Top 20 Natural Monuments around Sant Julià De Vilatorta
Best natural monuments around Sant Julià De Vilatorta are situated in a natural environment between the Plana de Vic and the Guilleries mountains. This area offers diverse landscapes, from dense forests to agricultural fields, providing numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by significant natural beauty and historical sites integrated into the landscape. It serves as an excellent base for exploring varied territories.
Best natural monuments around Sant Julià De Vilatorta
- The most popular natural monument is Matagalls (1697 m), a summit that is an iconic hiking mountain in Catalonia. Its summit offers panoramic views and is a rewarding destination for trekkers.
- Another must-see spot is Can Boix Castle, a castle and historical site located on large rocks at an altitude of 803 meters. Below the castle is a large grotto, and it provides views of the Plain of Vic and the Pyrenees.
- Visitors also love Sant Feliuet de Savassona Hermitage, a religious building and historical site. It is situated on a hill in front of the old Savassona Castle, featuring Romanesque architecture and medieval remains including anthropomorphic graves.
- Sant Julià De Vilatorta is known for its summits, historical sites, and religious buildings. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including ancient rock engravings and unique geological features.
- The natural monuments around Sant Julià De Vilatorta are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 210 upvotes and 160 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: August 25, 2026
Matagalls (1697 m)
Highlight • Summit
Its summit can be reached by several routes, all with their own charm. The easy access of del Coll Formic means that there is currently a considerable flood of visitors of all kinds who degrade the environment in a worrying way.
It was the starting point of the legendary resistance march "Matagalls - Montserrat" created in 1972 by the Gràcia Hiking Center but, due to the environmental impact around this peak, since 1998 the start has been made at Coll Formic to move from Brull to 2015.
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Sant Feliuet de Savassona Hermitage
Highlight • Religious Site
The church was erected on the occasion of the repopulation in a place where there are signs of a very old population. This place begins to take on a more pronounced personality since it emerges from the Castle of Sant Llorenç that covered a wide territory. There is little historical news that refers to the chapel. The oldest is from 1037, when a certain Guifred donates some land in the parish of Sant Pere de Savassona and several instruments to the house of Sant Felio, later it was called Sant Felio de Roca according to a document from the year 1302 in which Pere Torrent, rector of Savassona, allocates some money to the worship of the chapel.
So from the pre-Romanesque building (apse), in the 11th century the nave had to be redone in order to make it more solid. In the 16th century, it was reformed and the western portal was built, and the southern one was temporarily cancelled.
It was later restored by the Vic Excursionist Centre, which restored it to its original appearance.
Anthropomorphic graves:
The remains found in Savassona testify to the existence of very remote habitats in this area, often taking advantage of the natural dens offered by the landscape.
These tombs and the apse of the pre-Romanesque church demonstrate the existence of a settlement prior to the 10th century. From this century the place of Savassona acquires a more pronounced personality, as it emerges from the jurisdiction of Sant Llorenç del Munt and becomes part of the heritage of the Viscounts of Osona. The settlement of the Lloc de Sant Felio, which in the 13th century was renamed Sant Felio de la Roca, continued, since in the 11th century the nave of the church was rebuilt to make it more solid and in the In the 16th century, it was reformed by adding a door to the west. Reform that shows us the existence of a nucleus of inhabitants, important given that the church of Sant Pere de Tavernolers is very close by and that if it were like that, it could have replaced it.
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Salt del Molí Bernat
Highlight • Waterfall
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Pedra de les Bruixes Rock Engravings
Highlight • Historical Site
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Petroglyphs of the Pedra de l'Home (Pla de Savassona)
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
We were here in April 2026. Unfortunately, the hiking trail is not in good condition. The descent to the waterfall is quite steep but passable. The paths to the stairs of the Riscos de la Perereda are all overgrown, and only a shortened path past an old mill back to the parking lot is passable.
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Hape Kerkeling, a well-known entertainer in the German-speaking world, wrote down some thoughts about a mystical experience (encounter with God) while traveling through Spain, which I would also like to offer to the viewer of this small sacred monument on the Matagalls: "To encounter God, one must first extend an invitation to him, for he will not come uninvited. It is also a form of good manners. We have free choice. He builds an individual relationship with each person. Only someone who truly loves is capable of this." (Hape Kerkeling in "Ich bin dann mal weg")
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Here you can see some impressive sunsets, with specially placed benches, to enjoy some views, and incredible sunsets 🤩
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On this rock we can see the figure of a man engraved, although it is a little difficult to see because of the moss that covers it.
