Santa Margarida: The Volcano with the Green Heart

The Santa Margarida volcano is one of the most unique natural wonders of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Located a short distance from the city of Olot, this extinct volcano is distinguished by its immense central mouth: a well-preserved crater of 2000 meters in perimeter, at the center of which lies an idyllic Romanesque hermitage bearing the same name as the volcano.

The crater is accessible via a path that cuts through the forests, offering visitors a unique educational experience on volcanic geology while enjoying an exceptional natural environment. The path to the crater is gentle and well-defined, making it suitable for all levels of hikers, including families with children.

Inside the crater, the tranquility of the Santa Margarida hermitage contrasts with the force once displayed by the erupting volcano. There, you’ll find a beautiful meadow to pause and reflect on the interaction between natural elements and human intervention before heading back down towards Santa Pau or connecting with the various routes that include a pass through the Santa Margarida volcano.

On the road linking Olot with Santa Pau, in the Santa Margarida Area, there is a large parking area at the very foot of the volcano, making this place one of the most chosen destinations for family excursions in Garrotxa.