Montseny Hike: River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe
16km uphill hike from Campins to Santa Fe de Montseny, following the Gualba river, waterfalls, forests and the Santa Fe reservoir. Ideal for autumn, with the option to stay overnight
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About Montseny River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe Hike
This linear route begins in the small village of Campins, at the foot of the Montseny mountains. From here, a series of forest paths and gravel tracks lead towards Gualba, where the real ascent begins. The trail follows the Riera de Gualba, climbing steadily through dense woodland, waterfalls and rocky riverbeds before reaching the high forests of Santa Fe.
The Gualba valley is one of the most atmospheric corners of Montseny, especially in autumn when the chestnut, beech and oak forests turn deep shades of orange, yellow and red. The combination of river cascades, hydroelectric heritage, forest viewpoints and the final arrival at the Pantà de Santa Fe makes this one of the most rewarding autumn hikes near Barcelona.
The route ends at Santa Fe de Montseny, home to a historic stone hostel, a visitor centre and the Avet Blau restaurant — perfect for a warm meal after a long climb.
A litle History
The Pantà de Santa Fe reservoir and the adjoining hotel (now a hostel) were built in the early 20th century by Barcelona publisher Ramon de Montaner i Vila. After purchasing the Santa Fe valley from the Alfaras family, he began constructing a luxury mountain hotel in 1912. A small dam was built to supply water, but it soon became clear that a larger structure was needed.
The project was passed to architect Pere Domènech i Roura, son of the renowned Catalan architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner (designer of the Palau de la Música and Hospital de Sant Pau). The current granite dam was completed in 1935, creating a reservoir of nearly 900,000 cubic metres and providing hydroelectric power to Gualba.
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Visiting Montseny River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe
This route works beautifully as day one of a weekend in Montseny, staying overnight in Santa Fe and continuing the next day with a hike to Riells i Viabrea–Breda. It can also be done as a single‑day outing using the Sagalés 573 bus from Campins and returning from Santa Fe.
From Campins, the trail heads into the forest and crosses the Riera Major several times before reaching Gualba. The climb begins here, following a shaded path beside the Riera de Gualba to a small hydroelectric station. A short optional detour leads to the viewpoint of the Salt de Gualba, a dramatic multi‑tiered waterfall dropping 130 metres.
Beyond the power station, the trail enters dense forest, passing a ruined farmhouse and a beautiful waterfall framed by bright yellow leaves in autumn. The path continues beside the river, climbing over rocks as it curves around a headland marked by the metal cross of La Creu Gran.
Further ahead, the smaller Creu Petita comes into view, shortly before reaching the impressive Salt de Gorg Negre. A little beyond this point, the route turns left and climbs to the second hydroelectric station, Central de Dalt, offering views back down the valley.
The ascent continues through forest until the path joins a wide rural track. As you approach Santa Fe, the trail runs beside the Riera de Santa Fe, with colourful trees and small cascades lining the river.
The climb finally levels out at the Pantà de Santa Fe. A short detour along the top of the dam offers a beautiful panorama of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.
To finish, follow the gentle uphill path to the Santa Fe Hostel (a striking Gothic‑style stone building) and the Can Casades Visitor Centre. The Avet Blau Hostal Restaurant sits just behind the visitor centre and is a great place to eat after the hike.
The route ends here. The Sagalés 573 bus returns to Sant Celoni station, with the final weekend departure around 18:00.
Allow 6–8 hours depending on fitness — the route is uphill almost the entire way.
Hiking Montseny River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe with a Dog
This is an enjoyable and stimulating route for most dogs, with long stretches of forest, streams, leaf‑covered paths and plenty of natural scents from wild boar, deer and rabbits. The terrain is varied but never technical, and the shaded woodland makes it comfortable even for energetic dogs.
In spring and summer, be cautious in pine areas due to the risk of pine processionary caterpillars. However, this hike is best done in late autumn, when the forest colours are at their peak and the risk of caterpillars is minimal.
If you are travelling by public transport, note that dogs are allowed on the Sagalés 573 bus between Sant Celoni, Campins and Santa Fe, but a muzzle is obligatory for all dogs regardless of size. Make sure you bring one with you, as drivers may not permit boarding without it.
What to take with you for Montseny River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe Hike
This is a medium‑hard mountain route with river crossings, rocky sections and long uphill stretches. A small rucksack with essentials and a basic first‑aid kit is recommended.
Carry at least 2 litres of water. Natural springs may be present but are not always reliable.
Wear waterproof footwear and pack a spare pair of socks — river crossings and wet leaves can easily soak your shoes.
An emergency waterproof jacket is useful in Montseny’s changeable weather, especially in autumn.
Montseny River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe Hike 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 River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe Hike
Address: Parc Natural del Montseny, Campins, 08472
Start: Campins de Montseny — reachable via the R2 Rodalies train from Barcelona to Sant Celoni, then the Sagalés 573 bus.
End: Santa Fe de Montseny — return to Sant Celoni via the same 573 bus.
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 573 bus operates only on weekends.
Documents for Montseny River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe Hike
Wikiloc Trail for Montseny River Gualba Waterfalls to Santa Fe Hike
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Where to stay near Santa Fe de Montseny
- Avet Blau Hostal Restaurant Located beside the Pantà de Santa Fe in one of the most beautiful forest areas of Montseny, this hostel offers a peaceful mountain setting with a garden, shared lounge, terrace and on‑site restaurant. Guests have access to free Wi‑Fi and private parking, making it an ideal base for an overnight stay after the hike.
- Masia Can Felip Santa Fe Perfect for groups, this rural house sleeps up to 16 people and includes Wi‑Fi, a barbecue area and a spacious garden. It’s only a short walk from Avet Blau Hostal Restaurant, so you can enjoy dinner out without needing to cook.
- La Barraketa del Montseny A cosy rural house that sleeps up to 8 people, also located in the Santa Fe area. It features Wi‑Fi, a barbecue, a garden and easy access to Avet Blau Hostal Restaurant — ideal if you prefer a quiet stay but still want dining options nearby.
