CALDES DE MALAVELLA HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Alta Garrotxa in a Day: A Rugged 8‑Hour Hike from Caldes de Malavella to Sant Aniol d'Aguja
An 8-hour guided day hike through the remote, forested peaks and turquoise river pools of the Alta Garrotxa, useful for planning logistics, gear, and what to expect on the trail.
Alta Garrotxa in a Day: A Rugged 8‑Hour Hike from Caldes de Malavella to Sant Aniol d'Aguja.
Embark on an 8-hour exploration of the Alta Garrotxa from Caldes de Malavella: a carefully curated day hike that threads remote forested peaks, turquoise river pools and the stand‑out Sant Aniol d'Aguja waterfall. The route covers roughly 14 km with about 300 m of elevation gain, and groups are limited to six people for a personalized experience.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Rugged, Remote Peaks of Alta Garrotxa
Alta Garrotxa is prized for its remoteness and rugged terrain—mountain peaks blanketed in forest across an area declared an Area of Natural Interest. The setting provides a true getaway into Catalonia’s wild side and clean, dry conditions suitable for hiking year‑round.
Turquoise Pools and Sant Aniol d'Aguja Waterfall
The Path of the Valencians winds along the river, passing vivid turquoise pools before reaching the waterfall of Sant Aniol d'Aguja—the highlight of the hike and a popular spot to cool off after the trail.
A Day Route from Sadernes via Historic Bridges
The drive and approach pass landmarks such as the medieval bridge of Valenti; the walk itself begins beside a hostel in Sadernes and follows established paths through gorge and forest, giving a balanced day of river travel and mountain cresting.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
You’ll start with a short road transfer from the meeting point to Sadernes, then hike a compact loop that follows riverside trails and climbs toward forested ridgelines. The day alternates easy riverside walking—where turquoise pools cue photo stops—with steeper stretches that reward you with views over the gorge, finishing at the dramatic Sant Aniol d'Aguja waterfall.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day hike suits best.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring running or hiking shoes, sun hat, suntan lotion, comfortable sports/hiking clothing, a packed lunch and at least 1 litre of water.
Sturdy hiking or running shoes and layered, comfortable clothing recommended for variable conditions.
Pack a packed lunch and at least 1 litre of water; lunch and water are not included in the tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the hike?
The full outing runs approximately 8 hours.
Where do we meet and how do we get there?
You meet the leader outside either Girona or Caldes de Malavella Train Station; transport from those stations to the trailhead is provided.
What is included in the price?
The trip includes the expertise of the trip leaders and transport from Girona or Caldes de Malavella Train Station.
What is not included?
Excluded items are lunch, water and the train ticket from Barcelona.
How large are the groups?
Group size is limited to a maximum of six people to ensure a personalized experience.
Is there an opportunity to swim?
Yes—the Sant Aniol d'Aguja waterfall and nearby turquoise pools are a highlight and are often used to cool off on the day.