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It is part of the three highest in Montseny, with 1697 meters. altitude In a chain with... Turó de l'home, les Agudes and Matagalls, but its great plateau and its views make it They make it Special...!!🤩💚
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Itinerary through the Plan de Savassona that includes the Romanesque hermitage of Sant Feliu as well as medieval remains such as anthropomorphic tombs, medieval stairs, several engraved stones used for sacrifices and magical acts: The Dau, Stone of Sacrifices, Stone of the Witches, Stone of the 'Man. https://parcs.diba.cat/documents/75109/15894265/p02d067.pdf/9ed9c436-da7a-4c78-b59a-bab3ad98e942
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Ascent to one of the emblematic peaks of Montseny
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The Pla de Savassona, in the heart of the natural area, houses an interesting archaeological site that includes various rocks with engravings and Neolithic, Iron Age, Iberian and medieval remains. The one known as the stone of Man, for example, presents an anthropomorphic petroglyph, while the stone of the Witches presents engravings in the shape of a horseshoe and a cross. Under the Sacrifice stone, one of the largest in the site, two tombs have been found.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique historical natural monuments can I explore in the area?
The region is rich in historical natural monuments. You can visit the Pedra de les Bruixes Rock Engravings, a large natural stone featuring over 50 crosses, 9 horseshoes, and other medieval engravings. Another fascinating site is the Petroglyphs of the Pedra de l'Home (Pla de Savassona), which includes an anthropomorphic petroglyph and other Neolithic, Iron Age, Iberian, and medieval remains.
Are there any natural monuments with historical buildings or ruins?
Yes, the area features several natural monuments integrated with historical structures. The Can Boix Castle, also known as Taradell Castle, is located on large rocks at an altitude of 803 meters, with a large grotto below it. You can also explore the Sant Feliuet de Savassona Hermitage, a Romanesque religious building situated on a hill with medieval remains, including anthropomorphic graves.
What are the best places for panoramic views of the landscape?
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider hiking up Matagalls (1697 m), an iconic summit in Catalonia known for its extensive vistas. Additionally, both Can Boix Castle and Sant Feliuet de Savassona Hermitage offer excellent viewpoints, with the castle providing views of the Plain of Vic and the Pyrenees, and the hermitage being a great spot for sunsets.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments?
The region offers a wide array of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking and cycling within the Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona. For specific cycling routes, explore the Cycling around Sant Julià De Vilatorta guide, or for more challenging rides, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Sant Julià De Vilatorta guide. There are also options for Gravel biking around Sant Julià De Vilatorta.
Are there any natural areas suitable for leisurely strolls or picnics?
Yes, the Parc de les Set Fonts (Park of the Seven Fountains) is a beloved local spot perfect for relaxation. It's a peaceful, landscaped area with seven plentiful spouts, ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics. It also serves as a starting point for various excursions, including a 'Route of the Mills' loop.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Sant Julià de Vilatorta can be enjoyed throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Autumn is especially beautiful with changing foliage, and some viewpoints, like Sant Feliuet de Savassona Hermitage, are noted for impressive sunsets, which can be enjoyed in various seasons.
Are there any unique water-related natural attractions?
Absolutely. The Sau Reservoir (Pantà de Sau) is a unique attraction where the remains of the submerged village of San Román de Sau, particularly its bell tower, become visible when water levels are low. This offers a poignant and historically significant sight. Additionally, the Riera de Sant Julià (Sant Julià stream) and Noguera springs contribute to the lush natural environment and provide pleasant pathways for walks.
What kind of terrain can I expect on trails near these natural monuments?
The terrain varies significantly, reflecting the transition zone between the agricultural Plana de Vic and the rugged Guilleries mountains. You'll find dense forests of oak, holm oak, and pine, alongside agricultural fields. Trails can range from easy paths suitable for leisurely walks, such as those around Parc de les Set Fonts, to challenging hikes like those leading to the summit of Matagalls.
Are there family-friendly options among the natural monuments?
While specific 'family-friendly' categories are not listed for all highlights, areas like the Parc de les Set Fonts are excellent for families due to their peaceful, landscaped environment and easy access for strolls. Exploring the rock engravings at Pedra de les Bruixes or Pedra de l'Home can also be an engaging activity for families interested in history and nature, though some paths might be intermediate difficulty.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open agricultural fields, and the numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. The historical significance of sites like the rock engravings and the unique phenomenon of the Sau Reservoir are also highly valued. Many enjoy the panoramic views from summits and historical sites, with some spots like Sant Feliuet de Savassona Hermitage being noted for incredible sunsets.
Can I find any caves or grottoes in the natural monuments area?
Yes, Can Boix Castle is notably situated above a large grotto, making it a distinctive feature of the site. This combination of historical architecture and natural cave formations adds an interesting dimension to your visit.
Are there any long-distance trails or extensive networks for exploring the natural monuments?
The municipality of Sant Julià de Vilatorta is known for its extensive network of trails, with about 15 itineraries suitable for hiking or mountain biking. These trails allow for comprehensive exploration of the natural environment, including routes like the Camí de la Carena, which connects Bellpuig Castle to Puig-l'agulla, offering varied distances and experiences.
Most popular routes around Sant Julià De Vilatorta
Most popular attractions around Sant Julià De Vilatorta
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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Sant Julià De Vilatorta:
