Treat yourself to some forest bathing
If you want to improve your mood and boost your vitality, treat yourself to some forest bathing! Originating in Japan, forest bathing consists of a short guided walk through a mature forest combined with a series of exercises to activate all the senses and connect deeply with the forest ecosystem. This allows you to absorb phytoncides, volatile substances released by plants to communicate with each other, which we absorb through our breath and skin. Are you ready to feel a unique connection with nature? Here we explain the unique features of four forests in the regions around Barcelona, where you can practice this enlightening technique.
Les Graus forest in the Penedès region
A small but highly biodiverse place, perfect for forest bathing. Relax in a forest oasis among vineyards. Walk through a mosaic of centuries-old holm oaks and stone pines that reach heights of over 20 metres. A shelter for animals that feed in the vineyards, but find a shady and peaceful area in this unique forest in the Penedès region. Do as they do and take advantage of this haven of calm to reap all the benefits of forest bathing. The guided tour offered by Sèlvans, a company specialising in forest bathing, is only one and a half kilometres long and ends with a Xarel·lo wine tasting produced by the vineyards of this estate, which also has a rural tourism house. If you are staying in the area, do not forget to visit the Miravinya Balcón del Penedès and enjoy some striking views from Font-rubí. A perfect day out that will fill you with life.
The forest of Cabanes de Dosrius
Immerse yourself in the forest of Cabanes de Dosrius mindfully and without haste. Guided by a certified forest bathing expert, you will get unique impressions and a connection with nature that you have never experienced before. You will walk for two hours at a slow pace through the Corredor Nature Park, a protected area of great scenic and ecological value. Under the shade of forests full of pine, holm oak and oak trees, you will feel the sea breeze, thanks to its proximity to the sea, while absorbing all the benefits of phytoncides. This is a 100% customised activity for couples, families or groups of friends. Since you are in this area of the Maresme region, do not miss the opportunity to enjoy the surroundings and explore its heritage treasures, such as the Canyamars ice well or the Ca l’Arenes dolmen, and visit the Corredor sanctuary with its striking views and a late Gothic church.
Collserola Nature Park
If you are from Barcelona and want to experience forest bathing without having to travel far, you have found the perfect option. Astara offers this experience just 20 minutes from downtown Barcelona, in Collserola Nature Park, which you can reach by public transport. You will discover paths immersed in dense vegetation with an extraordinary diversity of tree and shrub species: a true nature reserve close to the city. Moreover, the presence of small streams refreshes and enriches the site, further enhancing the experience. Did you know that the force of water in nature, together with the sun’s rays, produces negative ions in the air, thus increasing the health benefits and the feeling of relaxation and calm that forest bathing provides? The Astara company is offering this experience, which is customised and adapted to each group and each season of the year to take full advantage of the forest’s energy.
The Alzina de Collbató forest in Montserrat
A forest bathing experience where you will add the energy of the trees to that of the Montserrat mountain. L’Alzina de Collbató offers this experience at the foot of Catalonia’s most famous mountain. A sensory walk in a forest of pine and holm oak trees, with an undergrowth of tinus shrub, broom, strawberry trees, rosemary, thyme and other aromatic plants found in the Montserrat Mountain Nature Park. A perfect combination to connect with the sensations offered by nature and its scents and return home with a relaxed body, a calm mind and a soul filled with the energy conveyed by nature and Montserrat. A mystical experience that you can enjoy on demand and in groups of 10 people. Surprise your family or friends and treat yourself to a forest bath! Do not leave Collbató without exploring its medieval centre and caves. You will love them!
More information:
El bosc de les Cabanes Dosrius
Bany de Bosc a Collserola
El bosc de l’Alzina de Collbató