Vilanova de Sau at the Sau Reservoir

Nature and Water

The Sau Reservoir was opened in 1962. Since then, it has changed the landscape of the Vall de Sau. The cliffs of Vilanova de Sau are among the best-known cliffs in the Guilleries-Savassona natural area. The town therefore brings together a clearly defined reservoir shoreline and the municipality’s striking rocky landscape.

The former village of Sant Romà disappeared beneath the waters of the Sau Reservoir. Only its bell tower occasionally rises above the water. The recreational area at the Sau Reservoir offers an exceptional viewpoint of the bell tower of Sant Romà, which rises from the reservoir’s waters. The historical connection thus remains tied to a single visible structure, while the former village itself lies beneath the water’s surface.

The recreational area is accessible by motorized vehicles. The picnic tables and sanitary facilities have been adapted for people with reduced mobility.

In Vilanova de Sau, the Sau Reservoir therefore connects the history of the flooded Sant Romà with a landscape that has been transformed by the reservoir since 1962. The bell tower occasionally makes this historical connection visible, while the cliffs of Vilanova de Sau characterize the Guilleries-Savassona natural area.

Trails and Culture

The Camí Oliba, a Romanesque art route, passes through the municipality of Vilanova de Sau.

A signposted hiking trail to the Domus del Pi begins at the recreational area at the Sau Reservoir. The route follows the GR 2 throughout.

Those who take this trail therefore start at the recreational area and follow the described route along the GR 2 to the Domus del Pi. The viewpoint of the bell tower and the start of the signposted hiking trail are located in the same area mentioned above.

The Pont de Malafogassa is classified as a BCIL, that is, a locally protected cultural asset. The bridge spans the Riera Major and forms part of the former royal road from Vic to Girona. The Pont de Malafogassa was built around 1498.

Its location over the Riera Major is just as much part of the bridge’s traditional history as its connection with the former royal road between Vic and Girona. The dating to around 1498 and its current protected status as a BCIL identify two independent features of the same structure.

Santa Maria de Vilanova is the parish church on the southeastern edge of the inhabited town center.

Also discover Mollet Del Vallès, Viladecans, Gironella, Santa Coloma De Gramenet, Pineda De Mar, Ca l'Avi, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat and Alpens.

Festivals

The Fira d'herbes remeieres i productes artesans takes place regularly every year in Vilanova de Sau. It is held at the end of spring, usually in June.

The Festa Major of Vilanova de Sau is celebrated on 15 August.

Vilanova de Sau can be reached via the C-25. The approach is via exit 187 in the direction of the N-141D, followed by the signposted onward route.

The festivals mentioned therefore take place at different times of the year: the Fira d'herbes remeieres i productes artesans is usually celebrated in June, while the Festa Major takes place on 15 August. For the journey, the route given is the C-25, exit 187, N-141D, followed by the signposted onward route.

For the overarching travel overview: Barcelona.