Montseny Hike: Coll Formic to Matagalls & Sant Segimon
13km circular hike from Coll Formic to the Matagalls summit, descending through beech forests to Sant Segimon Sanctuary and Sant Miquel chapel. A top autumn route near Barcelona
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About Montseny Mountain hike from Coll Formic to Matagalls
Matagalls is one of the great classic summits of Catalonia and a favourite among local hikers, especially in autumn when the beech forests of Montseny explode with colour. Rising to 1,697 metres, it forms part of the Parc Natural del Montseny, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its ancient forests, mountain springs and historic hermitages.
Many routes to Matagalls are simple out‑and‑back climbs, but this circular trail from Coll Formic offers a far richer experience. Instead of returning the same way, the route descends through a spectacular beech forest to the Sant Segimon Sanctuary, one of the most atmospheric heritage sites in Montseny. The viewpoint at Sant Miquel dels Barretons above the sanctuary provides some of the most impressive panoramas of the massif.
The second half of the hike follows forest paths lined with ancient, twisted trees, natural springs such as Font del Cims and Font de Matagalls, and a mix of open ridgelines and sheltered woodland. This combination of high‑mountain scenery, heritage architecture and colourful forest makes the Coll Formic to Matagalls loop one of the best autumn and winter hikes near Barcelona.
Sant Segimon Sanctuary History
Sant Segimon Sanctuary has its origins in the 13th century, with the earliest documentation dating from 1290. The sanctuary was built around a natural cave and dedicated to Segimon — the Catalan name for King Sigismund of Burgundy — who, according to legend, lived as a hermit in this very spot between 516 and 520 AD. The story tells that centuries later a shepherd discovered wooden crosses hidden in the cave, inspiring the construction of a chapel and later a small monastic complex.
Over the centuries, Sant Segimon has endured periods of devotion, abandonment and destruction. In 1810, during the Peninsular War, French troops under General Saint‑Cyr burned the sanctuary. Local communities rebuilt it, only for the buildings to suffer further damage during the Spanish Civil War. In 1837, the site passed into private ownership, and today the sanctuary and its adjoining structures are undergoing gradual restoration.
Above the sanctuary stands the small Sant Miquel dels Barretons chapel, likely built in the 16th century by a hermit named Miquel, also from Burgundy. Its unusual name — “Barretons” — comes from a local legend claiming that Roman travellers relieved their headaches by leaving their hats inside the chapel as an offering. Whether myth or memory, the chapel remains one of the most atmospheric viewpoints in Montseny, overlooking the sanctuary and the colourful forests below.
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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.
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🌐 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.
Montseny Mountain hike from Coll Formic to Matagalls Summary of Prices
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Adult
€ 10.80
FREE
Child
€ 10.80
FREE
Group/Family Ticket?
No.
Notes
Walk is free, Return train + bus ticket costs 10.80 Euros.
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.
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