Mushroom foraging is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Catalonia. Every autumn, thousands of people prepare their wicker baskets and head into the forests, hoping to find the best edible mushrooms in Catalonia. It’s not just a gastronomic activity: it’s about nature, outdoor exercise, and above all, popular culture.
Each fall season, the same question arises among mushroom enthusiasts: where can you find mushrooms in Catalonia now?
The answer depends on many factors—such as rainfall, altitude, and temperature—but there are areas that are especially well-known, along with practical tips to make the most of your forest outings.
This guide offers information on the most recommended places, the most common species, and the basic precautions to enjoy this tradition safely and responsibly.
Although the answer always depends on rain and temperatures, there are areas that tend to yield good results year after year.
The pine and oak groves of the Prades Mountains are among the best-known spots to find mushrooms in Catalonia. Here you’ll find saffron milk caps, wood blewits, and chanterelles.
The area also has easy, well-marked trails—perfect for those who want to combine sport and nature.
As the season progresses, the Pyrenees become one of the top destinations. In areas like Cerdanya, Alt Urgell, or Ripollès, you can find porcini, black trumpets, and marasmius. According to the mushroom maps created each year by mycological associations, these regions are usually the most productive in October and November.
The humidity and richness of volcanic soil make La Garrotxa a prime area for prized species such as chanterelles and yellowfoot mushrooms.
It’s also a spectacular setting that turns mushroom foraging into a cultural and natural excursion.
Known for porcini and saffron milk caps.
Ideal for those seeking quieter, less crowded routes.
with a strong tradition in local mushroom markets.
Before heading into the forest, it’s important to keep some safety recommendations in mind.
Mushrooms need their spores to spread in order to keep growing. A wicker basket is essential: it preserves the mushrooms better and helps the ecosystem.
A knife allows you to cut them without damaging the base of the mycelium.
There are guides and workshops that teach you how to identify species. The most common are saffron milk caps, porcini, wood blewits, and chanterelles, but there are also toxic varieties that look very similar. The golden rule is: never eat a mushroom if you have any doubts about it.
Some counties where mushrooms are abundant limit the daily amount you can pick (for example, 3 kg per person). In protected areas such as natural parks, you may need a special permit. Respecting these rules is key to ensuring everyone can enjoy the season.
If mushroom poisoning is suspected, the first step is to go to a medical center with a sample of the ingested mushroom.
Mushrooms should never be eaten raw, and home remedies should not be trusted.
Each season brings different species, but here are some of the most sought-after:
Saffron milk cap (Lactarius deliciosus): the classic pine forest mushroom, very present at fairs and markets.
Porcini (Boletus edulis): highly prized, perfect for stews and rice dishes.
Chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius): bright yellow, with a unique fruity aroma.
Wood blewit (Hygrophorus latitabundus): highly valued in stews.
Black trumpet (Craterellus cornucopioides): strong flavor, excellent in sauces.
Recognizing these species is essential for safe enjoyment. That’s why many enthusiasts turn to local mycological associations, which organize educational outings.
The most experienced mushroom hunters often create seasonal maps showing where mushrooms are currently found and which areas are most productive.
There are also mobile apps and specialized forums with real-time updates, but use them cautiously:
A spot full of mushrooms today may be empty tomorrow.
Conditions change weekly depending on rainfall and temperatures.
Personal experience in the field is still the best map.
It’s recommended to head out early, explore the forests around Poblet Monastery, and take advantage of the morning hours, when mushrooms are fresher.
A common mistake is trusting popular myths such as “if animals eat it, it’s edible” or “if it blackens a silver spoon, it’s poisonous.” None of this is reliable.
A few basic tips:
Always compare with updated, trustworthy guides.
Pay attention to details like gills, stem color, smell, and texture.
Avoid collecting very young or overly mature mushrooms, as they can be harder to identify.
Caution is your best ally: if in doubt, leave the mushroom in the forest.
The experience doesn’t end in the forest. Knowing how to handle mushrooms properly is key.
Use a brush or damp cloth to remove dirt.
It’s not recommended to wash them under running water, as they lose aroma and texture.
Fresh mushrooms should be consumed as soon as possible, although some like porcini can be dried or frozen.
Store them in a cool, ventilated place if you’re not cooking them immediately.
In Catalonia, mushrooms are the stars of traditional recipes such as:
Grilled saffron milk caps with garlic and parsley.
Mountain rice with porcini.
Fricandó (veal stew) with black trumpets.
Many of our guests tell us that the best part of the season is combining mushroom hunting with other activities. We recommend:
Duration of the outing: between 2 and 4 hours, ideal for the whole family.
Difficulty level: easy routes around Poblet Forest.
Best season: September to November, peaking after the first autumn rains.
Complementary activities: visiting Poblet Monastery, wine tasting along the Cistercian Route, or enjoying a mushroom-based meal at a local restaurant.
What our visitors value most is being able to return to their rural apartment at Villa Engracia, surrounded by perfect areas to enjoy this tradition, and even try local mushrooms directly in a restaurant—sharing a meal with friends or family in a privileged natural setting.
The answer to where mushrooms can be found in Catalonia always depends on the weather and luck, but what never fails is the thrill of walking into the forest, breathing fresh air, and discovering the treasures nature offers.
At Villa Engracia, located just minutes away from some of the best mushroom areas in Catalonia, we welcome everyone each season who wants to live this tradition with safety, respect, and passion.
Whether you’re an expert or it’s your first outing, autumn always offers the chance to fill your basket with aromas, flavors, and unforgettable memories. And if you want more ideas for this season, we can introduce you to the “Castanyada” or suggest ways to enjoy Halloween in the area.