The cooler mountain temperatures have always drawn people from the big cities, and the streets of Setcases and Camprodon are lined with some attractive summer houses. It can get especially busy during school holidays and weekends when people return to their holiday homes.

There are several options to walk from Setcases, and my personal favourite is the extended version of the Camí de Carboneres that is perhaps best in the spring when the nearby Gra de Fajol is still snow capped. In the summer this hiking paradise offers almost endless possibilities to create a walk.

Seek out the Source of the River Ter near the ski slopes in Vallter 2000 or climb Bastiments (2,881m) to enjoy the views of the sea of mountains. After a hike, I like to wander the narrow streets of Setcases and treat myself to a local herb liquor, ratafia.

Need to know

There are hotels and restaurants in Camprodon and Setcases and there are also a good number of campsites in the area.

There is a bus from Barcelona to Camprodon but you can reach more trails if you have your own transport.

It is best to be prepared for very varied weather when visiting this area. Waterproof jacket and warm fleece are essential even in the summer.