Highlight • Religious Site
Santuario del Far
Hiking
4.8
(24)
Running
5.0
(1)
The Santuari del Far is a historic religious building and an extraordinary viewpoint perched dramatically atop the colossal Far cliff in Catalonia, Spain. Located in the La Selva region of Girona, this iconic sanctuary stands at an elevation of around 1,120 to 1,125 meters above sea level. It holds significant geographical importance, marking the boundary between the Collsacabra sub-region, the Les Guilleries region, and the Hostoles valley, offering a unique vantage point over these diverse landscapes.
What truly captivates visitors…
Tips
April 10, 2022
Hiking
•May 22, 2020
Hiking
•October 25, 2022
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Santuario del Far
4.7
(9)
77
hikers
11.1km
03:34
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.3
(4)
57
hikers
14.0km
04:32
530m
530m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(6)
55
hikers
7.33km
02:31
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,120 m
Weather
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Tuesday 17 March
18°C
3°C
25 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular hiking routes to Santuari del Far, and what are their difficulty levels?
Several well-known routes lead to Santuari del Far, primarily originating from the village of Sant Martí Sacalm. The Santa Anna grade is a popular choice, alongside the Cabrafiga grade and the Goleró grade (on the Fornils side). While the intro mentions these, it doesn't detail difficulty. These routes typically involve significant elevation gain to reach the 1,112-meter altitude, making them generally considered intermediate to challenging, suitable for hikers with some experience. For beginners, there might be easier, shorter walks closer to the sanctuary once you've driven up.
Is there ample parking available at Santuari del Far, and are there any fees or restrictions?
Yes, there is ample parking available directly at the Santuari del Far complex. The research indicates a well-maintained path leading to the site and sufficient parking. However, community tips suggest that during peak times, especially on weekends or holidays, parking can fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a spot, though no specific fees or permits are mentioned in the provided data.
Are there any public transport options to reach Santuari del Far?
The provided information primarily highlights access by road and hiking trails. There is no direct mention of public transport options to Santuari del Far in the available data. Visitors typically reach the sanctuary by private vehicle or as part of a hike from nearby villages like Sant Martí Sacalm.
Is Santuari del Far suitable for families with young children, and are there any specific family-friendly activities?
Santuari del Far can be family-friendly, especially if driving up. The complex includes a picnic area with barbecues and a small children's park, making it a pleasant spot for families to relax and enjoy the views. For hiking, the routes to the sanctuary are generally intermediate, so families with young children might prefer shorter, easier walks around the immediate area once at the top, or choose to drive directly to the sanctuary.
Are dogs allowed at Santuari del Far and on the surrounding trails?
The provided data does not explicitly state whether dogs are allowed at Santuari del Far or on its trails. Generally, in outdoor areas in Catalonia, dogs are often permitted on trails if kept on a leash. However, it's always best to check local signage upon arrival or consult official park regulations if planning to bring a dog, especially within the sanctuary building itself.
What is the best time of year to visit Santuari del Far for hiking, considering weather and crowds?
The intro mentions that clear days offer the most spectacular views, which is key for enjoying the panoramic scenery. While the sanctuary is popular throughout the year, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant hiking weather, with milder temperatures and often clear skies. Summer can be hot, and winter can bring colder temperatures and potentially snow at this altitude (1,112m), requiring appropriate gear. To avoid crowds, visiting on weekdays or early mornings on weekends is recommended, as it's a highly frequented destination.
What amenities are available at Santuari del Far, such as restaurants or accommodation?
Santuari del Far is well-equipped with visitor amenities. The complex includes an inn (hostelry), a restaurant, and a picnic area with barbecues. This makes it a convenient stop for meals or even an overnight stay, offering comfort after a hike or a scenic drive. There's also a small children's park and an offering chapel.
Are there other notable viewpoints or natural features near Santuari del Far besides the main sanctuary cliff?
While the sanctuary itself is the primary viewpoint, offering extensive vistas of the Susqueda Reservoir, Tavertet cliffs, Les Guilleries, and Montseny, the entire Far cliff area is impressive. The sanctuary sits at the tip of a colossal cliff, which is a significant natural feature in itself, marking a boundary between sub-regions. The surrounding Collsacabra and Les Guilleries regions are rich in natural beauty, offering numerous other scenic spots and trails for exploration, though specific named viewpoints beyond the sanctuary are not detailed in the provided information.
What should I wear for hiking to Santuari del Far, especially during colder months?
Given its altitude of 1,112 meters, weather conditions can change rapidly. For hiking, layered clothing is always recommended, allowing you to adapt to temperature fluctuations. Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the intermediate trails. During colder months, such as winter, it's crucial to wear warm, waterproof, and windproof outer layers, along with a hat, gloves, and thermal base layers. The elevation means it will be significantly colder than at sea level, and snow is possible.
What is the historical significance of Santuari del Far?
Santuari del Far boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century, with documented references from 1256 and recognized devotion by 1332. The original structure was destroyed by earthquakes in 1428 but was rebuilt in the Gothic style. It underwent further renovations in the 17th century and received its current appearance after a 1970s renovation. It houses a devout Gothic alabaster image of the Virgin Mary. A legend suggests its name, 'Far' (lighthouse), comes from a light guiding sailors to safety, highlighting its long-standing spiritual and cultural importance in the region.
Are there any circular hiking routes that include Santuari del Far?
While the provided data mentions several routes leading to Santuari del Far from Sant Martí Sacalm (Santa Anna, Cabrafiga, Goleró grades), it doesn't explicitly detail specific circular routes. However, given the network of trails in the Collsacabra and Les Guilleries regions, it is highly probable that hikers can combine different paths to create circular walks that include the sanctuary as a key point of interest. Exploring komoot or local trail maps would be beneficial for finding such options.