Parque Natural de la Garrotxa
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Garrotxa natural park - by Management
Description
Garrotxa Natural Park covers a 121 km2 area enclosing about forty volcanoes from the Holocene period (which is the current geological epoch). They are still seismically active, but no eruption has occurred for the last 11,000 years. It is located in the north-eastern part of Catalonia, about 45km to the northwest of Girona. The main town is Olot and other villages include the photogenic Castellfollit de la Roca with its position atop a 50m high and 1km long cliff above the Fluvià river, Santa Pau and Sant Joan les Fonts.
Access & Transport
The park is a 45-50km drive from either Figueres (A-26) or Girona (C66 + A-26 or C66 + GI-524 in Banyoles) The following link include several useful information, in particular concerning parking and access for visitors with reduced mobility: https://es.turismegarrotxa.com/territorio-y-naturaleza/parque-natural-y-espacios-protegidos/parque-natural-de-la-zona-volcanica-de-la-garrotxa/
Instructions & Recommendations
Do you research beforehand in terms of itineraries if you are planning on some hiking or stop by one of the parks' tourist offices. And don't forget to wear proper shoes and carry some water. This activity combines well with a visit of Besalú (on the way to/from Girona or Figueres) and/or Santa Maria de Ripoll Monastery.
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity that educates visitors about the local geology and provides an economic influx to the local villages.
Conclusion
The volcanic zone of the Garrotxa NP is a welcome surprise for most and should attract a wide range of travellers with a mix of natural scenery that can be discovered by car or hiking and several charming medieval villages. Can serve as a nice transition between the coastal area and the Pyrenees for those on regional itineraries across Catalonia.
Key positive
Superb opportunity to see some volcanoes
Some good forest hiking trails and picturesque villages
Key negative
None
Suitability
Partially accessible for visitors with reduced mobility: the hiking trails are not suitable but driving around and visiting the villages allow for a proper discovery of the area. The local tourist office can also arrange special access permits when contacted several days in advance.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo