Attractions and Places To See around Bigues i Riells del Fai - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Bigues i Riells del Fai, a municipality in the Vallès Oriental region of Barcelona, offer a diverse range of experiences. The area is characterized by significant natural features, including the Cingles de Bertí cliffs and the Tenes River valley, alongside historical landmarks and cultural sites. It provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration of Catalonia's heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Bigues i Riells del Fai
- The most popular attractions is Puig de la Creu Summit and the Santa Maria Chapel, a summit and historical site. This 668-meter mountain provides panoramic views of the Vallès and Montseny, featuring a 12th-century Romanesque chapel.
- Another must-see spot is Santa Maria de Gallecs Church, a religious building and historical site. This 12th-century Romanesque temple preserves pre-Romanesque vestiges and is situated in a notable natural area.
- Visitors also love Puiggraciós Optical Telegraph Tower, an 1854 man-made monument and viewpoint. Declared a cultural asset of national interest, it offers extensive panoramic views of the region.
- Bigues i Riells del Fai is known for its natural landscapes, including dramatic cliffs and river valleys, as well as historical structures like castles, churches, and ancient towers. The region offers a variety of attractions for those interested in outdoor exploration and cultural discovery.
- The attractions around Bigues i Riells del Fai are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and 70 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Puig de la Creu Summit and the Santa Maria Chapel
Highlight • Summit
It offers a complete perspective of the region, with views of the San Lorenzo massif and also of Montserrat, and there is a group of buildings, and among them the hermitage of Santa María del Monte de la Cruz. The ensemble, with an irregular shape similar to a pentagon, develops around a central courtyard.
The 12th century Romanesque chapel is the oldest building in the whole complex. It is a rural chapel without ornamentation that is dedicated to Santa María (de la Cruz), the Virgin of Sorrows.
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Puiggraciós Optical Telegraph Tower
Highlight • Monument
It is worth visiting this place, both hiking and mountain biking MTB, for the enormous satisfaction that comes from reaching this high point and being able to contemplate the exquisite panoramic views of the region.
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Santa Maria de Gallecs Church
Highlight • Religious Site
During the restoration works, Paleo-Christian remains from the 5th or 6th century were found. Located in a suggestive natural area, in its surroundings you can find some farmhouses of architectural interest.
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Torre Marimon
Highlight • Historical Site
The farm is currently owned by the Barcelona Provincial Council, it has an area of 115 ha, of which 60 are forest, 50 are crops and the rest are occupied by buildings and roads. It is located in the municipality of Caldes de Montbui and is intended for the practices of Higher Studies in Agriculture, being managed by the IRTA (Institute for Agrifood Research and Technology)
Torre Marimón's reference in agricultural research continues in force in the Valleys regions, its immediate objective being to promote these activities, compatible with the public use of the farm as a place of enjoyment and meeting of visitors from neighboring municipalities.
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Sentmenat Castle
Highlight • Castle
The castle is in a strategic place. The façade, oriented to the west, is on the margin of the ravine that forms the Sentmenat stream. Built on a flat ridge of the ridge, 1,300 m northwest of the parish church of the village of Sentmenat.
It is a large Gothic building rebuilt on older foundations. In the fortress, it is reached through a stone bridge that protrudes from the castle and that seems to replace the old drawbridge. The grandeur of its fortress is manifested with walls three meters thick. The castle is made up of two rectangular bodies, arranged octagonally, with the ends joined by another body, the plan of which describes an arc of a quarter circle, more or less regular. These three bodies surround a patio in the shape of a trapezoid.
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Built during the Napoleonic era, this tower was part of the optical telegraph network that connected Barcelona with Vic using light signals and mirrors. Interestingly, according to local chroniclers, it never fully functioned: the wind and fog from Puiggraciós made it impossible to see the next station. Even so, it remains a symbol of a time when messages traveled at the speed of the sun, long before the telephone and fiber optic cable.
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A place with excellent views of the entire southern part of Barcelona, including the Tibidabo antenna and the Ciudad Meridiana and Torre Baró neighborhoods.
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Romanesque hermitage, with pre-Romanesque origins, located in the heart of one of the most important natural areas in the region. In addition, around the hermitage, you will find farmhouses of architectural interest from the Gallecs area.
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Arriving at the Cim del Puiggraciòs you will find this telegraph tower, which can be reached by mountain bike or gravel, by road you can only reach the Sanctuary. You can enjoy exceptional views of the Congost River Valley and Montseny, with the Tagamanent right in front. The ascent will not leave you indifferent.
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At the top of Puiggraciós, 807 meters high, there is an old optical telegraph tower in excellent condition, built in 1854 and currently used by forest rangers. It is declared as a Cultural Property of National Interest.
