L'Ametlla de Mar and its "Paths of the Mediterranean"

L'Ametlla de Mar and its "Paths of the Mediterranean"

3 minute/s read
L'Ametlla de Mar and its "Paths of the Mediterranean"

L'Ametlla de Mar and its "Paths of the Mediterranean", 3 hiking routes you will love. (Part 2)

The 3 routes we will propose have been designed to discover – or rediscover – a land that continually surprises. The coastline of L'Ametlla de Mar includes one of the best-preserved stretches of the Catalan coast, with a large area of land protected by the Natural Areas of Interest Plan of Catalonia. We find ourselves in a place with a rich history, where coves and fortifications come to life and tell stories of pirates and bandits. A coastline that bears witness to the efforts of fishermen and farmers who have managed to extract food of extraordinary quality. Route 2: Where the pines fall in love with the sea.

From L'Ametlla de Mar to Cala de l'Àliga via the GR 92 Distance: 9.4 km (one way) Approximate time: 2.45 hours Difficulty: moderate Elevation gain: approx. 120 m

The proposed itinerary follows the GR92 "Mediterranean Path", starting from the fishing port of L'Ametlla de Mar and heading south towards L'Ampolla, passing through some of the best-preserved sections of the Catalan coast. Along the route, the remains of ancient watchtowers, trenches, and battery sites (such as the popularly known "fortifications") serve as reminders of a less peaceful past.

Before reaching the Natural Port and the Platja de l'Estany Gras, we will come across a series of small coves surrounded by beautiful rocky landscapes: Cala Pepo, Cala Bon Caponet (dog-friendly), and Bon Capó. Once we pass the Platja de l'Estany, we will walk by the "Fortifications" (old coastal batteries from the Spanish Civil War) that were built to protect the coast from the Nationalist forces' invasion, which eventually occurred through the Ebre.

Next, we will encounter Cala de Port Olivet and its spectacular pine forest. Shortly after, the route crosses a protected area of special natural value. The area between the Barranc and the Platja de Santes Creus (a name derived from the monks of the Cistercian monastery of the same name) and Punta de l'Àliga still retains a significant degree of naturalness, with remarkable landscape and biological values, typical of the terrestrial and marine natural systems of the southern Mediterranean. Within this area, we will pass one of the most welcoming coves along this stretch of coastline: Cala de l'Estany Podrit.

After leaving Punta de l'Àliga behind, the trail follows a more rugged and even more spectacular coastline, with small inlets in the rocks that form beautiful coves. Soon, we will be presented with the imposing Roca de l'Illot, which forms a small peninsula, sure to be a spot you won't stop photographing.

The route ends at Platja de l'Àliga, right at the beginning of the municipal territory of El Perelló, although the GR92 continues south, and you can keep going depending on your stamina.

Tips: The hike follows the GR 92 at all times.

The itinerary doesn't end at the same place it starts. It’s important to plan for the return trip by vehicle or simply turn back once you’ve reached half the planned time for the hike.

During the summer, the heat can be very intense, so it’s best to start early to avoid the hottest hours of the day. Don’t forget water, a hat, and proper footwear.

It’s probably unnecessary to mention, but just in case: be very cautious with fire and take care of your trash.

We hope you enjoy this hiking route along the natural coast of the Terres de l’Ebre Biosphere Reserve, where you can discover the best-kept secrets of this spectacular stretch of the Catalan coastline. And remember, if you have any questions, we are at your disposal at the L’Ametlla de Mar Tourist Office.

Text: Rafael López-Monné and L’Ametlla de Mar Tourism.

Photo: Xavier Francesc Solé Guimerà.