The best running trails around El Montmell

Church of Sant Miquel and of the Mare de Déu del Remei (19th century, neoclassical, BCIL IPA-5385, located at Carrer Major 12, La Juncosa del Montmell) New Church of Sant Miquel (consecrated in 1598, now in ruins with a semicircular arch facade, rose window and tower, located at Carrer de l’Església 7) Old Romanesque Church of Sant Miquel (11th–12th century, with Lombard apse, restored in 1953, on a high esplanade at 781 m) Hermitage of Sant Marc (documented in 1338, with Romanesque and Gothic remains, located on the hillside at 711 m between the old church and the castle) Montmell Castle (medieval remains at the top, large viewpoint over the Penedès).

The Coll de l’Arca is the mountain pass that connects Joncosa del Montmell with Aiguaviva. Until a few years ago it was just a difficult track, but now with the paved road it has become a key point that gives life to both towns. From here begins the descent to Aiguaviva, fast and panoramic, ideal to enjoy it on MTB. In addition to the pass, the col is a connection point with routes to Cova Gran and other interesting paths that cross the mountain range. It is a perfect place to stop for a moment, breathe and decide where to continue, with the feeling of being in the heart of Montmell.

The Puig de la Cova (672 m) rises above Aiguaviva and offers one of the best panoramic views of the entire Montmell mountain range. The peak is easily recognizable by its silhouette and the small rock shelter nearby, the Cova, which gives it its name. The climb by MTB is tough, with rocky sections and a steep slope that force you to push the bike at some points, but the reward is brutal: from the top you can see the Penedès, the sea on clear days and the entire Montmell ridge. I got there by electric bike and, if you have a little experience, you can reach the summit without getting off. The path is full of rolled pebbles that complicate the route, but there are also sections of firm rock that give you confidence to move forward. When you reach the top, the views are 360º, epic and panoramic, a perfect viewpoint that combines effort, history and nature before launching yourself on the descents back to the village.

The Castellot del Montmell hermitage, dedicated to Sant Miquel, is a small Romanesque gem from the 11th century located just below the remains of the castle. Despite its simple and half-ruined state, it still preserves part of the apse and the original walls, which speak of a time when this was the spiritual and defensive center of the area. Getting there by MTB is quite a challenge: the path is stony and with very steep sections, and you almost always have to walk the last few meters. But once at the top, the view compensates for any effort - with the entire Montmell mountain range at your feet, the open Penedès and, on clear days, the sea line in the background. The hermitage, despite its condition, transmits silence and history, as if it were still watching over the ruins of the castle.

Very nice climb especially the last 150 meters 👍💪

From the church of Sant Sadurní de la Marca you can see not only the chapel itself but also the views of the castle on top of the mountain.

The riera de Marmellar is one of the streams that surrounds the Castellot de Castellví. Deep valleys between rapidly rising mountains.

Beautiful tower not only for its views but also for the views it offers of the Penedès plain. The demanding climb is worth it!