Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park

Located in the Garrotxa region, the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park is one of the most impressive natural areas of the country and stands out as the best example of volcanic landscape of the Iberian Peninsula. With more than 40 inactive volcanic cones and more than 20 lava flows, this park offers a unique combination of nature, geological history and culture.

Characteristics of the park

The park covers an area of about 15,000 hectares and presents a very diverse landscape, where ancient volcanoes, now covered with vegetation. The soils, formed by volcanic ashes, are fertile and favor a rich biodiversity. One of the main attractions of this park is the variety of ecosystems that can be found.

Among the best known volcanoes are the following:

• The Croscat volcano, the largest in the park, known for its conical shape and its old quarry, allows you to see the inner layers of the volcano.
• The volcano of Santa Margarida, with a spectacular crater where there is a small Romanesque hermitage in the middle of a green meadow.
• The Montsacopa volcano, located next to Olot, from where you can contemplate spectacular views of the region.

Hiking Routes in the natural park

The park has more than 25 marked hiking trails of varying difficulty and duration that allow visitors to explore the volcanic landscapes, forests and charming villages of the area. Some of the most outstanding routes are:

1. Volcanoes Route: A circular route that allows you to visit some of the most emblematic volcanoes, such as Croscat and Santa Margarita. It is perfect for those who want to get into the heart of the park.
2. La Fageda d’en Jordà: A beech forest growing on a lava flow from the Croscat Volcano. The landscape is especially captivating during autumn, when the leaves are dyed in yellow and reddish colors.
3. Carrilet Route: An itinerary that can be done by bicycle or on foot, following the old train route that linked Olot with Girona.

Flora and Fauna

The diversity of the natural park is reflected in both its flora and fauna. In addition to oak and beech forests, there are also holm oaks, willows and beeches. As for the fauna, it is possible to find species such as wild boar, badgers, foxes and genets. It is also an excellent place for bird watching.

Cultural Heritage in the natural park

The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park not only stands out for its natural wealth, but also for its cultural heritage. In the region, there are small villages with lots of charm, such as Santa Pau, with its medieval old town, or Olot, known for its artistic tradition and vibrant cultural scene. In Olot you can also visit art museums and enjoy an excellent gastronomy based on local products.

Sustainable Tourism

The natural park has been managed following a model of sustainability, promoting responsible and environmentally friendly tourism. The routes are designed to minimize environmental impact and the use of sustainable means of transportation, such as bicycles or electric vehicles, is encouraged to reduce the carbon footprint of visitors.

The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park is a place where nature and geological history combine to offer a unique and captivating landscape. Whether you like to walk among dormant volcanoes, as if you prefer to stroll through its lush forests or discover its charming villages. This park offers you an unforgettable experience in the middle of nature.

So you know:

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THE PARK OF THE VOLCANIC AREA OF LA GARROTXA!

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Discover the park in the crater space museum here!

More information about the volcanic zone here!