Catalonia's Summer Hiking Routes Highlight Costa Brava, Cares Gorge and Penedès Waterfalls

Claudia Martínez, ambassador of the Merrell Hiking Club Spain, recommends two standout summer trails. The coastal Camí de Ronda on the Costa Brava runs about 9 km between hidden coves and cliffs, takes 3‑4 hours and is rated medium difficulty. The inland Ruta del Cares traverses the dramatic Cares Gorge for roughly 12 km one‑way, requiring 6‑7 hours and also rated medium, offering cooler temperatures and striking limestone walls.

A separate guide promotes an hour‑away excursion from Barcelona into the Penedès region, where hikers can follow an 8‑km loop that visits four picturesque waterfalls—Salt i la cova dels Capellans, Salt del Cargol, Salt dels Cups and Salt de la Mala Dona. The route is low to medium difficulty, typically completed in three to four hours, and benefits from GPS navigation due to limited signage. Both offerings illustrate a growing trend toward slower, nature‑focused travel in Catalonia during the summer months.