Montseny Hike: Coll Formic to Matagalls & Sant Segimon

Visiting Montseny Mountain hike from Coll Formic to Matagalls

The route begins directly beside the Coll Formic Restaurant, where a well‑marked trail climbs steadily across open mountain plains. This first stretch follows a broad ridgeline with sweeping views of the Montseny massif and the surrounding valleys. The ascent is gradual and scenic, leading to the Matagalls summit at 1,697 metres, crowned by its iconic stone cross and offering panoramic views across Catalonia.

From the summit, the path descends along the Torrent del Sot de les Corders towards a natural spring known as Font del Cims. The trail continues to the sheltered Font de Matagalls, a protected spring housed within a small stone hut. This area marks the transition into one of the most atmospheric sections of the hike: a dense beech forest filled with ancient, twisted trees that feel almost sculpted by time.

The descent continues towards the Turó de Sant Segimon and then drops to the viewpoint at Sant Miquel dels Barretons chapel. From here, the entire Sant Segimon Sanctuary complex comes into view, framed by the colourful autumn canopy that makes this route so popular in October and November.

A rocky path leads down to the sanctuary itself, where the historic buildings now house the Posada Sant Segimon restaurant. This is roughly the halfway point of the loop. If timing allows, it’s worth stepping inside to appreciate the vaulted ceilings, stone walls and rustic mountain atmosphere — whether for a full meal or simply a drink.

After leaving the sanctuary, the route follows the Camí de Sant Segimon, a winding rural track that contours the mountainside. This final section gradually reconnects with the Camí de Coll Formic, completing the circular loop back to the starting point.

Plan for 6–8 hours to comfortably complete the full circuit, allowing time to enjoy the viewpoints, springs and forest sections along the way.

Hiking the Montseny Coll Formic to Matagalls route with a Dog

This circular route is generally suitable for dogs and offers a good mix of open mountain plains, shaded forest paths and steady gradients. The ascent from Coll Formic to the Matagalls summit follows wide, open trails with excellent visibility, making it easy to keep your dog close and safe. The summit area is spacious, though windy days are common, so be prepared for stronger gusts at higher altitude.

The descent towards Font del Cims and Font de Matagalls passes through dense beech forest, a section most dogs enjoy thanks to the cool shade and soft forest floor. In spring and summer, remain alert for pine processionary caterpillars in any pine areas, although the risk on this particular route is lower than in other parts of Montseny.

The rocky path leading down to Sant Miquel dels Barretons and the Sant Segimon Sanctuary requires a bit more attention, especially for dogs with sensitive paws or limited experience on uneven terrain. Once at the sanctuary, the rural track of the Camí de Sant Segimon provides an easy and comfortable return towards Coll Formic.

With basic precautions and plenty of water, this becomes a rewarding full‑day outing for both you and your dog.

Where to Eat When Hiking to Matagalls

Food options on this route are centred around Coll Formic and the Sant Segimon Sanctuary. Because this is a full‑day mountain hike, it’s best to carry enough snacks or a packed lunch, especially if you’re unsure about timing or weekend opening hours.

• 🌐 Restaurant Coll Formic
  A traditional Catalan masia restaurant located at the trailhead. It serves grilled meats, hearty mountain dishes and simple breakfasts — ideal before starting the hike or for a late lunch after completing the loop.
  📍 Carretera Seva–Palautordera BV‑5301, El Brull
• Posada Sant Segimon
  A rural restaurant housed inside the restored buildings of the former Monestir de Sant Segimon. Expect Catalan dishes, grilled meats, local produce and artisan beers. Even if you don’t stop for a full meal, stepping inside for a drink is worthwhile for the vaulted ceilings and rustic mountain atmosphere.
  📍 Sant Segimon Sanctuary, Parc Natural del Montseny

Both restaurants are popular on weekends, so consider checking opening hours in advance if you’re planning to eat on the route.

What to take with you for Montseny Mountain hike from Coll Formic to Matagalls Hike

This is a medium‑difficulty mountain route with a mix of exposed ridgelines, shaded beech forests and rocky descents, so packing with changing conditions in mind makes the day far more comfortable. The climb from Coll Formic to the Matagalls summit is open and often windy, while the descent towards Sant Segimon passes through cooler, sheltered woodland.

Carry at least 2 litres of water. Although there are natural springs such as Font del Cims and Font de Matagalls, flow can vary seasonally, so it’s best not to rely on them as your only source. Bring snacks or a packed lunch, especially if you’re unsure about restaurant opening hours at Coll Formic or Sant Segimon.

A lightweight windproof or waterproof jacket is essential for the summit and ridge sections, where weather can change quickly. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are recommended for the rocky descent to Sant Miquel dels Barretons and the uneven forest paths around the sanctuary.

In autumn and winter, temperatures drop sharply at higher altitude, so consider an extra insulating layer. In spring and summer, be mindful of pine processionary caterpillars in any pine zones, though the risk on this route is relatively low.

A small first‑aid kit, sun protection and a fully charged phone round out the essentials for a safe and enjoyable day in Montseny.

Getting to Montseny Mountain hike from Coll Formic to Matagalls

Address: Carretera Seva-Palautordera BV-5301 s/n, El Brull, 08559

Coll Formic is one of the most accessible starting points for hiking in Montseny. The simplest option is to arrive by car, with a dedicated parking area near Coll Formic Restaurant. From here, the circular Matagalls route begins directly from the parking area.

It’s also possible to reach Coll Formic using public transport. Take the R3 Rodalies train from Barcelona to Balenyà–Tona–Seva station. From there, connect with the Sagalés 484 bus, which runs up to Coll Formic on weekends. This combination makes Matagalls one of the few major Montseny summits accessible without a car.

For convenience, Renfe offers a combined Train + Bus ticket called De Casa a Montseny – Parc Natural del Montseny, available at station ticket machines. The ticket covers the full return journey and is an easy way to organise the trip.

Note: The Sagalés 484 bus operates only on weekends, so plan accordingly if you’re travelling without a car.

Documents per a l'excursió al Montseny des del Coll Formic fins al Matagalls

Wikiloc Trail for Montseny Mountain hike from Coll Formic to Matagalls

a0261 - Montseny Coll Formic to Matagalls

Outstanding beauty & spectacular hiking trails to mountain summits, cliffs, rivers, waterfalls, plains & woodlands. The best place for autumn hiking in Catalunya

Transport Network: Rodalies + Bus Return Travel Fare: €10.80 Distance: 12.47 Difficulty: MEDIUM

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