Puig de Bassegoda Circular: An Adventure in Alta Garrotxa

The second week of February 2026 led us on an intense hiking day to Puig de Bassegoda, organized by the Grup Excursionista Cultural i Alpinista (GECA) of Sant Esteve d'en Bas. This prominent peak, recognizable from many surrounding areas, offered us a 12.55 km circular route. Our adventure began at the serene Ermita de Sant Andreu de Gitarriu, a perfect starting point to delve into the landscapes of Alta Garrotxa.

The path initially followed winding tracks and trails, guiding us through lush mixed forests. The fresh winter air and the tranquility of the woods accompanied us until, suddenly, the imposing profile of Puig de Bassegoda rose before us, signaling our approach to the most demanding part of the route. Upon reaching Coll de Riu (993 m), the true ascent began: first, some very easy scrambles that warmed our muscles, followed by an climb up a scree slope to the base of the summit, where vegetation became sparse. There, an equipped scramble of a few meters awaited us, leading directly to the peak.

The reward at the summit was sensational: luxurious 360º views stretching from the sea to the great massifs. Dominating the view to the north was the majestic Massís del Canigó, which unfortunately appeared slightly shrouded in clouds but lost none of its grandeur as the protagonist of the Eastern Pyrenees. We also identified Comanegra, Puig Estela (just opposite Taga), Puigllançada, and the nearby Puigsacalm (1,515 m), along with the Aiats. To the south, the unmistakable silhouette of Montseny, with Turó de l'Home, Agudes, and Matagalls, rose on the horizon. Closer, to the southeast, stood out Mare de Déu del Mont, with its characteristic sanctuary, and the distant expanse of the Gulf of Roses.

After enjoying lunch and these unforgettable views, we began our descent, down-climbing the equipped section to resume the circular route. The limestone terrain tested our endurance and attention as we re-entered the forest. During the descent, we discovered impressive viewpoints offering glimpses of the wildest part of the Alta Garrotxa, with snowy mountains peeking through the clouds. The route led us to the picturesque Church of Nostra Senyora de les Agulles, a hidden gem amidst the forest. Finally, after several more kilometers, navigating some slightly confusing sections and crossing a stream, we arrived back at our cars, concluding an intense and satisfying day in good weather.