One of the best things about camping in the Catalan Pyrenees is being able to enjoy the Cadí-Moixeró. This Natural Park has a large number of magical places that are worth visiting and one of the most interesting is the Dou del Bastareny.
In this article you will find everything you need to know about the Dou del Bastareny, from how to get there to some tips to be able to enjoy the area much more. If you are a hiking and nature lover in particular, don’t miss everything we are going to show you.
What is the Font de la Dou del Bastareny
The Font de la Dou is a natural landscape where the source of the Bastareny river is located. It is one of the most interesting places to visit because it is a practically virgin corner, populated by nature, so it is a gift for lovers of nature.
This unique spring is surrounded by forest and mountains, which gives it a most spectacular and tranquil landscape. If you are looking for a place to relax and feel in communion with nature, you will find few places better than this one.
Where it is located and how to get there
If you want to visit the Font de la Dou you will have to go to Berguedá. The road to Berguedá is quite simple, as all you have to do is follow the signs for Bagà and Gisclareny. Once you are there, the indications are quite simple as you will find several signs that indicate the way to the fountain.
One aspect you should keep in mind is that this is an easy hike. This means that you can perfectly enjoy an excursion with the family through the forest since the path is quite accessible.
Characteristics of the environment and landscape
The Font de la Dou is located in a privileged environment. We are talking about a practically virgin natural environment, so it is far from the light and noise pollution that characterizes cities even in other populated rural areas.
The flora around the fountain is exuberant, so we are talking about a landscape full of life that contributes to creating a cool and humid environment surrounded by areas of crystal clear water. Without a doubt, it is a gift for the eyes, a river landscape where you can also see small waterfalls that make the environment a much wilder place.
As it is a mountainous environment, the panoramic views that you can enjoy in any area of the park are spectacular and, in addition, it is possible to do many outdoor activities around it.
Best time to visit the Dou del Bastareny
The Dou del Bastareny is such a special place that any time of the year is perfect for a visit. In this case, the best time of year to visit the Font de la Dou will have to do with the personal preferences of each person or the activities they would like to do.
If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, with good weather and vibrant colors, spring is one of the best times of the year. Whether you are trekking or having a picnic in the wild, spring is a good option.
During the summer the landscape is more arid and temperatures are higher. If you are one of those who like to enjoy a natural environment with heat, summer is your season. During this season, pay more attention to hydration and protecting yourself from the sun so that you can enjoy a hiking excursion more safely.
Autumn is a magical season in the Font de la Dou because the forests are dyed in warm colours, making the natural park take on a unique beauty. It is also a very pleasant time of year to enjoy quiet walks in the surroundings, as the temperature is mild and it is easier to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
Finally, if you like snow, visit the Font de la Dou in winter. This season of the year is completely different from the others because the landscape can be completely dressed in white. In the same way that we warn you in summer, during the winter it is important to wear appropriate clothing and protection to protect yourself from the cold of this mountainous landscape.
Hiking trails and activities in the area
There are several hiking trails and activities in the area that you can do. One of the most popular is the Route to the Font de la Dou, the route that will take you directly to the source of the Bastareny River.
Another of the most famous routes is the Salt de l’Adou Route. Throughout this natural park there are several hidden waterfalls that are worth visiting and on this short route you can enjoy one of them.
We also recommend that you take the Bullidor de la Llet Route, a route with which you will discover a hot water fountain or the Coll de la Bena Route if you want to enjoy a panoramic point where you can enjoy the views.
As for the activities you can do, they are also very varied. In addition to the routes that you can take while enjoying some of the natural viewpoints, you can also enjoy photography, bird watching or having a picnic in the many recreational areas that you will find in the park.
Flora and fauna in the surroundings
Being in a privileged environment allows the Font de la Dou del Bastareny to enjoy unparalleled flora and fauna.
As for the flora, coniferous forests predominate, especially the Scots pine. In addition to this pine you can also see many beech and oak groves, especially in the wettest areas of the park.
Other outstanding trees in the region are willows or poplars that you can find on the banks of the Bastareny River or, in the higher areas, mountainous vegetation due to the more extreme weather conditions.
As for the fauna of the place, there is no doubt that the park is a paradise for lovers of wildlife and birds. You will be able to observe birds of prey such as the golden eagle or the griffon vulture. This park also has native fauna such as wild boars, roe deer, deer or martens and, in addition, in the highest areas you can also see marmots.
Tips to enjoy the visit
Before visiting the Dou del Bastareny we advise you to familiarize yourself to some extent with the surroundings. This implies trying to know in advance the different routes to know which one to do or to plan the activities much better, as well as the visit to their points of interest.
Think about what you want to do well or the scenery you want to enjoy to choose the right time of year to enjoy an active holiday. When you have decided when to go, book your accommodation in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.
Taking into account the time of year in which you are going to go, prepare the backpack according to the trip. This involves wearing winter or summer clothing, as well as other accessories such as sun protection and suitable footwear. Having a makeshift first aid kit will also help you enjoy the peaceful mountain environment more safely.
Finally, don’t forget to be respectful of the flora and fauna of the place. With your care and that of others, the Dou del Bastareny will continue to be a practically virgin place where you can enjoy a good rest in nature and an outdoor adventure.
An essential destination in nature
In short, a visit to the Dou del Bastareny is one of the best ways to recharge your batteries and disconnect from everyday life.
Enjoy wild nature in its splendor and breathe fresh air away from the pollution of the city. Visiting this lush landscape is good for both the body and the mind, something you can do both in the company of family and friends.
