Think of a territory where you will find high snowy peaks, fast mountain rivers, forests taken from fairy tales, important wetlands, breathtaking cliffs and even volcanoes. You may not know it, but you are thinking of Catalonia.

 

In this Autonomous Community, nature is a word that is written in capital letters. In any of its corners, whatever the time you visit, you will find true natural gems in which to experience endless activities in nature in Catalonia.

 

More than 30% of Catalonia is protected land. It has a National Park, Aigüestortes and Estany de Sant Maurici, and 17 other parks and natural sites. Therefore, activities abound to learn about the fauna in its natural habitat. If you like birding, there are four places (the Delta del Ebro, the Delta de Llobregat, Aiguamolls de l'Empordá and the National Park itself) especially recommended for this.

Hiking among the main activities in nature in Catalonia. There is a long network of trails that go from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean. Some long-haul routes (such as the GR 211, which goes through the Val d'Aran, or the GR 11, which reaches Cap de Creus) and others of small route, for everyone (such as the Camí dels Bons Homes or the routes through the Garrotxa, territory of volcanoes).

 

You can also do these roads and greenways on horseback or by bicycle. And, if you prefer BTT, you will find 18 centers with their respective mountain routes to pedal.

 

Climbing is also a highly valued activity in Catalonia. One of the best places to practice it is the Collegats gorge, in the Pre-Pyrenees. If you are in the south, on the contrary, you should go to the Sierra de Prades or the Montsant. At any time of the year you can dedicate yourself to this sport.

 

On the other hand, if yours is not the rock but the water, you have many options. At sea, you can take ecotourism trips by boat, windsurfing, rowing or diving. In the interior, the rivers and reservoirs of Catalonia offer you the opportunity to practice canoeing and paddle surfing, or to release adrenaline by descending the whitewater in kayak, rafting or hydrospeed.

 

That's fine for summer. For winter, on the other hand, it is more advisable to go to the Pyrenees and try the numerous ski slopes. And if you want an unforgettable experience, the Terres de Lleida is an incredible place to meet from the air, balloon or paragliding. Even more unforgettable? Dare with the free fall and skydiving in Empuriabrava.