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30/10/2023
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21/05/2025GREEN GETAWAYS: SECRET TRAILS AROUND BARCELONA
Vibrant and cosmopolitan, Barcelona also offers oasis of tranquility just steps from the hustle and bustle of the city. As your refuge in the city, we want to reveal green getaways around Barcelona where nature invites you to unwind and recharge.
Here are some suggestions:
The Hidden Charm of Collserola: Beyond Tibidabo
The Collserola Natural Park, with Tibidabo at its summit, is the green lung of Barcelona. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and head out onto the “Carretera de les Aigües,” a gentle, panoramic path that winds through the mountains, perfect for a walk or a run with spectacular views of the city and the sea.
It’s also fully accessible by public transport. To get there, you can take the FGC (Catalan Railways) to the Peu del Funicular stop and then take the funicular for one stop, or walk along the path to the left of the funicular.
The Besòs River Trails: Riverine Nature in the City
In the last 9 kilometers of the Besòs River, we find the Besòs River Park, a green getaway in Barcelona that extends to its mouth in the Mediterranean Sea. This space has been restored over the last two decades from a state of complete degradation to become a new space for local residents, where the flora and fauna have been reclaiming the river and its surroundings. It’s ideal for family walks and bike rides, with flat and accessible trails.
There are multiple options to reach different parts of the Besòs River Park. Our favorite is to take the T4 tram line to Sant Adrià Station and follow the signs from there. If you’d like to learn more about this magnificent place, visit the Barcelona Provincial Council website.
Parc del Guinardó: A Forest in the City
Guinardó Park is probably not the best-known park in Barcelona, probably because it’s not centrally located or designed by a famous architect. We find ourselves in a forest of large trees, shrubs, and aromatic herbs where you can relax, strolling along the sloping paths and enjoying the views Barcelona has to offer. It’s a peaceful place, ideal for a family stroll and cooling off in one of its fountains.
There are several routes to get to the park. The closest to Casa Jam is to start at the Guinardó metro line 4 stop and then head uphill until you find Plaça del Nen de la Rutlla, which is one of the many entrances to Guinardó Park.
Parc de Montjuïc : The Magic Mountain
Montjuïc Park in Barcelona is an incredibly diverse place, full of activities to enjoy, one of the favourites green getaways in Barcelona. It is the largest park in the city and is located on a hill, from which you can admire both the city and the harbor. Here are some ideas of what you could enjoy:
Montjuïc Castle: You can hike up to the castle, an old fortress, and enjoy spectacular views of the city and the sea. You can also explore the castle and learn about its history.
Montjuïc Gardens: There are several beautiful gardens, such as the Laribal Gardens or the Joan Miró Gardens. They are perfect for a walk, relaxing, or having a picnic.
Joan Miró Foundation: If you like art, the Joan Miró Foundation houses a large collection of works by the famous Catalan painter and sculptor.
National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC): Located in the National Palace of Montjuïc, this museum has an impressive collection of Romanesque, Gothic, and Modernist art, as well as breathtaking views from its terrace.
Montjuïc Cable Car: A unique experience to reach the top of Montjuïc, enjoying spectacular views while traveling in the cable car.
Olympic Stadium: You can visit the Olympic Stadium, which hosted the 1992 Olympic Games, and explore its facilities.
Just like with the other routes mentioned in this post, you can reach Montjuïc Park in different ways. The most original is to take the Montjuïc cable car and enjoy spectacular views. The public transport alternative is to take the metro to the Paral·lel stop on lines 2 and 3, and then take the Montjuïc funicular, which will take you inside the park.
Tips for Your Green Getaways in Barcelona
Get Prepared: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, sun protection, and some food.
Check the Maps: Learn about the trails and their difficulty levels.
Respect Nature: Don’t leave trash, don’t make fires, and respect the local flora and fauna.
Transportation: Most of these places are accessible by public transport, so check the options to get there.
