Hike to Secret Waterfalls of the Pyrenees Mountains, From Barcelona & Girona

Imagine spending a day away from the bustling city streets of Barcelona, wandering through wild mountain landscapes with a small group of fellow adventurers. That’s exactly what this guided Pyrenees hiking tour promises—a chance to explore stunning waterfalls, medieval bridges, and remote trails in one of Spain’s most captivating mountain ranges. We’ve looked into this experience and want to share what makes it special, along with some honest thoughts on what to expect.

Two things we love about this tour: first, the personalized attention with a small group capped at six participants, which means you’re not lost in a crowd. Second, the expert guidance from a trained mountain leader, who makes the day both educational and fun without overloading you with unnecessary details. The only potential consideration? The price point of around $296 per person, which might seem steep for a full-day trip, but for what’s included—snacks, transportation, and a carefully curated route—it’s reasonable if you’re after a quality experience.

This tour will suit those who enjoy moderate physical activity, love exploring nature’s quieter corners, and want a break from urban sightseeing. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer ultra-easy walks, it’s worth noting that the route options allow some flexibility, but a moderate fitness level is recommended.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personal attention and a more tailored experience.
• Expert mountain guides enrich the hike with local knowledge.
• Beautiful scenery including waterfalls, river pools, and forested mountain peaks.
• Choice of routes allows for different fitness levels and distances.
• Comfortable transport with air-conditioned van from Girona.
• Snacks are provided, but you’ll need to bring your own water and consider bringing lunch if you want a full meal.

What to Expect from the Pyrenees Waterfalls Hike

This tour focuses on exploring the Alta Garrotxa area, a rugged and less-traveled part of the Pyrenees. It’s known for its forested peaks and remote trails, offering a more authentic mountain experience compared to more crowded tourist spots. Covering over 32,000 hectares, it’s a landscape teeming with wildlife and natural beauty that’s hard to reach without a guide.

The Journey Begins: From Barcelona

You’ll meet early morning at Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, and then travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle to the mountains. The ride itself is part of the experience, giving you a chance to relax and get in the mood for a day in nature. The trip from the city to Alta Garrotxa takes roughly an hour, but the scenery along the way makes that time fly by.

The Hike: Paths, Waterfalls, and Scenic Highlights

Once in the mountains, your trained guide will lead you along the Path of Valencians, following a river that cuts through the landscape. The trail features numerous turquoise pools—perfect spots for a quick dip if you’re up for it—and natural pools where you can cool off. The Waterfall of Sant Aniol d’Aguja is the standout feature. As one reviewer described, “It’s incredible to jump in and cool off,” which many find to be the perfect reward after a gentle uphill walk.

The route options vary: you can choose between a 6.2-mile (10-km) route, which is manageable if you prefer a more relaxed pace, or a 10-mile (16-km) route if you’re feeling energetic. The terrain is generally suitable for people with moderate fitness levels—the reviews mention that the guide adjusts the pace to suit everyone.

The Waterfall: A Refreshing Finale

The highlight of the day is arriving at the Sant Aniol waterfall, where you can take a dip in the cool water. Multiple reviews praise the experience: “Jumping into the cold water pools was the right thing to do,” and others mention their family enjoyed it, even with young children. It’s a fun, refreshing way to end your hike, with many travelers remarking on how scenic and peaceful the spot is—perfect for photos and creating memories.

Additional Stops and Scenic Points

Along the way, you’ll pass a medieval bridge, adding a bit of historical charm to the wilderness. The trail is remote and offers a genuine chance to disconnect from city life, surrounded by forests and mountain peaks that are blanketed with trees.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Comfort, and Value

This tour starts bright and early at 7:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day. The transportation is in a six-seater air-conditioned van, which is ideal for small groups—more personal and less crowded than larger bus tours. Snacks are included, which is a nice touch, but don’t forget to bring your own water. The tour does not include lunch or train tickets from Barcelona, so plan accordingly.

The price of $296.46 per person might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the full day of guided hiking, transport, snacks, and the exclusivity of a small group, it offers good value—especially if you value a personalized experience and expert guidance.

What’s Not Included

• Lunch (so bring snacks or plan to eat afterward)
• Water (bring enough for the hike)
• Train tickets from Barcelona to the meeting point

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level, which means it’s accessible for most travelers in reasonable shape. However, if you have mobility issues, it’s best to review the route options or discuss with the guide beforehand.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Looking at the glowing reviews, it’s clear that many participants find this hike to be a highlight of their trip. People mention the guide’s knowledge and friendliness multiple times, with descriptions like “Jamie was a wonderful guide—kind, thoughtful, and very knowledgeable.” Several travelers with kids note how well the route was adjusted to suit young children, making it a family-friendly option.

One reviewer shared, “It was a beautiful day of relaxed hiking in autumn-colored mountains,” pointing out how versatile the experience can be depending on the season. Others appreciated the extra touches, like help with train logistics and personalized arrangements.

What You’ll Love

• The stunning scenery—mountains, waterfalls, and forests.
• The small group setting—less rush, more connection.
• The personalized guidance—local insights and route adjustments.
• The opportunity to jump into waterfalls and cool off—refreshing and fun.

Possible Downsides

• The cost might be a barrier for some travelers.
• It’s a full-day commitment, so be prepared for an early start.
• Weather dependency—poor weather could lead to cancellations or a different experience.
• If you’re looking for an extremely easy or leisurely stroll, this might be more active than some prefer.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys moderate hiking and loves discovering less crowded natural spots, this trip could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate expert guidance, want to explore remote mountain scenery, and are comfortable being active outdoors. Families with kids who are used to walking or active outings have found it accommodating, thanks to route flexibility and a friendly guide.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a very relaxed, flat walk. Also, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a half-day excursion, this might be more than you need.

FAQs

How long is the hike?
You can choose between approximately 6.2 miles (10 km) or 10 miles (16 km), depending on your group’s fitness level and interest in a longer walk.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, sunscreen, suitable hiking shoes, and possibly some lunch if you want a full meal—snacks are included, but not lunch.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, many reviews mention that it’s suitable for children, especially with route adjustments for younger hikers. Just ensure everyone has a moderate fitness level.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, transportation in an air-conditioned van from Girona, and guiding by a trained mountain leader are included. Water and lunch are not.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona. The guide helps with logistics, but you’ll need to arrange your train ticket from Barcelona to the meeting spot.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I do this hike in winter?
Yes, the climate makes it possible year-round, though it’s colder in winter. The landscape remains beautiful, and winter hikes often have fewer people.

Final Thoughts

This Pyrenees waterfall hike offers a well-rounded experience for those craving natural beauty, tranquility, and a bit of adventure. The small group setting, knowledgeable guide, and stunning scenery make it a trip worth considering if you’re based in Barcelona and want a genuine mountain escape.

While it’s not the cheapest activity, the inclusion of transportation, snacks, and a personalized approach give it a solid value. If you’re physically up for moderate hiking and love discovering hidden gems, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

In the end, this is a chance to step out of the city, breathe fresh mountain air, and enjoy waterfalls, forests, and mountain peaks that few travelers get to see—and all with a friendly guide who makes the journey memorable. It’s best suited for those who want a meaningful, active day in nature with a small, engaged group.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking and be clear about your fitness level to ensure the best experience.