Font Groga

## Overview Font Groga is a public drinking spring nestled within the Parc Natural de la Serra de Collserola, the expansive green lung that borders Barcelona, Spain. The Serra de Collserola natural park covers over 8,000 hectares of Mediterranean woodland, and its network of historic fonts (springs) has served hikers, locals, and pilgrims for centuries. Font Groga — whose name translates to "Yellow Spring" in Catalan, likely a reference to the mineral-tinted color of the water or the surrounding stone — is one of the most well-known springs in the park. The Collserola massif is composed largely of slate, limestone, and other sedimentary formations that naturally filter rainwater as it percolates through the hillside, feeding dozens of small springs throughout the range. Font Groga sits at approximately 41.4314°N, 2.1218°E, in a shaded, wooded area that has long been a popular rest stop along the park's trail network. The spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by visitors to the park, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary with seasonal rainfall and other environmental factors. ## Directions 1. From Barcelona, head toward the Collserola Natural Park. A common starting point is the Carretera de les Aigües, a flat, panoramic trail that runs along the Barcelona-facing slope of the Collserola ridge. 2. Font Groga can also be accessed from the Vallvidrera neighborhood or from the Baixador de Vallvidrera train station (FGC line S1/S2). 3. From Baixador de Vallvidrera, follow signposted trails heading uphill into the park. Font Groga is a well-known landmark and is typically indicated on park trail maps and signposts. 4. The GPS coordinates (41.4314, 2.1218) can be used with a hiking app such as Wikiloc or AllTrails to navigate directly to the spring. 5. The area around Font Groga includes a clearing that is popular for picnics and gatherings, making it relatively easy to identify once you are nearby. ## What to Expect Font Groga is set in a tranquil, shaded clearing surrounded by typical Mediterranean vegetation — Aleppo pines, holm oaks, and dense undergrowth. The spring itself features a traditional stone spout, and the area around it has historically served as a gathering point for hikers and families enjoying the park. The spring is accessible year-round, though water flow may diminish during the dry summer months typical of the Mediterranean climate. The surrounding trails range from easy to moderate, and the area is well-frequented on weekends. Visitors have historically reported the water to be refreshing, though it is always wise to check local advisories regarding spring water quality in the Collserola park, as conditions can change. The clearing at Font Groga is one of the larger open spaces in the park and is a popular spot for outdoor events, picnics, and rest stops on longer hikes through the Collserola range. The combination of shade, water, and open space makes it a natural focal point for any visit to this remarkable urban natural park.