Sadernes: Trails, Rocks and History

Between rocks, forests and historic trails, Sadernes reveals several sides of a journey through Alta Garrotxa. The route from Sadernes to Puig de Bassegoda passes the ruins of Castell Sespasa. The pre-feudal complex dates from the 9th to 10th century. The foundations of a rectangular tower and part of a wall have been preserved. Castell Sespasa also includes a prominent rock face with climbing routes.

History and Places of Remembrance

Sant Aniol d’Aguja, a Romanesque building from the 11th century, stands in the surroundings of Sadernes. The church was declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest in 1983. Below Sant Aniol d’Aguja lies the Cova de l’Abat, a crypt carved into the rock. Santa Cecília de Sadernes also preserves a trace of European history: behind its apse, a marker from the network of Places of Remembrance commemorates the passage of Spanish Republican refugees in the winter of 1939.

The old medieval route from Sadernes to Sant Llorenç de Cerdans ran via the Hostal de la Muga and served as a route into exile. This historic connection therefore stands alongside the religious buildings and the ruins of Castell Sespasa as a distinct part of the area’s history.

Natural Area and Rocky Landscape

The geological section between Sadernes and the former Farga belongs to the protected natural area of Alta Garrotxa. Sinkholes allow water to seep into the aquifer along this section. There are also limestone karren formed by the chemical dissolution of the rock. The natural cave Cova de la Guitlla is also located beside the path. Water, limestone and caves shape a landscape along this section whose forms emerge directly from the rock.

Routes and Activities

The Sadernes–Sant Aniol d’Aguja route leads through rugged, wooded terrain. There are no services, springs or mobile phone reception along the route. Signposting consists of orange and green markings, as well as the yellow markings of Itinerànnia. The Sadernes–Puig de Bassegoda route begins on the path beside the church of Santa Cecília de Sadernes. Beside the Pont de Valentí, a G40 marker from the Itinerànnia trail network points towards Route 5 to Bassegoda.

Canyoning in the area is limited to 70 people per week on the central Sant Aniol and les Canals axis. The rock face at Castell Sespasa directly combines climbing routes with a historic complex. Current route conditions and applicable requirements for hiking and canyoning can be checked before setting out.

Arrival in the Vall de Sant Aniol

For visitors wishing to go to the Vall de Sant Aniol, the Sadernes car park is the only designated car park during the applicable period. From there, the journey must continue on foot or by bicycle. Arrival is therefore closely linked to the remainder of the route and the chosen means of transport.

For the overarching travel overview: Sales De Llierca.