Viladrau lies in the transition zone between Montseny and Guilleries. Dense forests and abundant water define the area. Anyone planning a stay here can focus on nature, culture, or both: options include marked circular trails, a summit ascent, historic buildings, legends and chestnut traditions. Alongside destinations in Viladrau, there are also places in the surrounding area; take the time required and local trail conditions into account when planning.
Trails among springs, chestnut trees and summits
Viladrau has environmental, literary and historical circular trails. One specific nature route is the marked Sender del castanyer de les 9 branques (SL-C81). It starts at Font del Sot de Can Rosell, a 15-minute walk from Plaça Major. The circular route passes well-known springs, runs through cool forests and continues to viewpoints over the northern side of Matagalls. Fields and old farmhouses are also part of the trail, which leads to the Castanyer de les 9 Branques. This chestnut tree is considered one of the Montseny’s most emblematic trees.
The CamĂ de Matagalls (SL-C82) follows a different course: a classic ascent up the northern side through wooded areas of Matagalls to the summit, with sweeping views across Montseny. The marked route starts at Coll de Borderiol. Allow 4.5 hours for the round trip from there. The two destinations offer different experiences: a circular walk to the chestnut tree or an ascent to the summit. Check local trail conditions before setting out on either hike.
Legends and architectural history
Espai Montseny offers an immersive experience about legends. It explores a magical forest, water fairies and the bandit Serrallonga. The Montseny Park Administration information point is also located in Espai Montseny and provides information about the park and Viladrau. If you rely on this service, check what is currently available before your visit.
The town’s history can also be read in its buildings. Església de Sant Martà has been documented as a parish church since 898 and was consecrated in 1082. Two Romanesque round arches date from the 12th century, while the Baroque façade dates from the 18th century. The La Pietat chapel is integrated into the town center and was documented in 1603. La Sala was converted into a domus in the 14th century and classified as a BCIN in 1949. Joan Sala i Ferrer, known as Serrallonga, was born there in 1594.
Other buildings add to this picture: Espinzella is a fortified manor house that was converted into a domus in the 12th century. The Can Torra manor house was designed by Modernisme architect Puig i Cadafalch. The local architecture thus offers a chance to see different types of buildings and historical periods without grouping them into a single architectural narrative.
Places in the surrounding area
In the area around Viladrau, the Sant Segimon sanctuary has been documented since 1290; the approach from Viladrau is long. The Erola hermitage has been documented since 1571. It is situated in a stand of centuries-old chestnut trees, halfway to the sanctuary. Pont de la Noguerola is a medieval bridge with a low wheel guard for carriages. Until the new road was built around 1910, it formed part of the old royal road from Viladrau to Vic and Barcelona.
The landscape and water also shape the surrounding area: around Pont de FĂ bregues on the Riera Major, there are sunny rocky pools and small waterfalls that offer a place to cool off in summer. These destinations provide a distinct nature-focused option alongside cultural visits and hiking trails.
Chestnut fair and traditions
Since 1995, the Fira de la Castanya de Viladrau has brought culture and nature together with the revival of chestnuts from Viladrau and Montseny. Depending on the edition, the program includes tastings, guided chestnut walks, roasted chestnuts, workshops, exhibitions, music and cultural activities. Dates vary from year to year; if you are planning to visit specifically for the fair, check the dates for that year’s edition.
Other traditions take place on set dates: the Aplec de l’Erola is held on the last Sunday in May and includes a mass, a communal meal and Sardana dancing. The Aplec de Matagalls takes place on the second Sunday in July. Its usual main events include a mass at the summit, the singing of Cant dels adéus, the inauguration of a spring and Sardana dancing in Viladrau’s main square.
Plan your journey
The Bus Parc includes route 436 between Vic and Viladrau. As schedules may vary, check the times for your travel date.
Discover more destinations: Cubelles, San Celoni, La Floresta, Guardiola De BerguedĂ , Arenys De Munt, Canet De Mar, Ă’dena, Montclar.
Go to the main travel overview: Barcelona.
