After three years of continuous decrease of water in the reservoirs , the endless rains of March have done something that seemed impossible: bring life back to the marshes. And although they are still far from that 2021, when they all looked almost full, now the average, which already exceeds 60%, allows us to enjoy images that we have not seen for a long time, such as the one of the church of the reservoir practically covered by water.
For this reason, we have thought that a good idea for a getaway near Barcelona for these spring days is to go out to the marshes, waterfalls or rivers of Catalonia that these days look a second youth. So, we leave you some good ideas to go out and remember how much you missed the water.
Sallent waterfall in Rupit
The Salto de Sallent, with more than 100 meters of fall, is the highest waterfall in Catalonia and now, evidently, looks at its best. It is in the region of Osona, and see the water plummeting from its heights is now a spectacle. The route to get there is very simple and, with the added bonus of starting in, or passing through, the charming medieval village of Rupit, with its famous suspension bridge and cobbled streets, one of the most famous attractions in the area.
🗺️ How to get there: From Barcelona, take the C-17 towards Vic and then the C-153 to Rupit. From the village, there is a well-marked hiking route to the waterfall.
La Baells Reservoir in Berguedà
The reservoir of La Baells is one of those that has returned more images of joy after the rains, after exceeding 95% of its capacity. The opening of its floodgates to drain the reservoir, one of the most iconic images after the rains, has attracted curious onlookers who want to witness the spectacle of its controlled drainage. It is now a perfect setting to enjoy nature with hiking or biking trails. In addition, kayaking or paddle surfing activities have been recovered in calm waters.
🗺️Cómo to get there: From Barcelona, take the C-16 towards Berga and follow the signs to the reservoir.
Salt del Mir in Santa Maria de Besora
Hidden in the Osona region , the waterfall of Salt del Mir, 35 meters high, is an unknown gem. A small landscape of Avatar that is now in one of its best moments, and is reached by a comfortable walk that allows you to reach the foot of the waterfall and feel how the water seems to come over us. A beautiful place with good accommodation and good places to eat along the way.
🗺️Cómo to get there: From Barcelona, take the C-17 to Sant Quirze de Besora and then the BV-5227 to Santa Maria de Besora. From there, follow the signposted route to the waterfall.
Sau Reservoir
The most iconic of all has to be on this route. The Sau Reservoir, has recovered much of its water volume, submerging again the famous bell tower of the church of Sant Romà de Sau. Its calm waters and surrounded by reddish cliffs create a spectacular landscape that is worth seeing again, and take advantage, while we are at it, to do activities such as kayaking, hiking and mountain biking.
🗺️Cómo to get there: From Barcelona, take the C-17 to Vic and then follow the N-141d towards Vilanova de Sau.
Gorg del Pare in the Natural Park of Sant Llorenç del Munt.
The park’s pools and waterfalls have been filling up again after months of scarcity, and the Gorg del Pare is one of the most beautiful. Located near the Font de l’Escolà, this corner is perfect for a short hike with the reward of a small waterfall at the end of the trail. Easy getaway to enjoy the water without suffering on well-marked trails near Barcelona.
🗺️Cómo to get there: From Barcelona, take the C-58 to Terrassa and then follow the signs to Sant Llorenç del Munt Natural Park. There are several accesses from Matadepera or Mura.
Fonts de Rellinars
The Rellinars stream is full again and its natural springs are the ideal plan for a picnic. Easy trails and many spaces to sit and take the fresh air near the water surrounded by spectacular scenery.
How to get there: From Barcelona, take the C-58 to Terrassa and then the BV-1221 towards Rellinars.
Foix Reservoir
Now that its drought aspect is as far away as the Crim de la Guardia Urbana, it’s time to return to the Pantà de Foix to enjoy the natural park that surrounds it and look at the medieval castle of Castellet that presides over the landscape.
How to get there: From Barcelona, take the AP-7 to Vilafranca del Penedès and then follow the BV-2115 to Castellet.