Iron and Coal Greenway

Vía Verde del Ferro i del Carbó (Iron and Coal Greenway)

The Vía Verde del Ferro i del Carbó (in English, Iron and Coal Greenway) is a cycling and pedestrian route that follows the old railway line between Ripoll and Ogassa, in the Ripollès region (Girona province, Catalonia, Spain). It is part of the Spanish Greenways network and is characterized by its historical and industrial value.

Key Data

• Length: Approximately 12 km

• Start and End: Ripoll – Ogassa

• Elevation Gain: Moderate (about 260 m uphill)

• Use: Hiking and cycling

• Surface Type: Asphalt and compacted earth

Origin and Historical Route

The route occupies the old mining railway line built in the late 19th century to transport coal from the Ogassa mines to Ripoll station, where it connected with the main line to Barcelona. The railway ceased operations in the 1960s and was rehabilitated as a greenway in the late 20th century, preserving tunnels, bridges, and original sections.

Landscape and Heritage

The itinerary crosses a mid-mountain environment, following the Freser River valley and offering views of Pyrenean forests, pastures, and small rural villages. Among its attractions are the Sanctuary of Sant Joan de les Abadesses, remains of mining facilities, and railway structures such as tunnels and stone viaducts.

Activities and Connection

The greenway is used for leisure activities, environmental education, and cultural tourism. It is integrated into the Iron and Coal Route, which links to other local paths and the Catalan Pyrenees, promoting ecotourism and sustainable mobility in the Ripollès. The route is suitable for all ages and features signage and support infrastructure.