5 surprising outdoor visits in Penedès
Photo: Castellví de la Marca
In Penedès you will find things to do for all tastes: gastronomy, wine tours, water sports, culture, architecture… but one of its most important values is the landscape and all the activities we can do outdoors in these natural surroundings, which go from sea to mountain, passing through valleys of vineyards. Here are 5 surprising outdoor visits in Penedès.
In the Garraf Natural Park we can do up to 11 different itineraries. Some trails are easier and accessible, some have a higher level, and all of them are signposted. There are paths that will allow you to reach high points where you can enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the Penedès, and others lead you to the coastal lines, so you can see the Mediterranean in all its glory. In addition, the park organizes day trips with lunch included once in a while, where you will discover very interesting curiosities about this natural environment.
If you have always been interested in learning a little history (and prehistory), visit the Font de la Canya site in Avinyonet del Penedès. A location that was inhabited by a tribe of Iberians from the end of the 7th century BC to the 3rd century BC. Hundreds of charred and mineralized bones were found, which are part of the most important and oldest documented historical site in Catalonia.
This is where a clay figurine represeting the goddess of agriculture and fertility Demeter was found. Today, the image is the logo for the Denomination of Origin Penedès. In fact, this discovery is one of the 10 Penedès Secrets, that of La Sitja 169. Do you want to discover it?
Take a nice excursion to Les Dous, where the main features are the freshness of the water and Mediterranean forrest, leaving the valley of vineyards behind. The 35 water sources (dous), which give their name to the location, are the main image that comes to mind when talking about Les Dous, a hidden natural place that runs along the Pontons stream on the outskirts of Torrelles de Foix town. With prior reservation, you can make use of the barbecues or plan a family picnic.
Since you will be in the village, make sure to stroll through the old town to see the old public laundry tubs or go up to the sanctuary of the Virgin of Foix, patron saint of the Penedès are. Be prepared, that is a tough walk!
In the heart of Penedès we find the Olèrdola Monumental area, declared Site of Cultural Interest (BIC), thanks to its historical, monumental and patrimonial relevance. One can find so many traces of our ancient history: remains of the Bronze and Iron Ages, an Iberian village, a stone cistern, an impressive Roman fortification, part of a medieval city, a castle and medieval anthropomorphic tombs.
The monumental ensemble of Olèrdola Castle, open to the public since 1971, is today one of the headquarters of the Museum of Archeology of Catalonia (MAC).
We recommend to be prepared, because it requires a little hike to explore the complex, so pack water and warm clothes or a sun hat depending on the season. Throughout the year, there are several guided tours and theatrical tours inside the Natural Park and the Monumental Complex. Moreover, if you want go for a family walk, you can take the circular route to the Olèrdola Castle.
On top of a hill, 468 meters high, overseeing the impressive cliff above the Marmellar stream, are the remains of the old medieval castle in Castellví de la Marca. The tower of this small fortress has been recently restored and it has returned to its original state, gaining height and enabling an interior staircase to make it accessible to all. From there, you can see one of the best panoramic views. of the Penedès.
The climb to Castellot is an easy 7km excursion for the whole family to enjoy, starting at the church of Sant Sadurní in the village of Castellví de la Marca. At the top you will find a unique sculpture.
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