.

How many people will be in my group?
The maximum group size is six, ensuring plenty of personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

This trail promises a genuine taste of mountain life, with enough adventure, scenery, and cultural touches to make it a standout part of your trip to Spain. If you’re looking for a way to step outside the city and into wild nature, this is a tour worth considering.