Explore Olivella off the beaten track

Tucked into the Garraf hills, Olivella is where nature takes a deep breath. Olivella is one of our favourite places to visit, quiet, off the beaten tourist tracks and full of history and beautiful walks.

Here are our favourite things to do, and most are free!

1. Hike the Cami del Castell (The Old Castle)

Wander the gentle paths to Castell d’Olivella ruins, where you can enjoy stunning views over the vineyards and forest. You can find a great trail map on Wikiloc.

2. Walk the scenic trails in the Garraf Natural Park

Discover the routes we like the most, follow the trail to the Garraf astronomical observatory or Puig del Coscó, all of which include peaceful forest trails, hill views and if you end up at the observatory, starry night skies.

The Garraf Park observatory trail starts at the Buddhist Monastery at Plana Novella, which is our 4th favourite local walk in this post.  The trail is mostly gravel so good walking shoes are a must, unless two wheels are an option for some mountain biking.

Of course, if it all feels a little too strenuous during the summer months; we would still suggest a trip to the observatory to take part in one of their many activities. Here is their website just in case you want to see what is on.  

3. Explore Jafre, the abandoned village of Olivella

A visit to the ghostly remains of Jafre, an area that evokes forgotten Catalan life and silence. An abandoned village in Olivella, its historical significance and remnants are of a community from a long time ago; especially the Church of Saint Mary and the bell tower.

Originally the village had a firewood and livestock tradition and in the 17th century became more populated with the vineyards we all love to experience here in the Garraf. The village sadly experience a gradual decline starting with flooding of the land and then a plague that swept through it on the 19th century and the 83 inhabitants.

The Church of Saint Mary ruins can be explored, and the altar is still visible, the bell tower stands apart from the church beautifully perched on the rocks. You can find the ruins of Jafre by following signs for the GR 92.4 trail. 

4. Visit the Buddhist Monastery grounds at Plana Novella

Yes, we have a Buddhist Monastery here in the Garraf, you can stroll around the beautiful gardens and enjoy the quiet grounds of Sakya Tashi Ling. High in the quiet hills near Olivella, the Garraf Monastery holds space for reflection, peace, and presence. Scattered across its grounds are ancient stupas — each one carrying a unique energy and purpose. Offering meditation, offerings of prayers and incense and much more.

You can experience stillness in the Stupas of Garraf Monastery. The Namgyelma Stupa,  for health & long life
is set in the outer courtyard an is a circle of calm. Walk slowly around it, spin the prayer wheels, and you might just feel the weight of modern life start to lift. It’s believed to support physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.

The Jamyang Stupa, for wisdom is tucked inside the Lemon Tree Courtyard, this stupa invites stillness. Dedicated to clarity and insight, it’s a quiet nod to those seeking deeper meaning through meditation or simply a moment of silence under the sun.

In view of sustainable tourism, please be mindful that numbers may be restricted, but you can find more information here.

5. Explore the town of Olivella

Of course, finally is the beautiful are of Olivella itself, stone-built streets, local squares and the 17th century church of Sant Pere i Sant Feliu. Worth a trip to slow down and explore.

You can read more about the history of Olivella.

Locals are lucky to have the Garraf Natural Park on their doorstep — but it’s here for anyone ready to slow down, step out, and reconnect. Winding trails, wide skies, and peaceful viewpoints make Olivella a quiet favourite for hikers, wanderers, and those craving a moment outdoors.

LPT Announcement: Please ensure if you are going on any walks during the hot months in Catalonia, you walk at the cooler start and end of the day, not in the mid-day sun. Take plenty of water and ensure someone knows where you are heading off to.