Exploring the Iron Trails of Garraf: A Saturday Adventure
Discovering Garraf’s Hidden Stories
Today, I joined a great hike through the Garraf region, a day filled with stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and the company of about 40 fellow adventurers. It’s not every weekend that you get to explore caves where time is painted in shades of black, red, and green.
We kicked off the day at 10:00 AM, meeting at the Gavà train station. The large group was buzzing with energy as everyone introduced themselves over a quick coffee. It was a mix of seasoned hikers, casual walkers, and curious first-timers. With such a variety of people, I knew this was going to be as much about the connections as the trail itself.
The hike took us into the heart of Garraf, where caves rich in iron told stories of a world long past. Our guide, a passionate scientist and storyteller, helped us interpret the colourful layers of history etched into the rocks. The black and red shades transported us back millions of years to ancient geological eras, while the green hues of variscite connected us to more recent human history. Standing there, surrounded by this vibrant tapestry, I couldn’t help but marvel at how nature holds the keys to stories we often overlook.
Despite the size of our group, the hike felt intimate as people naturally broke into smaller clusters, chatting and sharing stories along the way. The terrain was gentle, with about 360 meters of elevation gain—enough to make it feel like a proper workout but manageable for all skill levels.
Midway through the hike, we stopped for a picnic. Picture 40 people spread out across a scenic viewpoint, enjoying sandwiches, snacks, and a few shared treats. It was a beautiful moment of community, with laughter echoing through the hills and the Mediterranean sun breaking through the clouds just in time to warm us. After covering 12 kilometres in about five hours, we made our way back to Gavà station by 4:00 PM. Some of us lingered a bit longer, grabbing a drink and reflecting on the day.
For just €10, the hike included a guide who turned rocks into time machines. More than that, it offered the rare chance to connect with a large, diverse group of people while exploring one of the most fascinating parts of the Garraf region.
This experience reminded me why I love hiking: it’s not just about the destination but the journey, the stories you uncover, and the people you meet along the way. If you’re looking for an accessible day trip near Barcelona, this hike is a must. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a willingness to strike up a conversation—you never know who you might meet.