1. Josa Pass Picnic Area 

This picnic area is located on the C-563 road between Gósol and Josa del Cadí, just a few metres from the sign indicating a different region and province, although this particular spot lies just inside the Berguedà region. You’ll find four wooden tables, some of which are in the shade, and a vantage point with views of the quaint village of Gósol and of the west face of Pedraforca Mountain.

GPS: 42°14'58.98"N    1°39'1.58"E

2. Picnic Area of the Hermitage of Sant Ramon (Sant Boi de Llobregat) 

On the Mountain of Sant Ramon, you’ll find a hermitage of the same name, along with 13 wooden tables. Close to the entrance of the chapel, which dates from the end of the 19^th century, there’s a small recreational area and a great stairway from which you can enjoy wonderful views of the Baix Llobregat and Barcelonès regions. The tables, several of which are in the shade, are arranged in three different spots: two next to the chapel and a third, larger one on the mountain side.

GPS: 41°20'15.94"N    2° 0'40.39"E

3. Aiguafreda de Dalt Picnic Area (Aiguafreda)

An amazing spot at the gateway to the Montseny Natural Park. At the historical complex of Aiguafreda de Dalt you’ll find two wooden tables underneath some covered shelters, along with a vantage point on the north side of the church. There’s also a very pretty fountain. The historical complex comprises the 9^th-century Church of Sant Martí, a conjuratory and a cave-crypt. What’s more, this a great starting point for a walk in Montseny Natural Park.

GPS: 41°47'19.38"N    2°15'27.45"E

4. Miranda d’Espiells Picnic Area (Sant Sadurní d’Anoia)

Located in the hamlet of Espiells, there are two shady tables in this lovely spot with plenty of space between them. The picnic area is located at the top of a small hill with a Catalan noucentista-style watchtower after which the place is named. From here you can enjoy some lovely views of the surrounding area.

GPS : 41°26'12.56"N    1°48'38.44"E

5. Mirador dels Apòstols Picnic Area (Abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat)

This picnic area is set on the terrace of the Mirador dels Apòstols (Apostles’ Lookout Point) restaurant. It has 38 wooden tables, some of which are placed close together, while others enjoy more privacy. There’s no shade here but there are some stunning views of the abbey and the surrounding landscape. It’s worth bearing in mind that a farmers’ market is held every day in front of the sanctuary, very close to this picnic area, where you can buy delicious local products such as the famous mató (traditional Catalan fresh cheese) of Montserrat.

GPS: 41°35'38.05"N    1°50'24.29"E

• This is one of a series of articles about the picnic areas in the regions of Barcelona, written by Marta Dachs, creator of the blog Som de pícnic (Picnic People).