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The mountain bike tour to Puig de la Creu near Castellar del Vallès offers a varied combination of nature, culture, and impressive views. The route leads over forest and gravel tracks through the region's hilly landscape up to the 668-meter-high summit. Once at the top, there are expansive panoramic views over the Vallès, the striking San Llorenç del Munt massif with La Mola, and the Montseny mountains. A special highlight of the tour is the small 12th-century Romanesque chapel of Santa Maria del Puig de la Creu, located just below the summit. Its simple natural stone architecture reflects the spiritual significance of this place and invites you to take a short rest. The summit plateau itself is marked with a metal cross, and next to it is a simple refuge that can provide shelter in case of bad weather. The last few meters to the summit are marked by cairns, as the trails are not always clearly signposted. GPS assistance or a good map is recommended, especially if you want to extend the tour as a circular route via Sentmenat or Sant Llorenç Savall. Overall, Puig de la Creu is a worthwhile destination for anyone seeking a harmonious blend of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery.
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Mandatory stop. At the top of Puiggraciós, 807 meters high, there is an old optical telegraph tower in optimal condition, built in 1854 and currently used by forest guards. It is declared a Cultural Asset of Interest. National.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfxckxyuQHE
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must place in the area
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural viewpoints offer the best panoramic views of the region?
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting Puig de la Creu Summit. This 668-meter mountain provides extensive vistas of the Vallès Occidental, Collserola, Montseny, and even Montserrat. Another excellent spot is the Puiggraciós Optical Telegraph Tower, which offers exquisite panoramic views of the surrounding area from its elevated position.
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in Bigues i Riells del Fai?
The region is rich in history. You can explore the unique Sant Miquel del Fai Monastery, which includes a troglodyte church built into the Cingles de Bertí cliffs. Other notable sites include the ancient Castell de Montbui, offering views of the Tenes valley, and the Santa Maria de Gallecs Church, a 12th-century Romanesque temple with pre-Romanesque vestiges. The Sentmenat Castle, a large Gothic building rebuilt on older foundations, is also a significant cultural asset nearby.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities suitable for all ages?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Santa Maria de Gallecs Church is located in a natural area that's pleasant for a family outing. Additionally, the Finca Torre Marimon, an agricultural estate, offers a place for enjoyment and meeting for visitors, with its expansive grounds and historical tower.
What kind of outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near these attractions?
Bigues i Riells del Fai is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, particularly around the Cingles de Bertí cliffs and the Tenes River valley. For specific routes, explore the Gravel biking around Bigues i Riells del Fai guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Bigues i Riells del Fai guide for detailed options.
Where can I find running trails in the area?
The region offers a variety of running trails for different fitness levels. You can explore routes like the 'Stone Tower loop from l'Ametlla del Vallès' or the 'Hermitage of Remei – Romanesque Bridge of Caldes loop from Caldes de Montbui'. For a comprehensive list of options, check out the Running Trails around Bigues i Riells del Fai guide.
What natural features define the landscape of Bigues i Riells del Fai?
The landscape is primarily defined by the dramatic Cingles de Bertí cliffs, which are part of the Catalan Prelitoral Range. The Tenes River and Rossinyol stream also play a significant role, creating impressive waterfalls, caves, and natural pools, especially within the Sant Miquel del Fai Natural Area. The Puig de la Creu mountain further adds to the diverse natural beauty.
Are there any unique historical architectural styles or features in the area?
Yes, the region showcases a blend of architectural styles. The Sant Miquel del Fai Monastery is notable for its troglodyte church, built directly into a grotto, and features both Romanesque and Gothic elements. Many local churches, such as the Santa Maria de Gallecs Church, retain significant Romanesque characteristics, some with pre-Romanesque vestiges.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Bigues i Riells del Fai?
Visitors frequently appreciate the harmonious blend of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery. The expansive panoramic views from summits like Puig de la Creu and the historical significance of sites like the Puiggraciós Optical Telegraph Tower are often highlighted. The opportunity to explore ancient structures amidst stunning natural backdrops is a major draw.
Can I find any hidden gems or lesser-known spots in the municipality?
While many sites are well-known, exploring the smaller parish churches like Sant Pere de Bigues or Sant Vicenç de Riells del Fai can offer a glimpse into local history away from the main crowds. The Medieval path of Sant Miquel, though part of a popular area, provides unique perspectives of the valley and its water features that can feel like a discovery.
What is the significance of the Cingles de Bertí cliffs?
The Cingles de Bertí cliffs are a prominent natural landmark, forming a geographical border and offering dramatic rocky landscapes. They are also an important habitat for birds of prey, including the Bonelli's eagle and peregrine falcon, making them significant for both their geological features and biodiversity.
Are there any specific recommendations for mountain biking routes?
Absolutely! The area is well-suited for mountain biking. Routes like 'Mirador del Puig del Castell loop from l'Ametlla del Vallès' or 'Gallecs Rural Area – Sentmenat Castle loop from Ctra. de Caldes a Mataró - Vallespir' offer varied terrain. For more options and details, consult the Gravel biking around Bigues i Riells del Fai guide.
Most popular routes around Bigues i Riells del Fai
Most popular attractions around Bigues i Riells del Fai
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