Ruta 12

La Franqueta Horta de Sant Joan Arnes Els Ports We set off from the masia of La Franqueta, an excellent activity center, with two marked routes for hiking, a spring, covered barbecues, tables, informational panels... The Estrets River is calm here under the bridge, and there are pleasant camping spots in various locations in this area. The masia of La Franqueta is the last inhabited farmhouse in the municipality of Horta de Sant Joan. Nearby, 500 meters from La Franqueta, we can visit the Mas de Quiquet, where Pau Picasso stayed. It is currently a branch of the Els Ports Ecomuseum, and next to it is the reconstruction of a charcoal kiln. From La Franqueta we start the route downhill, on an asphalt track, among riparian vegetation and coniferous forests. Near Amador's hut there is another camping area in a large clearing in the forest, well-equipped and with a spring. The path from the masia of La Franqueta continues along the Estrets River, sometimes very close, other times at some height. After passing the Franxo ravine and the ruins of the Mas dels Ateus, we find in another clearing the monument to the forest ranger. From this point a path descends to the river, to a place with a small dam and a pleasant waterfall. Our path gains height above the Estrets River, allowing us to enjoy good views of the valley. Soon we will have to leave the river and the Estrets path to the left. After this point, the path climbs decisively to the Coll d'en Blanco pass, between the Estrets and Canaleta river basins, with steep slopes and a 90-meter elevation difference. At the top, in the meadow of the Mas d'en Blanco, we enjoy a spectacular view of the En Benet rocks. We follow the Pineda or Salt ravine to the Mas de les Eres track, beneath the En Benet Rocks. We find the Font de la Pineda and the Salero fountain, both very nicely built with stone, near the Toll de l'Alemany. The terrain is now less forested due to rocky outcrops, and the slope is acceptable. If after crossing the Salt ravine we leave the bike and continue on foot following the ravine, at 200 m we will suddenly find ourselves at the top of the Ferrassó waterfall. It is a 75-meter vertical water drop, not suitable for those who suffer from vertigo. The spectacle and roar of the water falling onto the rocks below, amid a dense forest, is unforgettable. From here we can follow the main track that would take us to Horta de Sant Joan, or take the path from the Mas de Santa Pau which will lead us to Arnes, passing by the feet of the Moles dels Viarnets.