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Parks

Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona

4.6 · 2,962 reviews
Rugged and serene
Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona, Carrer de les Guilleries, 5, 08519 Vilanova de Sau, Barcelona, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The Benedictine monastery of Sant Pere de Casserres, located within the park, dates back to the 11th century and is the only monastery of its order in the Osona region.

2

The Sau reservoir, which flooded the former village of Sant Romà de Sau, is a prominent feature that reveals the submerged church bell tower during periods of low water.

3

The area is home to the 'Roc de la Mel', a notable sandstone cliff formation frequently used for rock climbing.

4

The park serves as a biological corridor connecting the Montseny Natural Park with the Collsacabra mountains.

5

The local microclimate allows for the coexistence of vegetation typically found in the Pyrenees alongside Mediterranean species.

Overview

Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona is a protected mountain landscape covering over 8,300 hectares between the Collsacabra plateau and the Guilleries massif. The terrain is characterized by sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, and dense forests of holm oak, cork oak, and beech. The area is dominated by the Sau reservoir, which surrounds the Sant Pere de Casserres monastery. Geologically, it features unique rock formations created by the erosion of Eocene sandstone. It serves as a transition zone between Mediterranean and Central European vegetation types. The area is officially designated as a space of natural interest, integrating both wild mountain terrain and cultural heritage sites. It offers an extensive network of marked hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails. The Guilleries sector is notably rich in springs and streams flowing into the Ter river basin.

Photo spot

The viewpoint overlooking the Sant Pere de Casserres monastery as it sits on the peninsula surrounded by the reservoir.

Insider tips

Bring a high-quality physical map or GPS device as mobile signal is inconsistent in the deeper valleys.

Check water levels of the Sau reservoir before arriving if you are specifically interested in seeing the submerged church ruins.

Prioritize visiting during weekdays to avoid peak crowds from Barcelona residents on weekends.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to swim in the reservoir or restricted water bodies, as depth and current safety protocols are strictly enforced.

Etiquette

Stay strictly on marked paths to prevent erosion and protect the sensitive forest undergrowth.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Spring or Autumn for moderate temperatures and optimal hiking conditions.
Address
Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona, Carrer de les Guilleries, 5, 08519 Vilanova de Sau, Barcelona, Spain
41.947, 2.384
Get directions
Details
TerrainMountainous forest and sandstone cliffs
Key ActivitiesHiking, cycling, and heritage site exploration

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring or Autumn for moderate temperatures and optimal hiking conditions..

The viewpoint overlooking the Sant Pere de Casserres monastery as it sits on the peninsula surrounded by the reservoir.

Close by you'll find Parc de les Set Fonts, Sant Pere de Casserres, Morro de l'Abella.