Aiguafreda

Within the Montseny Natural Park, with a significant portion of the municipality covered by lush pine and holm oak forests, Aiguafreda remains closely linked to the neighboring region of Osona, yet is not subject to the characteristic winter fog. Streams and springs introduce visitors to the riparian vegetation, with extensive poplar groves that change color to reflect the renewed light each season in a landscape dotted with small architectural examples from the past.

Nature tourism

Aiguafreda, located between Montseny (Natural Park) and the Cingles de Bertí (PEIN), is recognized as an essential starting point for nature and sports lovers in Catalonia. Since the beginnings of the Catalan Hiking Center in the 19th century, Aiguafreda has been a key starting point for numerous expeditions and discoveries. Today, it offers an extensive network of trails that allow you to explore a diverse environment close to Barcelona. Aiguafreda is a crossing for several Long-Distance Trails, such as the GR-2 and GR-5, and the start of emblematic routes such as the Matagalls-Montserrat and the Travessa del Montseny. In addition, from here you can discover Catalan hiking highlights, such as Tagamanent hill, the Trona viewpoint, and Puigfred, the highest point of the Cingles de Bertí.

Finally, its strategic location is reflected in its proximity to the regional capitals, half an hour from Barcelona and the beach, and just over an hour from the ski resorts of the Pyrenees.

Ramon Margalef Park

A 1000 m2 space, previously unused until 2023, has been converted into a walking and recreational area. This transformation has benefited the community with the installation of benches and trees, providing a place of rest for the residents of the upcoming senior care home. The park, dedicated to the scientist Ramon Margalef, is located near the Riera de Martinet, where he carried out many of his nature studies. His three sculptures, "Fros, Silanis, Tirsi", donned by the artist Albert Cruells, are part of a collection that symbolizes the effervescence of Mediterranean culture and integrates with Margalef's scientific legacy, creating a symbiotic relationship between public space and naturalistic research.

Avencó and Martinet Valleys

The Martinet and Avencó valleys, located to the west of Montseny, are cut by streams that give the valleys their name, serving as traditional entrances to the heart of the massif. Their ecological values, from the riparian forests to the highest peaks, make them places of natural interest. The Avencó Valley, a long-inhabited area, and the more reserved Martinet Valley offer a contrast that makes them worthy of exploration. Aiguafreda, surrounded by these two valleys, becomes an ideal starting point for discovering them and exploring Montseny in general.

Permanent Orientation Circuit of Aiguafreda de Arriba

Created in 2013 at the initiative of the Aiguafreda Town Council, this is a permanent circuit for orienteering. Consisting of fifteen fixed markers, which are extended with mobile markers during races or competitions, it is ideal for both training and organizing walks and excursions following the markers. The finish lines are located in areas of natural or cultural interest, allowing you to discover emblematic places in the municipality and enjoy breathtaking landscapes. Maps for the circuit can be purchased at affordable prices at the Aiguafreda Town Council (weekday office hours), at the Tourist Information Office (weekends), and at the "El Punto" Youth Information Service (weekday afternoons).

Cultural tourism

Prehistoric Origins

The Dolmens of the Sierra del Arca, dating from 2500-2000 BC, are prehistoric witnesses of the first communities in Aiguafreda.

Iberian, Roman and early medieval periods

Despite the lack of information from these periods, the presence of the Roman road at Congost is an important indicator. The Aiguafreda de Dalt cave-crypt and related archaeological finds are particularly noteworthy.

The Medieval Origins of Aiguafreda

The consecration of the parish church of Sant Martí in 898 marks the beginning of the documented history of Aiguafreda. The church of Sant Martí in Aiguafreda de Dalt and the Romanesque chapels in the Avencó Valley bear witness to this era.

Urban and Architectural Evolution

The urban development of Aiguafreda was consolidated in the 19th century, with the relocation of the town center to Les Ferreries. The construction of new infrastructure, such as the Ribes road and the railway, marked this evolution, with a significant impact on urban architecture. The farmhouses in the area are accessible via the GR-5 trail between Aiguafreda and El Brull.

The urban center of Aguafría

The town of Aiguafreda was formed beginning in the 16th century, around the royal road from Barcelona to Vic. With the arrival of the train and road in the 19th century, the Ferreries neighborhood became the main urban center. From that moment on, it underwent significant urban development, with the construction of modernist towers and other architectural styles. Today, a signposted route allows visitors to explore Aiguafreda's old town, with a wide variety of businesses offering services to visitors, many of them with a long history of serving the community.

The Church of Saint Mary of Aguafría

The parish church of Santa Maria is a modern building inaugurated in 1970 and consecrated by the Bishop of Vic, Ramon Masnou. Its construction was promoted by a parish council and received strong popular support through campaigns and donations. Designed by the architectural studio of Juan Antonio Cendoya, the building follows the precepts of the Modernist movement and the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), fusing materials and architectural solutions with theological discourse. Thus, it becomes a functional space charged with symbolism.

Mountain sports capital of Montseny

Aiguafreda's strategic location, surrounded by geographical diversity such as the Plana de Vic, the Cingles de Bertí, and the Montseny, makes it a perfect destination for mountain sports enthusiasts.

Interest in these sporting activities dates back to the first scientific hikers at the end of the 19th century, especially with the arrival of the railway.

The Congost Valley Mountain Race (March) stands out among other events such as popular hikes, treks and mountain races.

Aiguafreda is an important connection hub in the long-distance trail network ( GR-2 and GR-5 ).

Every weekend, more people leave Aiguafreda to go on hiking or mountain biking excursions.

The municipality also offers a permanent circuit for orienteering races, starting at the monumental complex of Aiguafreda de Dalt.