Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom Hike | Pyrenees Trail
10 km autumn hike from Urtx-Alp to La Molina through mushroom-rich forest. Foraging tips, safety, recipes, and Catalan mushroom culture
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About the Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom Hunting Route
Catalonia’s forests are home to over 2,000 varieties of mushrooms — known locally as bolets — some of which are endemic to the region. From autumn through early spring, these forests come alive with colour and texture, making it the ideal season for mushroom foraging.
One of the most rewarding places to explore is the Bosc del Carboner Mort, a damp, mixed forest nestled between the Renfe stations of Urtx-Alp and La Molina, just below the La Molina Ski Resort. This 10 km linear route winds through birch, hazel, fir, oak, and pine trees, offering stunning views of the Pyrenees and a rich habitat for mushroom growth.
Starting in the town of Alp, the trail climbs gently through forested slopes toward the summit of Collada de Toses, passing tributaries and shaded glades — ideal conditions for spotting mushrooms. Whether you're a seasoned boletaire or a curious beginner, this route offers both scenic beauty and a chance to connect with Catalonia’s deep-rooted mushroom culture.
Mushroom Hunting in Catalan Culture
In rural Catalonia, mushroom hunting is more than a pastime — it’s a seasonal ritual deeply woven into autumn and winter cuisine. Many towns host mushroom markets, and during the cooler months, edible varieties appear in food stalls across Barcelona. Each autumn, Catalans head north into the forests in search of elusive species that grow only in this region.
Edible mushrooms at Sants Food Market
There’s a curious Catalan expression: Estar tocat del bolet — literally, “to be touched by the mushroom” — meaning someone is acting irrationally or hallucinating. The phrase originates from the Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria), a striking red mushroom with white spots known for its psychoactive properties.
For deeper insight into this tradition, the 3CAT television series Caçadors de Bolets (“Mushroom Hunters”) explores the world of Catalan fungi, foraging techniques, and cultural lore. You can watch the full series here.
When to Pick Mushrooms in Catalonia
The mushroom picking season in Catalonia typically begins in October, though exact timing depends on soil type, humidity, temperature, and recent rainfall. If summer rains have been generous, some varieties may appear as early as late September.
November is widely considered the peak month for foraging, with forests at their most productive. As winter approaches and frost begins to settle, mushroom growth slows — and when you spot a Fredolic (“cold mushroom”), it’s a local sign that the season is coming to an end.
Where to Find Mushrooms in Catalonia
To become a skilled caçador de bolets (mushroom hunter) or boletaire (mushroom picker), you need to know where to look. The best mushroom habitats in Catalonia are typically damp, mountainous forests with rich biodiversity and minimal foot traffic. Some of the most renowned areas include:
- Montseny Natural Park
- Forests of the Berguedà region
- Parts of the Collsacabra mountains in Osona, especially around Rupit
When scouting for mushrooms, look for the following forest types:
- Oak
- Chestnut
- Mixed oak and pine
- Holm oak
- Riverside or gallery forests
The Urtx-Alp to La Molina route runs parallel to the Alp River, with numerous tributaries feeding into it. The surrounding forest includes many of the tree types listed above, making it an ideal environment for mushroom growth — especially after rainfall.
Mushroom Hunting Safety
Catalonia is home to many toxic mushroom species, so the golden rule is: if in doubt, throw it out. Even experienced foragers can make mistakes, and some poisonous varieties closely resemble edible ones.
- Amanita phalloides — also known as the “death cap” — is responsible for the majority of mushroom poisonings in Europe.
- Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria) — iconic red with white spots, hallucinogenic and toxic.
- Pantherine — similar to Fly agaric, but more toxic.
- Cortinarius — contains slow-acting toxins that can damage kidneys.
- Omphalotus olearius — resembles chanterelles but is poisonous.
- Tricholoma pardinum — causes severe gastrointestinal distress.
- Clitocybe — includes several toxic species with muscarine compounds.
- Never pick mushrooms growing directly on tree trunks — they are often inedible or toxic and rarely used in cooking.
Note: I’m not a mushroom expert. When I photographed fungi along this route, I focused on the most visually striking specimens — many of which are toxic. I didn’t pick any mushrooms, as I lacked the knowledge to safely identify edible varieties.
Mushroom Harvesting Resources
To harvest mushrooms responsibly, use a sharp knife to cut the stem cleanly at ground level. Avoid pulling or uprooting the entire fungus, as this can damage the mycelium and prevent regrowth. Once picked, place the mushroom in a wicker or mesh basket with the hymenium (underside of the cap) facing downward — this allows spores to disperse through the basket holes as you walk, helping future growth.
Traditional Catalan Mushroom Recipes
- Bolets con ajo y perejil (All Ajillo): Mushrooms sautéed with garlic and parsley — typically served as a starter.
