More than 100 springs rise within the municipality of Sant Hilari Sacalm, while forests also define its setting in the heart of the Guilleries. The town is known as “La vila de les 100 fonts”—the town of 100 springs. Nature and cycling sit alongside cultural and historical themes here. When planning, consider whether you would prefer to focus your trip on scenery and outdoor activities or on crafts, events and history.
Springs, Forests and Cycling Routes
The springs are a defining feature of the town, as is its forested setting. Two mountain bike circuits show how you can experience both by bike. The Ruta del Soler is 19.5 kilometres long, takes around one hour and 15 minutes, and has 220 metres of elevation gain. It passes through the dense forests of the Les Guilleries natural landscape and through woodland characteristic of the region.
At 22.8 kilometres, around one hour and 45 minutes, and 280 metres of elevation gain, the Ruta de les Ermites is longer; it is rated as having a certain degree of difficulty. Two hermitages lie along the route, which passes through the varied forests and landscapes of the Guilleries. The details make it possible to compare the routes: alongside the time and distance, you can also consider the elevation gain, the stated level of difficulty and the landmarks along the way. This can help you choose based on the time you have available and the things that interest you along the route.
Performances, Crafts and Nature
The Via Crucis Vivent begins in Plaça de l’Església and proceeds through 14 scenes to Turó de la Vaga, also known as Turó de la Crucifixió. The performance combines a staged procession with a moving reenactment of the Passion. Processional participants include armed figures and religious characters. The route and sequence of scenes give the event a spatial structure.
Another cultural event is L’Embruix. Inspired by legends about witches and warlocks from the forests of the Guilleries, it includes nighttime performances, among them a witches’ sabbath. If you would like to plan your trip around an event like this, check the dates in advance.
At the Centre Artesà de la Torneria, an exhibition traces the development of woodturning; demonstrations are also held. The Museu Guilleries presents the region’s diverse flora and fauna through different ecosystems. These offer contrasting ways to explore the area: traditional craftsmanship on the one hand and the nature of the Guilleries on the other.
Historical Traces in the Town and Surrounding Area
The tourist office is located in Can Rovira. The three-storey manor house dates from the 15th century and was built for the Gurb family. Its original purpose and its present-day role as the tourist office belong to different chapters in its history.
The former Balneari de la Font Picant is part of the town’s spa heritage. The building is four kilometres from Sant Hilari Sacalm, on the road towards Osor. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was one of Spain’s most famous spas thanks to its mineral medicinal springs. This historical connection adds another dimension to the way the landscape is experienced today.
Discover more destinations: Ullastret, Campllong, El Prat de Llobregat, Olot, Darnius, Lladó, Salionç, Osor.
For the broader travel overview: Girona.
