Highlight • Religious Site
Hermitage of Our Lady of Erola
Hiking
5.0
(31)
Running
5.0
(3)
The Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola is a historic religious building nestled in the picturesque municipality of Viladrau, within the province of Girona, Catalonia, Spain. Situated at an elevation of 891 metres, this ancient hermitage is a significant landmark in the Montseny massif area, known for its rich history and tranquil surroundings. It stands on the old road connecting Viladrau to the Sanctuary of Sant Segimon, making it a popular destination for those exploring the region's cultural and natural heritage.
Visitors are consistently drawn to the profound sense of history and resilience that permeates the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola. Its story of repeated destruction and restoration, particularly during the Seven Years' War and the Spanish Civil War, resonates deeply. Hikers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the chestnut hamlet surrounding the hermitage, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into local traditions. The unique architectural details, such as the sundial and the legendary river stone cross marking the Virgin's discovery, also captivate those who visit.
Before embarking on your journey to this historical site, it's helpful to know that the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola is typically accessed via walking routes from Viladrau. Parking is available at La Solana, from where a pleasant hike through tracks lined with centenarian chestnut trees leads to the hermitage. The terrain is generally considered intermediate, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. While the hermitage itself is a peaceful spot, it can be part of longer, more challenging hikes in the Montseny area.
The best time of year to visit the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola is often during spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is at its most vibrant, especially with the autumn colours of the chestnut trees. Beyond hiking, the hermitage is a focal point for cultural events, including an annual *aplec* (pilgrimage) held on the last Sunday of May, featuring mass, communal meals, and traditional sardana dancing. This offers a unique opportunity to experience local customs.
Many visitors enjoy the circular walks around Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola, which vary in difficulty and length, allowing for both leisurely strolls and more challenging excursions. The journey to the hermitage itself, often taking a few hours depending on the starting point in Viladrau, is considered a rewarding experience, combining natural beauty with historical discovery.
Stepping onto the porch, you'll notice the distinctive river stone floor with a cross, which, according to local legend, marks the very spot where the image of the Virgin Mary was found by an ox. This legend, along with the tradition of invoking the Mare de Déu de l'Erola to protect children from smallpox, adds a layer of local folklore to the visit. The hermitage also served as a winter residence for the hermits of Sant Segimon, offering a tangible connection to its past inhabitants.
Whether you're interested in the rich history of a religious building, seeking tranquil hiking trails, or simply looking for a peaceful spot in nature, the area around Viladrau offers numerous options. You can explore a variety of hiking routes to the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola and other nearby landmarks using komoot's route planner, tailoring your adventure to your preferred difficulty and how long to walk.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Parc Natural del Montseny
Tips
September 30, 2018
Running
It is nestled in a beautiful chestnut hamlet halfway through the Sanctuary of Sant Segimon.
Destroyed by a fire …
•
October 22, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hermitage of Our Lady of Erola
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Details
Informations
Elevation 890 m
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Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there different locations for the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola?
Yes, there are at least two notable religious buildings with this name in Catalonia. The primary one, and the focus of most hiking routes, is located in Viladrau, Girona. Another smaller chapel, also known as Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola, is found in Hortsavinyà, Tordera, Barcelona, often visited as part of the GR-92 trail.
What is the typical difficulty of hiking trails to the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola in Viladrau?
The trails leading to the Ermita from Viladrau are generally considered intermediate. While some sections might be gentle, others can involve moderate ascents through the chestnut forests. Hikers should be prepared for varied terrain, and comfortable walking shoes are essential. There are options for both easier, shorter walks and more challenging, longer excursions in the Montseny area.
Is the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola in Tordera accessible via the GR-92 trail?
Yes, the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola near Hortsavinyà in Tordera is located about 500 meters from the Sant Llop d'Hortsavinyà church and is directly accessible via the GR-92 path. This makes it a popular stop for long-distance hikers traversing that section of the trail.
How long does it typically take to walk to the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola from Viladrau?
The duration of the walk depends on your starting point in Viladrau and your pace. Generally, a rewarding journey to the Ermita and back can take a few hours. Many visitors opt for circular routes that allow for exploration of the surrounding chestnut groves and other points of interest.
Is there public transport available to reach the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola in Viladrau?
While Viladrau itself has some public transport connections, direct access to the Ermita by public transport is limited. Most visitors drive to Viladrau and then proceed on foot. It's advisable to check local bus schedules to Viladrau and plan your hike from there, as the final leg to the hermitage is typically a walking route.
Are there any family-friendly or easy walks around the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola?
Yes, while some routes can be intermediate, there are options for easier, shorter walks suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous experience. These often involve gentle paths through the beautiful chestnut hamlet surrounding the hermitage. Look for routes starting closer to the La Solana parking area for a more manageable distance.
Are dogs allowed on the trails leading to Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola?
Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails in the Montseny area, including those leading to the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or other hikers, and to follow local regulations regarding pet waste. Ensure your dog is comfortable with the terrain and distance.
What are the best times of year to visit the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola to avoid crowds?
While spring and autumn are popular for their mild weather and vibrant scenery, they can also attract more visitors. To avoid larger crowds, consider visiting mid-week outside of public holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons can also offer a more tranquil experience. Winter, though colder, can provide a peaceful, less crowded visit for well-prepared hikers.
Are there cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola in Viladrau?
The Ermita itself is in a natural, somewhat secluded setting. However, the nearby village of Viladrau offers various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options such as hotels and rural guesthouses. It's a great place to relax and refuel before or after your hike to the hermitage.
What is the significance of the annual 'aplec' at Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola?
The annual aplec (pilgrimage) held on the last Sunday of May is a significant cultural event. It commemorates the hermitage's traditions and typically includes a mass, a communal meal, and traditional Sardana dancing. It's a vibrant celebration that offers a unique insight into local customs and community spirit, making it a special time to visit.
What historical details can be observed at the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Erola?
Visitors can observe several historical details, including dates inscribed on the structure like 1664 on a window sill, 1689 on a wooden beam, and 1641 on a house door lintel. The entrance features a unique river stone floor with a cross, which, according to legend, marks the spot where the Virgin Mary's image was found. There's also a sundial restored in 1991.