- Croquetas de setas/bolets: Crispy mushroom croquettes — a popular starter in tapas bars.
- Pintxos de bolets: Grilled mushroom skewers — often served as a starter or bar snack.
- Sautéed rovellons: Grilled saffron milk caps (red pine mushrooms) — a seasonal favourite starter.
- Sopa de bolets: Hearty mushroom soup — warming and typically served as a starter.
- Garró de porc al forn amb parmentier de bolets: Oven-roasted pork shank with mushroom purée — a rich main course.
- Metxetes de porc amb bolets: Pork stew with mushrooms — a rustic and comforting main dish.
- Mandonguilles de carn amb bolets: Beef and mushroom meatballs — a classic Catalan main.
- Mongetes amb bolets: White bean and mushroom stew — hearty and often served as a main.
- Fricandó: Slow-cooked beef stew with mushrooms and Catalan picada (nut-herb-garlic purée) — a traditional main dish.
- Bolets i ceba amb botifarra: Grilled Catalan sausage with mushrooms and caramelised onions — a flavourful main course.
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Visiting Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom hunting hike
At the end of the Urtx-Alp station platform, a footpath crosses the single-track railway and descends via an underpass — a safer and more scenic alternative to the winding road. Follow Avinguda Girona into the village of Alp, then take the first left onto Carrer Mossèn Gabanyach, followed by another left onto Avinguda de la Molina. This road gradually transitions into a gravel country lane leading out of the village.
If you’ve taken an early train, there’s time to detour into the centre of Alp for a coffee or breakfast at one of the local bars before beginning your hike.
As you leave the village, you’ll reach a fork in the gravel road. Take the right-hand path to continue toward La Molina. However, just 50 metres along the left fork, you’ll spot the Torre de Riu — a former farmhouse transformed into a neo-medieval castle in the 16th century. It’s worth a quick look before rejoining the main trail.
From here, the route enters the forest. Follow the Wikiloc track as a general guide, but be prepared to wander off-path to search for mushrooms — the best finds are often tucked away in shaded glades and under dense foliage. The forest is crisscrossed with small trails, so take your time and explore.
The full route is approximately 11 km and takes around 4 hours to complete at a relaxed pace, leaving ample time for foraging. Be sure to manage your time so you arrive at La Molina in time for the last train of the day.
Hiking in the Bosc del Carboner Mort with a Dog
This route is generally dog-friendly and should pose no difficulty for most pets. The terrain is gentle, and the forest offers plenty of shade and natural water sources. However, be aware that during autumn, the forest floor may contain toxic mushrooms. In spring and summer, you might also encounter Pine Processionary Caterpillars, which are dangerous to dogs if touched or ingested.
Keep your dog on a lead when foraging off-path, and consider bringing water, a collapsible bowl, and paw protection if the ground is wet or cold.
Restaurants in La Molina Near the Renfe Station
After your hike, you’ll find several restaurants near La Molina station that often serve seasonal mushroom dishes in autumn:
- Lo Vintage Restaurant / Llesquería — Plaça Verge de les Neus, 17537 La Molina, Girona
- Bar Granja La Molina — Barri Plan Estació, 2, 17537 La Molina, Girona
- Restaurant El Brezo — Carrer de l'Estació, 17537 La Molina, Girona
What to take for Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom hunting hike
The most important item for mushroom foraging is a wicker or mesh basket, which allows spores to fall through as you walk — helping future mushroom growth. You can find these in most home goods or gardening stores. In Spanish, ask for a cesta de mimbre para setas.
Other useful items include:
- A small sharp knife for cleanly cutting mushrooms at the base
- Sturdy waterproof boots — the forest floor can be damp and uneven
- Weather-appropriate clothing — dress in layers and bring a rainproof outer shell
- Gloves — helpful for handling unknown species or cold mornings
- Field guide or identification app — to help distinguish edible from toxic varieties
- Water and snacks — especially if you plan to explore off-path for several hours
Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom hunting hike Summary of Prices
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Adult
€ 23.00
€ 0.00
Child
€ 23.00
€ 0.00
Notes
Hike is free, return train costs 23.00 Euros
Getting to the Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom Route
Address: Bosc del Carboner Mort, Alp, 17538
Take the Renfe Rodalies R3 line, which runs from Barcelona to the Pyrenees, stopping at both Urtx-Alp and La Molina. Start your hike from Urtx-Alp and return from La Molina — both stations are on the same line, making this a convenient linear route.
The R3 line is the only train route from Barcelona that reaches the foot of the Pyrenees, making it ideal for hiking and mushroom foraging. Many of the best train-accessible trails in Catalonia begin and end at stations along this line, offering scenic views and easy access to mountain villages.
Documents for Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom hunting hike
Wikiloc Trail for Urtx-Alp to La Molina Mushroom hunting hike
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Mountain Forecast weather for La Molina
