Pedraforca Circular Hike from Gósol | Twin Peaks, Castle & Summit Trail
Medium-hard 14 km hike from Gósol to Pedraforca’s twin peaks. Includes castle ruins, forest trails, and an optional summit scramble. Ideal for summer or snowshoeing
Views:
2.2k
About Pedraforca
Pedraforca is one of Catalonia’s most iconic mountains, located in the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park in the Berguedà region of the Pre-Pyrenees. Its distinctive forked silhouette features two parallel peaks — the pollegons — joined by a saddle known as the enforcadura.
The higher peak, Pollegó Superior (2,506 m), includes a secondary summit called El Calderer (2,496 m). The lower peak, Pollegó Inferior, reaches 2,444 m, while the enforcadura rises to 2,356 m. Both faces of the mountain are flanked by scree fields (tartera in Catalan).
Pedraforca straddles the provinces of Barcelona and Lleida, with the villages of Gósol and Saldes nearby. Alongside Montserrat, it’s considered one of the most emblematic peaks in Catalonia — featured in the Berguedà coat of arms and beloved by hikers and climbers alike.
History of Gósol Castle and Its Strategic Role
Gósol Castle dates back to the 11th century and was originally constructed under the authority of the Counts of Cerdanya as a fortified outpost in the high Pyrenees. Perched atop a rounded hill overlooking the valley, the castle had sweeping views of the surrounding terrain — a natural vantage point for monitoring movement through the region. Its primary role was to protect the medieval settlement known as Vila Vella, which was later abandoned in favour of the modern village at the base of the hill.
Strategically, Gósol sat near a mountain pass that connected the counties of Cerdanya and Urgell, making it a key location for controlling trade routes, defending against incursions, and asserting feudal authority. After the Counts of Cerdanya, the castle passed to the Counts of Barcelona and eventually became part of the Crown of Aragon. The noble family Galceran de Pinós served as vassals responsible for the castle’s upkeep and military function during this period.
Today, the ruins of Gósol Castle offer panoramic views of the Pedraforca massif and surrounding valleys, and remain a testament to the region’s medieval frontier history. The site is also part of the Camí dels Bons Homes (GR-107), a long-distance trail tracing the escape route of Cathar refugees from France to Catalonia.
Gósol is also known for hosting Pablo Picasso in the summer of 1906, when he painted the surrounding landscapes and his companion Fernande Olivier. At the time, the village was only accessible by mule along a rugged mountain path.
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Visiting Pedraforca for the circular mountain route
This 14 km circular medium-hard route begins in Gósol, a quiet village west of the Pedraforca summit. The trail includes a visit to the 10th-century Gósol Castle ruins, which overlooks the valley and village. I’ve hiked Pedraforca in both summer and winter — each offering a unique challenge and atmosphere.
From the parking area, follow the road into town past the Santa Maria de Gósol church. At the ornate roundabout, take the ascending road that curves left into Carrer de Cerdanya. Look out for a gravel fork on the right — this marks the start of the GR-107 trail, which climbs gently into the pine forest.
The path emerges onto a wide mountain plain called Collada de la Font Terrers (1,630 m), home to a natural spring and the Àrea Recreativa Font Terrers picnic area. After a short rest, continue along the left fork of the GR-107, re-entering the forest and ascending further into the lower slopes.
At a small stream crossing, watch for an unmarked left-hand trail — this is the PR-C-123, which climbs parallel to the stream through the Coma de Caners forest. Pass the Font de la Portella spring as the trail steepens and eventually emerges between two minor peaks before curving right.
As the terrain levels out, consider a short detour to a natural viewpoint overlooking the Roc de Setfonts. Back on the main trail, you’ll cross a sloping plateau — lush with wildflowers in summer and snow-covered in winter. Follow the Wikiloc route across this open plain.
At the top of the plateau, rejoin the PR-C-123 and turn right. Note the dramatic drop to your left as the trail skirts the edge of the forested valley. This section offers sweeping views of the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park. The terrain becomes rockier as you enter the ridge-top outcrops of Graller de Set Fonts (2,204 m).
Upon reaching Coll de Setfonts, assess weather and fitness before attempting the optional summit scramble to Pollegó Superior and Pollegó Inferior. This section is steep and exposed — best tackled in summer under clear conditions.
Returning from the summit, descend back to Coll de Setfonts and take the left fork on the PR-C-123. The trail drops through alpine meadows toward Prat Gran, then re-enters the forest. You’ll pass a small clearing with remnants of a stone wall — possibly an old animal pen or shepherd’s shelter.
At Coll de la Guàrdia (1,620 m), continue downhill, enjoying views from a rocky bluff overlooking Gósol. The trail emerges on the village’s edge. Turn left onto the rural road and follow it to the roundabout near Café Rebost. Before stopping, I recommend a short walk up to the castle ruins via Carrer de la Canal. Just before the summit, you’ll pass the Ermita de la Mare de Déu del Roser chapel.
For post-hike snacks, I recommend Hostal Cal Franciscó or Café Rebost — both offer hearty local fare and outdoor seating.
For the end of hike snacks I recommend Hostal Cal Franciscó or café Rebost.
Hiking Pedraforca with a Dog
The lower slopes are covered in pine forest, which may host Pine Processionary Caterpillars in spring and summer. In winter, snow-loving dogs will enjoy the open terrain — just be mindful of cold paws and icy patches.
The route offers a mix of forest trails, mountain plains, and wildlife scents (boar and rabbit). A stream in the pine forest provides water, and the summit scramble can be skipped if needed. Restaurant Cal Paraire and Hostal Cal Francisco offer dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Restaurant Cal Paraire and Hostal Cal Franciscó have outside tables for dog friendly dining.
What to take for Pedraforca circular mountain route
Prepare for variable mountain weather — wind is common. Pack:
- 2–3 litres of water
- Layered clothing and waterproof shell
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Crampons and snowshoes (for winter)
- Snacks
Pedraforca Guided mountain Hiking
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Pedraforca circular mountain route Summary of Prices
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Adult
€ 25.00
FREE
Child
€ 25.00
FREE
Getting to Gosól
Address: 400 Km 1 Gosol, Gosol, 25716
- Public Transport: ALSA buses run from Berga to Gósol, departing midday and arriving ~80 minutes later. Berga itself is ~2 hours from Barcelona by bus. Pedraforca is not feasible as a day trip by public transport — an overnight stay is recommended.
- By Car: Take the C-16 motorway past Manresa and Berga. Stop at the Rodonella service area near Cercs for breakfast at Els Portals de Cercs, known for its pastries and reservoir views. Continue north to the B-400 toward Maçaners, Saldes, and Gósol. Don’t miss the Mirador de Pedraforca lay-by for a scenic photo stop. Total drive time from Barcelona is ~2 hours, excluding stops.
Documents for Pedraforca circular mountain route
Wikiloc Trail for Pedraforca circular mountain route
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