Parc Natural del Montseny (from Vic)
Vic sits at the gateway to the Parc Natural del Montseny, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve whose ancient beech forests, granite peaks, and tumbling streams lie less than 30 kilometres south of the city. In autumn the beech canopy turns a riotous copper and gold; in spring, wildflower meadows bloom between the oaks. This is the wild green lung of central Catalonia, and it is absurdly easy to reach.
Best Trails from the Vic Side
The northern flank of Montseny, accessed via the village of Seva or Viladrau, is quieter than the more popular southern approaches from the Vallès. The trail from Viladrau to the Turó de l'Home summit (1,706 m) is a full-day hike of around 14 km return, rewarding you with views that on a clear day stretch from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean.
For a shorter outing, the Gorges de Rialb near Sant Sadurní d'Osormort — a hamlet of extraordinary medieval beauty accessible from Vic in 25 minutes by car — offer a 3-hour circular walk through beech forest and along a boulder-strewn stream.
Wildlife and Seasons
Montseny is home to wild boar, roe deer, and over 200 bird species. The forest floor in October and November is carpeted with ceps, chanterelles, and rovellons — mushroom picking (with a permit) is a deeply embedded local ritual and you'll see families with baskets on every trail.
The park is accessible year-round but most dramatic in mid-October for autumn colour and in May for wildflowers. Summer weekends can be crowded on the main trails; aim for a weekday morning.
Getting There from Vic
Viladrau and Seva are reachable by car from Vic in 25–35 minutes via the C-17 and local roads. There is no direct public bus from Vic into the park interior, so a car or bicycle is strongly recommended.
The village of Viladrau has a small tourist office with free trail maps and up-to-date path conditions. The Bar Restaurant Can Barrina in Viladrau serves a legendary post-hike escudella stew in winter.
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