balma Blava

Balma Blava is one of the more distinctive rock shelters in the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac massif, right above the town of Matadepera. Unlike a true cave, it isn't deep — it's a wide, semi-circular hollow carved by water and wind into the eastern slope of the Sescorts hill. What sets it apart is its colour: while the rest of the massif is built from reddish rock, the exposed stone at the base of this shelter has a distinct bluish tone, which is exactly where the name comes from.

How do you get to Balma Blava?

The site sits inside the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac Natural Park, in the municipality of Matadepera, at roughly 820 metres above sea level. The most common approach starts from the Can Robert farmhouse in Matadepera, following a trail through Sescorts toward Morral del Drac and La Mola de Sant Llorenç, then looping back via the Canal de l'Abella. Alternatively, hikers can reach the top of Sescorts hill from Can Pelags, climbing through the Canal de la Pedrera gully, or from Can Garrigosa through the forest above the farmhouse. The terrain is properly mountainous, with rocky stretches and short climbs, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended — overall the route is considered moderately challenging, manageable with children used to longer walks.

What will you actually see there?

A balma isn't a cave with passages and chambers — it's an open, shallow rock hollow, and its appeal lies precisely in the colour contrast. The rest of the Sant Llorenç massif is made of a characteristic pinkish-red conglomerate, clearly visible on the surrounding peaks and cliff faces. Here, though, erosion has exposed a layer of blue-grey rock, creating an unusual, photogenic effect that's especially striking in low, angled light. The surrounding area is dense with similar geological features — the massif is known for its many balmes and cavities, so most routes combine a visit to several of them in a single outing.

When should you visit?

Spring and autumn offer the best conditions, with milder temperatures on the rocky trails and the clearest views toward nearby peaks like Morral del Drac and La Mola. In summer, the approach can be tiring due to heat and a lack of shade on exposed sections of the path, while winter brings cold at altitude and the risk of slippery rocks after rain. The natural park is open year-round, but it's worth checking the forecast before setting out, since trails in this terrain can turn steep and demanding when visibility is poor.

Who is this hike for?

Balma Blava suits hikers who enjoy pairing a short scenic climb with a geological curiosity — it isn't a mainstream attraction, but rather a reward for those exploring Sant Llorenç del Munt in depth, looking for something beyond a summit view. The area also draws geocachers and local hiking bloggers, a sign that the spot is well known among residents of the Vallès Occidental, even if it remains relatively niche for foreign visitors.

Frequently asked questions

Is Balma Blava a cave you can explore with a guide and lights? No — it's a shallow, open rock hollow, not a cave system. No headlamp or guide is needed, just a hike along the mountain trail to reach it.

How long does it take to reach Balma Blava? It depends on the route chosen, but a typical loop combining Balma Blava with nearby points such as Sescorts, Morral del Drac, and La Mola takes several hours in total, including the approach, exploring the area, and the return.

Is the trail suitable for children? Yes, as long as they're used to longer walks over uneven ground — the path is rocky in places and includes genuine climbing sections.

Where does the name "Blava" (blue) come from? From the colour of the rock exposed at the base of the shelter by water erosion, which contrasts sharply with the reddish tone that dominates the rest of the massif.