Paths next to the sea

If you enjoy combining your walk with a swim, you’re in luck: you’ll find plenty of paths in the regions of Barcelona that are ideal for exploring the coastline on foot. Signposted and waymarked, they often boast information panels listing the characteristics of the route. A great deal of effort has been made with these paths to ensure that no one gets lost and that everyone can discover the beautiful landscape and nature of this part of the Mediterranean region.

One of the prettiest camins de ronda (coastal footpaths) is the one that connects Calella to Sant Pol de Mar. In ancient times, it was used by fishermen, smugglers and watchmen, but the only people you’ll find on it nowadays are hikers keen to enjoy the spectacular sea views. The Calella Lighthouse Interpretation Centre is well worth a visit. The old lighthouse keeper’s residence has been turned into a museum that offers visitors a fascinating insight into the operation of these structures, so essential for sailors.

The Llobregat Delta is one of the most outstanding natural areas on the Costa Barcelona with charming beauty spots that boast a wide variety of flora and fauna. The route between the Remolar Pond and Viladecans Beach offers plenty of opportunities for observing sea birds, while the trail to the ruins of the Caserna dels Carabiners (old barracks of the carbine-armed cavalry) is ideal for exploring the typical vegetation of a dune landscape. Once you reach El Prat Beach, make your way up to the vantage point of the Illa Pond, the highest in the delta, and be sure to visit the CRAM, a rescue centre that treats cetaceans, tortoises and seabirds before re-releasing them into the wild.

There’s a lovely stretch of coastline between Sitges and Vilanova i la Geltrú. This is the Garraf Coves Route, a trail that follows the GR-92 long-distance footpath and gives you the chance to explore peaceful, isolated beaches. Once you reach Vilanova you can visit the Espai Far, a lighthouse that has been turned into a museum and interpretation centre with an impressive collection of photographs, model boats, fishing gear and implements of other maritime trades. Make sure you visit its garden, where ship propellers, galleon anchors and shipwreck remains are set among tamarind trees that are over 150 years old!


More information:

Maresme Tourist Board
Route from Calella to Sant Pol de Mar
Calella Lighthouse Interpretation Centre
Baix Llobregat Tourist Board
Llobregat Delta
Marine Animal Recovery Centre (CRAM)
Garraf Tourist Board
Garraf Coves Route
Espai Far (Lighthouse Space)