The best hikes from bus stations around Parc de la Serralada Litoral

For centuries it was the Sunday getaway of the surrounding villages, and it is said that, on foggy days, the bell tower served as a guide to orientate oneself among the paths of the mountain range. Old meetings and gatherings were held on the esplanade, and you can still see the space where people sat to have breakfast after the climb. The access is direct and sustained, and the arrival offers a clear view of the sea and mountains that explains why Sant Mateu has always been a point of passage and a mandatory stop.

In addition to the spout and the pond, it preserves the old paved landing where, according to the long-time residents, people who went up to the sanctuary stopped to have a drink and “gain strength”. For decades it was a meeting point for hikers and farmers, and it was said that if the spring flowed strongly, a good year of rain would come. The access is short and easy, and the clearing in the surrounding forest still maintains the cool and shady atmosphere of the routes of the past.

The Creu de Montcabrer crowns one of the most emblematic points of the Serralada Litoral. The current cross, placed in 1982 and blessed in 1983, is the last in a long tradition dating back to 1565. Over the centuries, it has been replaced several times due to lightning, vandalism, and even bullet impacts during the Civil War. In addition to its unique history, this place is wonderful for the spectacular views it offers: from Montseny to Barcelona, passing through the Castell de Burriac and reaching Blanes on clear days. It's ideal for stopping, breathing, and contemplating the landscape. 🚴 WARNING: Do not attempt to ride down the path that leads to the caves located just below the cross. It is not suitable for cycling and can be dangerous. It is recommended to return along the same path you came in.

A summit with excellent views of the Maresme, crowned by a geodesic vertex. It's an ideal place to take a break, admire the landscape, or take some great photos. The final access is narrow and rocky: the last 10 meters require you to dismount and hike up. Still, the panoramic views are worth the effort.

About 300 meters before reaching the hermitage along the track from Òrrius, on the left, dry stone walls are preserved, the remains of a shelter used by Republican militiamen during the Civil War. It's not signposted, but it's visible if you get off your bike and explore a bit. The surroundings are very peaceful and steeped in history: the hermitage was also used as a temporary shelter.

Don't miss the crosses carved into the rock. A widely accepted theory is that this is an ancient passageway, possibly used as a necropolis or ritual area. The crosses could represent burials, pilgrimages, or religious ceremonies. Perhaps they were carved in memory of the dead or those who passed through.

This cave, inhabited in prehistoric times, contains remains that demonstrate its use in the Neolithic or Bronze Age, such as stone tools, pottery fragments, and evidence of fire. Its strategic location, hidden but with good visibility of the surroundings, made it ideal as a refuge or stopover. Today, for cyclists like us, it's an excellent shelter in case of rain or to enjoy breakfast in the shade, thanks to its peaceful and protected location.

A very interesting megalithic area, both for its history and for the countless tracks, trails, and trials, each more fun than the last.