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Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Pere prlpz assumed (based on copyright claims)., CC BY-SA 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons
It stands as the highest (2909.8m) and westernmost of the peaks that make up the so-called Gran Olla, which surrounds the Vall de Núria. It is a wide and rounded peak, and its ascent is easy if the weather conditions are not very adverse. At its summit there is a wrought iron cross. Classic route: From the sanctuary, we will start a simple path in a westward direction through the Sant Gil forest, from where we will follow the course of the torrent entering the coma of l'Embut and finally reaching a rain gauge. From here the path becomes rockier, with a steeper slope, and we must overcome a difficult scree
The Peak of Puigmal, also called Puigmal d'Err, is a mountain in the Pyrenees, in the Spanish-French border, within the limits of the municipality of Queralbs and the commune of Err. Its summit is 2,909.6 metres (9,546 ft) above sea level, one of the highest peaks in the eastern Pyrenees. Puigmal d'Err is near the west end of a fine ridge over 2500m high for 16 km. The west half is composed of friable metasediments (schists) which break down to form smooth slopes, and so give easy walking. The east half is of tougher gneiss and forms spiky alpine scenery with sharp crests and some difficult places. Several excellent circuits can be made from Nuria. The plateau summit of Puigmal d'Err is split for several hundred metres by a bold scarp, in places over 20 metres high, with the eastern half having slipped bodily towards Nuria. This is clearly seen on GoogleEarth. Several other crests in this range are likewise split.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Forat de l'Embut
is a striking karst feature where a stream disappears into a network of fissures and underground passages, then emerges again beyond the mountain. The contrasting local geology explains the effect: the pale marble contains water-soluble limestone, while the darker schist does not dissolve.
Distance: 4.2 km, Estimated time: 2 hours, Cumulative elevation gain: +415 m, Difficulty (SENDIF method): Moderate
El camí del Via Crucis de Núria
1.6 km, Estimated time: 1h 30min, Cumulative elevation gain: +152 m. Origin: Work began in 1914, following a Franciscan congress, to connect the hermitages and the sanctuary. Construction: The foundation stone was laid in 1915 (by Bishop Benlloch), and construction continued until 1963, funded by donations from the devout. Style: It is notable for its monumental character, featuring Stations of the Cross that display a wide and surprising variety of sculptural styles integrated into the mountainside. Route: It offers incredible views of Lake Núria, the Pla de Sant Gil, and the surrounding valley. It is a short, accessible excursion that is ideal for families.
Salt de la Cua de Cavall
Mirador alberg pic de l'àliga
Great view of the Nuria Valley.
Collet de les Barraques
The site has wide views of the Serra de Montgrony and the Rigard valley, as well as the Corral Blanc refuge, parking, a picnic area and viewpoints. Several walking routes begin here, including an ascent towards Puigmal. In winter, confirm that the access track is open and passable before starting the route.