Puig del Far

The Puig del Far is a prominent mountain in the Osona region, with an altitude of 832 meters. It is located within the municipalities of Tavèrnoles and Vilanova de Sau, forming part of the Guilleries-Savassona Natural Area, and is included in the list of the FEEC's 100 significant peaks.

Its natural environment is lush, with forests dominated by oaks, holm oaks, chestnuts, Scots pines, and maritime pines, complemented by a rich undergrowth of boxwood, strawberry trees, and heather. Additionally, aromatic plants and flowers like the characteristic Ramonda myconi (orella d'ós) can be found. The fauna is noteworthy, with birds of prey such as falcons and a pair of Egyptian vultures, and mammals like foxes, wild boars, and badgers inhabiting its woods.

Geologically, the mountain is a testament to the past. Its base features red sandstones and conglomerates, formed by ancient rivers. Higher up, calcareous rocks conceal marine fossils, indicating that over 50 million years ago, the area was covered by an inland sea. Erosion acting on the soft sandstones has sculpted large rock formations and spectacular caves (balmes), which historically served as shelters for shepherds and bandits.

The summit acts as an exceptional nearly 360-degree viewpoint (caution is advised due to the lack of protective railings near the cliff edge). From here, an impressive panorama unfolds, encompassing the Sau Reservoir and the Vilanova de Sau valley. To the south and east, one can discern the Vic plain, the Guilleries, and the Montseny massifs (with Matagalls and Les Agudes). On clear days, the view extends north and west to major mountain ranges like Pedraforca, Port del Comte, and the Serra del Cadí.

In the immediate vicinity, distinctive tabular reliefs and rock walls stand out, such as Roca Falconera and the Cingles de Vilanova at its base, or the Cingles de Tavertet and the Collsacabra massif (with Agullola de Rupit and Cingle del Far) across the reservoir. Vilanova de Sau is the most common starting point for the ascent, while Tavèrnoles shares municipal boundaries with the peak.