This is the last route of those we have been proposing, designed to discover – or rediscover – a territory that continuously surprises. The coast of L'Ametlla de Mar includes one of the best-preserved stretches of the Catalan coastline, with a vast area of land protected by the Catalonia Natural Interest Spaces Plan. We are in a space that enjoys a very rich history, where coves and fortifications come to life and speak of times of pirates and bandits. A coastline that bears witness to the effort of fishermen and farmers who have known how to extract food of extraordinary quality. This route can be done both on foot and by bike. Route 3: The fields and waters of the fishermen. • From L'Ametlla de Mar to Puig Moltó • Distance: 8.6 km (one way) • Approximate time: 2 hours • Effort: moderate (high at some points) • Elevation gain: approx. 250 m

Any ascent to a peak, no matter how small, requires some effort, especially if done by bike. It’s always possible to get off the bike and continue on foot, slowly. However, the effort will surely be rewarded with views of the coast of L'Ametlla de Mar, the Ebro Delta, and the hills covered with pine trees that descend to touch the blue sea. The route allows you to enter the intimacy of the backcountry, stroll through centuries-old fields of olive trees, carob trees, and almond trees, and rise up to admire these landscapes from a bird’s-eye view.

The route starts at the Tourist Information Office and heads south, on the left side of the train bridge, towards the path to Port de l'Estany. This path begins right in front of the Sant Jordi Public School, heading towards the Hotel Ametlla Mar and Camping Ametlla.

After about three kilometers, we will come across the Santes Creus ravine and turn right up the ravine to cross the train and highway bridges. Just after crossing the second bridge, turn 90º to the left to take a path parallel to the highway. About 200 meters further, the path splits (there are trash bins), and we will take the right one. After about 500 meters, the path splits again, and we will take the left path. The trail continues uphill, with the incline gradually increasing until we reach the top of the mountain, where we will take a little-used stone path to the right that leads to Puig Moltó. The steep incline of the final stretch forces you to get off the bike and walk the last few meters to the summit.

For those unfamiliar with the area (especially the final stretch, where the route enters rural paths), we recommend stopping by the Tourist Information Office, where we have a map to guide you.

The return route can be the same, with the option to stop for a swim at one of the nearby coves. We hope you enjoy this hiking and biking route through the interior of the coast of the Terres de l'Ebre Biosphere Reserve, where you can discover the best-kept secrets of this spectacular territory. And remember, for any doubts, we are at your disposal at the Tourist Information Office of L'Ametlla de Mar.

Text: @Rafael López-Monné

Photo: @xaviersoléguimerà