There are lands that hold stories beneath your feet. In Garrotxa, the volcanic gravel crunches under your soles as you walk along paths that were once lava. This slow journey, among dormant volcanoes and living villages, is an invitation to look, listen and let yourself be surprised by the volcanic character of our region.
From Santa Pau, the gentle silhouette of the volcanoes draws a new horizon before you. Here begins your discovery, with a route that connects three essential sites: the Santa Margarida volcano, with a hermitage at the heart of its crater; the Croscat volcano, with its giant scar revealing the inner structure of a volcano; and the Fageda d’en Jordà, where light filters softly through the beech forest. With every step, the crunch of volcanic gravel, the scent of damp earth and moss, and the song of a robin remind you that this landscape is a privilege. If you feel like it, you can also visit Santa Pau or explore the forest by horse-drawn carriage. You’ll feel truly unique!
If you start your day with a hot air balloon flight, you’ll understand why this land pulses with such energy. From above, the succession of volcanic cones, forests and fields creates a landscape that seems hand-painted. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, head to Sant Joan les Fonts and discover the lava flows following itinerary 16 of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Here, the basalt formations reveal a fascinating geological story, where shadows and impossible shapes turn nature into petrified memory.
The third day is for savouring the city of Olot. Gently climb to the top of the Montsacopa volcano, right in the heart of the city. From there, the views stretch across much of the region. Climb the old watchtowers to see even further and step into the crater to feel the volcano from within.
Olot invites you to wander. Among charming shops, the lively atmosphere of the Plaça Mercat and the smell of freshly baked cakes and pastries, every corner tastes like local life. A full immersion in the volcanic world at Espai Cràter is a must, where you’ll discover how this landscape has shaped both the territory and its people.
At lunchtime, sit down and enjoy the flavours of Volcanic Cuisine: Olot potatoes, shredded sausage with Santa Pau beans (PDO), bread with tomato and shepherd’s cheese. In the afternoon, visit the Basilica of Sant Esteve, where an unexpected surprise awaits: an original painting by El Greco.
And if you’d like to take a piece of Garrotxa home with you, stop by the Olot Tourist Office and choose your souvenir.
The Carrilet greenway will lead you, almost without noticing, to the Parc de Pedra Tosca in Les Preses, a place where nature and traditional architecture quietly coexist. Among cultivated terraces and dry-stone walls, you’ll discover a landscape shaped with patience, respect and rural wisdom. Here, volcanic stone blends seamlessly with the contemporary architecture of the renowned RCR architects, creating a route that is as peaceful as it is inspiring.
In the afternoon, the climb to the Xenacs viewpoint, following the yellow signs of the Itinerànnia trail network, will reward you with unique views. Light plays across the soft shapes of the volcanoes and, with a bit of luck, a bird may accompany you with its song. A moment to breathe deeply, to let yourself be filled… and to start imagining the flavours awaiting you at the table. Time for dinner — because that’s also part of the journey!
The last day takes you to Castellfollit de la Roca, a village that seems to defy gravity, perched on an impressive basalt cliff. Still within the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, this place is a living example of how the volcanic landscape continues to shape the essence of the territory. Walking along the main street, you’ll discover corners that open onto dizzying views — small windows onto the landscape you’ve explored over the past days.
If you do it with a local guide, you’ll learn to read the shapes of the land, the erosion patterns, the layers of basalt… small details that reveal great geological stories. And while your shoes still carry the dust of volcanic paths, you may realise that you no longer see Garrotxa with the same eyes.
Panoramic views from natural viewpoints such as Montsacopa, Colltort Castle or the Xenacs viewpoint. If you want to see Garrotxa in motion, come and visit us during the Sismògraf Festival in April.
And always stay curious: ask, explore and let yourself be guided at the tourist offices.
© Turisme Garrotxa
