With Vallès Occidental, Vallès Oriental
forms a large natural region in the pre-coastal
depression. It stretches from the southern slopes
of Montseny (Matagalls,
Turó de l'Home, Pla de la Calma), a large
natural park, and the Bertí
heights, to the Besòs
valley (formed by the Mogent and Congost).
In the eastern sector rises the northern slope of
the pre-coastal range (Montnegre and Corredor ranges,
also a natural park). The landscape is varied and
full of beautiful spots. Within the country and
diocese of Barcelona, the most important towns in
the area historically were
Caldes de Montbui,
the capital of a magistrature, and Granollers,
a strategically located market centre. The economy
had been based on agriculture, with many farmhouses
and country villages, but its proximity to Barcelona
and the main highways promoted industrial development,
especially in the areas close to the city. In the
most distant rural areas, large residential and summer
resort towns have sprung up, with excellent facilities
for walking and sports (golf and hang-gliding, among
others).
