La Cellera De Ter offers several distinct starting points for an exploration: archaeology, architecture, technical history and nature. Its archaeological sites lead to different prehistoric periods; the parish church of Santa Maria de Sales combines a Romanesque classification with Gothic and Baroque elements. There is also a hydroelectric plant of heritage significance, a predominantly wooded landscape and several routes, each with its own character. When planning your trip, this variety can help you choose a focus: cultural history, nature or a specific walking or cycling route.
Prehistory at two archaeological sites
The Coves del Pasteral contain burials from the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods, dated to between 4500 and 2500 BC. The archaeological site is considered significant for Catalonia’s later prehistory because burials from this period are rare in the western Mediterranean. Another prehistoric context is the Jaciment de la Font del Bassi: this site dates from the Middle Paleolithic and includes worked stone material, including a hand axe. The two sites therefore offer a contrast between Neolithic and Chalcolithic burials and a Middle Paleolithic find featuring worked stones.
Church architecture and technical monuments
The Romanesque parish church of Santa Maria de Sales also features Gothic and Baroque elements. Specific architectural features include a porch with stone columns and a wooden roof. The Central hidroelèctrica de can Ribes adds a dimension of engineering history to this architectural theme: the plant is of heritage significance and is included in the Inventory of the Architectural Heritage of Catalonia. The ensemble of hydraulic structures associated with it is considered a remarkable example of 20th-century engineering. This brings different aspects of architectural history into focus: religious architecture with several stylistic elements and a technical ensemble whose significance lies in hydraulic engineering.
Woodland and waterside landscapes
The vegetation of la Cellera de Ter is predominantly woodland. It includes cork oaks, strawberry trees, and oak and chestnut forests. The Ter and the streams are home to barbel, nase, carp and eels, as well as frogs, water snakes, minks and turtles. For choosing nature-related activities, this means distinguishing between the predominantly wooded vegetation and the animal species found in the waterways.
Walking route, circular trail and Via Verda
There are numerous springs in the municipality; some are accessible, and the Ruta de les fonts can be enjoyed as a walking route. The Ruta de les pedreres de la Cellera de Ter has some further details: the circular trail is just over 9 km long and passes several quarries in the area. It starts and ends at a green space beside the old road from la Cellera to El Pasteral. White and green markers indicate the route. As route conditions and signage may change, it is best to check these details locally before setting out. Another option is the Via Verda del Carrilet Girona–Olot, which passes through la Cellera de Ter and is suitable for pedestrians and cyclists. The routes offer different experiences: springs, quarries or a trail suitable for walking or cycling.
Discover more destinations: Sant Jaume De Llierca, Sant Joan Les Fonts, UrĂşs, Sant Gregori, Llanca, Vilabertran, Viladamat, RabĂłs.
For the main travel overview: Girona.
