Puig de l'Àliga

The Puig de l'Àliga (463 m) is the most emblematic mountain in the municipality of Roses, in the Alt Empordà region, and is located within the Cap de Creus Natural Park. This peak, which hosts a geodesic vertex, is part of the "100 peaks" challenge list by the FEEC, standing out for its hiking and scenic appeal.

From its highest point, spectacular 360-degree panoramic views are offered. To the south, one can admire the great Bay of Roses and the Empordà plain, including the mouth of the Muga and Fluvià rivers. To the north, the Bay of Port de la Selva is visible, nestled between the mountains of the Cap de Creus coast, along with the foothills of the eastern Pyrenees.

Geologically, the terrain is abrupt and steeply sloped, shaped by Paleozoic and granitic materials such as pelite, sandstone, siltstone, and dark schists covered with colorful lichens. The environment is wild, characterized by drought, rocky soil, and strong winds like the Tramuntana. The flora includes scrubland with wild olives, mastic, and heather, with prostrate plants adapting to the harsh conditions near the summit. In the valleys, cork oaks and centenary olive trees can be found. The fauna is notable for the Bonelli's eagle, which gives the mountain its name ("Eagle's Peak").

The classic ascent route is circular (7.5-10 km) and typically starts from the Mas Oliva urbanization in Roses, featuring a quite steep and demanding final section. A curiosity is the traditional "Patriotic Ascent" (Pujada Patriòtica) organized to its summit around Catalonia's National Day.