The best traffic-free bike rides around Mataró

One of those places where it's worth slowing down a bit and looking around. Towering trees, dense forest, and a light that, when it filters through the canopy, makes this stretch spectacular. In summer, the shade is also greatly appreciated. And you're in Vallgorguina, land of forests, dolmens, and old witch stories. Very close by, in Pedra Gentil, tradition says that covens and witch gatherings were held. I don't know if any remain, but if you pass through here with this light, you perfectly understand why so many legends were born in these woods. A beautiful stretch to enjoy by bike without rushing.

Parc i Font de la Llorita Aquest indret, molt a la vora del centre urbà, va ser des dels anys cinquanta un lloc d'esbarjo per a molts llavanerencs. Al costat de la riera i a l'ombra de les alzines i altres arbres centenaris, es va construir una font i diversos bancs; durant alguns anys, també s'hi instal·lava, a l'estiu, un petit "merendero". Eren moltes, les colles d'amics que als vespres d'estiu es portaven les taules i cadires per anar a sopar sota la fresca dels arbres. També s'hi organitzaven ballades de sardanes i altres actes festius i també era un lloc habitual per als infants de les escoles que hi anaven, la tarda del dijous gras o altres dies, a fer una excursió i berenar. Font: Ajuntament de Sant Andreu de Llavaneres

The entire promenade at Platja del Callao is designated as a public beach area and offers benches, shaded spots, and free relaxation areas. Additionally, there is a public toilet on the beach section. Everywhere you look, you'll see the mega cute, small monk parakeets. This is a naturalized parrot species. You see them very often in and around Barcelona, in parks, avenues, and beach promenades. For locals, they are a nuisance, but for tourists, the lively, green splashes of color are very cute to observe.

Good morning route. No difficulties

An ancient watchtower with a Roman base and medieval structure, perched at an altitude of 416 meters, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Vallès region. Built to monitor roads and warn of dangers, it was converted into a hunting lodge in 1906, with the addition of a kitchen and bedrooms. Later, it fell into disrepair, was vandalized, and was restored in 2011. Today, it is open to the public and a popular stop for cyclists due to its strategic location, shade, and natural viewpoint. The base retains Roman ashlar blocks, making it an archaeological rarity in the heart of the mountains.

Located about 6 km from Llinars del Vallès and at an altitude of 406 meters, the hermitage of Sant Sebastià offers beautiful views, shade, and a picnic area, making it an ideal stop along the way. Documented since 1640, it lay in ruins until 2016 when a group of volunteers began its reconstruction, which was faithfully completed in 2018. The hermitage, measuring 10 x 5 meters, was notable for its bell gable, voussoir archway, and granite blocks. Traditionally, gatherings were held there in honor of Saint Sebastian, protector against the plague and storms. Small stones found in the surrounding area were believed to bring good luck and protection.

I walk through dense woods where a huge pine tree once stood, serving as a landmark for the charcoal burners and shepherds of Montseny. The tree fell decades ago, but its name still marks the spot. The path, surrounded by silence and the scent of resin, retains that feeling of a natural border between two valleys. On clear days, the air here seems cleaner, as if it still holds some of the spirit of the old pine.

Simple... but perfect!! This covered patio with table is perfect for a picnic or a simple rest stop, whether you're on foot 👣, by bike 🚲, or by car 🚗