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Just a short train ride from Barcelona’s bustling center, the hike from Vallvidrera to La Floresta offers a revitalizing escape into nature. This scenic route winds through the lush landscapes of Collserola Natural Park, following a section of the GR 96 known as the Camí Romeu de Montserrat. Spanning roughly 8 to 10 kilometers, the trail typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete, making it ideal for a half-day adventure.
Train Ride
To get to Vallvidrera, take the S1/S2 commuter train to Peu de Funicular station. From there take the funicular to Vallvidrera Superior station. The funicular is connected to Peu de Funicular train station and the ride is included in the train ticket.
Starting in Vallvidrera
The journey begins at Vallvidrera Superior station, you are greeted by charming Modernista houses and glimpses of the Montserrat mountain range in the distance. From this elevated starting point, the trail descends briefly through the picturesque town before entering the heart of Collserola Park.
To get to the trail going into Collserola, walk to Plaça de Vallvidrera and turn on Carrer de l’Alcalde Miralles. From there walk past the market and keep going past the library and Escola Nabí.
Vallvidrera Reservoir
After a short walk you will reach the Vallvidrera reservoir, a tranquil, historic site that supplied drinking water to the town of Sarrià until the end of the 19th century. At the far end of the reservoir you can enter the GR 96 trail, which is marked with red and white at intersections.
Arriving in La Floresta
The Plaça Miquel Ros, next to the La Floresta station, is a good place to have a drink and something to eat before heading back to city by train. On Sundays there is a market in the Plaça, which is a popular event to gather for the local community. La Floresta is known for its hippy and alternative culture.
🍃 See also: Guide to Hiking in and Around Barcelona