10k trail loop in Collserola: Valldoreix/ La Rierada

This great loop for running or hiking goes from Valldoreix to the small village of La Rierada via trails and dirt roads. The terrain is mostly woods and shrubby hills with a fair amount of shade.



The exact distance is 11.5 Km, and the accumulated climb is probably around 300 meters. To access the trail head by car, head to Carrer Sant Juan de la Creu, 22. This is only about 200 meters from the Valldoreix FGC train station, so public transportation is a viable option as well.

The turn by turn direction and the map can be obtained on my Wikiloc page

This loop is also a great reference line to depart from and explore several interesting areas of the southern part of the park, such as El Ermita de la Salut or Santa Creu d'Olorda

Collserola - excellent hikes near the city

El Parque Natural de Collserola is a 8.000 Ha hilly wood starting at the upper side of Barcelona and ending beyond the other side of the Tibidabo, the 600m peak that can be seen from the city.

It is a good option for mountain bikers, hikers or trail runners who want to go on a quick day outing or for those without a car. Except for one thing: it is incredibly difficult to find the trailheads!

The park has a nice network of GR trails, marked by red/white or yellow/white paintings. I have to admit that, after two years worth of attempts, I have not yet found the ideal way to get to the strictly wooded areas from Barcelona. This trailhead goes straight into it, but if you're on foot, you will have to take the FGC from Plaça Catalunya to La Floresta and still hike a little ways.