Tour of the Montgrí Massif

Once you arrive in the centre of Torroella de Montgri, at Plaça Empordà, follow the signs or your GPS to the Castell Montgri visitor car park. The hike starts at the intersection of Ronda Pau Casals and Cami dels Tres Pins. A hiking sign indicates the direction to take.

(S/E) The hike begins on a gentle slope along the GR®92, heading north.

(1) Leave the GR®92 for a moment, continuing northwards. The markings reappear further on, and the path remains clear. The terrain gradually becomes steeper and rockier. After passing the three chapels (with a bit of luck, you may see some goats), you will arrive at the Col de Santa Caterina, marked by a cross.

(2) Leave the marked trail and head north-west towards Muntanya d'Ullà. The trail is not very well marked but it is easy to follow: don't hesitate to use the GPS track by switching to the OSM Trails map.

(3) When you reach an unnamed pass, the trail becomes more discreet. Continue using the GPS track if necessary and reach the summit of Muntanya d'Ulla: a magnificent 360° panorama unfolds, with the Pyrenees and the legendary Canigou, the bay of Rosas, the plains of Emporda, etc.

(4) Enjoy the view before beginning the descent. The trail is also poorly marked in this section: follow the GPS track if necessary.

(5) Turn right, heading north, and you will come to a forest road.

(6) Turn right again and follow the road for about 2 km.

(7) Just after Forn de Calç, turn left onto a good track towards the Santa Caterina Hermitage.

(8) Enjoy a visit to the hermitage and, depending on the time, a break at the bar. Then continue up a stony climb to reach an unnamed pass.

(9) Follow the path on the right that heads east and then south to Montplà.

(10) Continue descending until you reach the final approach to Montgri Castle at Coll d'en Garrigars.

(11) Begin the ascent to the castle, passing a few tricky climbing sections on rocks smoothed by hikers. Follow the GPS track carefully and keep an eye out for the red and white markers. Reach the castle. Admire the spectacular 360° panorama, taking in the Medes Islands, the bay of l'Estartit, the vast plains of the Empordà, the bay of Roses and, on a clear day, the Canigou on the horizon.

(12) Then join the GR®92 and begin the descent towards the Col de Santa Caterina, remaining vigilant: the path is stony and worn by hikers.

(2) Follow the path on the left that you took on the way up to finish the hike and return to the car park (S/E).

The trail is sometimes difficult to spot between points (2) and (5). There is a series of scree slopes, steep climbs and passages where you sometimes need to use your hands.

Between (11) and (12), pay close attention to the markings, which can sometimes be difficult to see. This section requires good orientation and terrain reading skills.

The hike is accessible all year round, but avoid the hottest hours of the day in summer and rainy, humid days.

Bring between 2 and 3 litres of water, as there are no refreshment points along the route.

The best light is in the morning to fully enjoy the view.

(12) Castell Mongri Castle, open to the public, offering a great vantage point to admire the view.

(8) The Hermitage of Santa Caterina.