Barcelona and the rest of Catalonia are being urged to take mountain safety more seriously after a rise in rescues in Montserrat. The Catalan government says many incidents could be avoided with better planning, the right equipment and a realistic view of each route.
According to the Generalitat Firefighters, popular areas such as Montserrat see dozens of interventions each year. In 2025, Montserrat recorded 97 Firefighter operations, with more than half linked to accidents. The government advises hikers to check the weather, plan routes in detail and carry enough water.
Officials say the main risk is going beyond a group’s physical or technical ability. They recommend choosing routes that match the skill level of everyone involved, and avoiding improvisation once a walk or climb has started. Planning should include the route length, elevation gain, escape points and the real difficulty of the terrain.
Weather checks are also part of the advice. Sudden changes can create problems, especially in high mountain areas or on steep ground. The government also says hikers should plan to finish before dark, since many incidents in Montserrat happen in the afternoon, when fatigue and fading light can make conditions worse.
Proper gear remains essential. Hikers are advised to wear suitable footwear, carry enough water, bring clothing for changing temperatures and keep a mobile phone charged. It is also important to follow the path carefully, especially where trails split or are poorly marked. For more on local reporting across the region, see our news coverage.
The advice also points to Pedraforca, where the terrain brings its own risks. Its complex topography and unstable scree slopes increase the chance of falls, so officials say routes should always match a person’s technical and physical level. They also recommend using reliable maps or guides, and, where needed, information points at the Natural Park or specialist guiding services.
If an emergency happens, the protocol is to call 112, stay calm and give the exact location. The government says clear location details can reduce rescue times, especially in hard-to-reach areas. More information on mountain safety is available from the Catalan Department of the Interior and the Generalitat Firefighters.