SORT MALMERCAT AND ARCALÍS CASTLE
This 24.4 km (14.5 mi) route, partially circular, runs through the municipalities of Sort and Soriguera, in the southernmost part of the Pyrenean region of Pallars Sobirà. We begin in Sort, the regional capital, follow the course of the Noguera Pallaresa River south, and ascend to Malmercat. After admiring this small village, we descend to Baro and then climb to Arcalís. From here, we continue gaining altitude to the ruins of the castle of the same name, an exceptional vantage point overlooking Baix Pallars and the territories of the former barony of Estac.
The route is demanding due to the elevation change and the distance that must be covered, and although it is signposted, it is advisable to pay attention to the orientation, especially at intersections.
This route allows us to discover Malmercat and Arcalís, two of the many villages scattered across the mountain slopes of the Noguera Pallaresa valley, in the southern part of Pallars Sobirà. We walk along ancient historical paths, with cobbled sections and dry-stone walls, that once connected the villages of this magical and enchanting Pyrenean region.
The best part of the route:
Discover the picturesque villages of Malmercat and Arcalís.
Visit the ruins of the Arcalís castle, in the old barony of Estac.
Let yourself be captivated by the landscape and natural richness of Pallars Sobirà.
Explore the old bridle paths that linked the villages of Pallars.
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Duration:
Full day.
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Total effective time (without stops):
7:30 h in total: 2:05 h from Sort to Malmercat, 1:45 h from Malmercat to Arcalís, 0:30 h from Arcalís to the Arcalís castle and 3:10h to return from the castle to Sort along the valley floor.
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Cumulative elevation gain:
1,220 m
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Difficulty:
Remarkable.
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Season:
All year round.
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Material:
Nothing special.
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Cartography:
1. Parc Natural de l'Alt Pirineu. 1:50,000. Alpina Publishing.
2. Topographic base of Catalonia 1:25,000. Cartographic and Geological Institute of Catalonia (ICGC).
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Notes:
The trail is marked with yellow paint and vertical poles at intersections. Be careful with your orientation, as the trail can be uneven at times. From Baro, you can return to Sort by bus (schedules at www.alsa.es).
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How to get there by car:
The starting point for the excursion is Hotel Les Brases in Sort. We arrive in Sort via the C-13 highway. Hotel Les Brases is located on the C-13 highway, just north of the town. There is free parking in front of the hotel.