Things to see and do in Garrotxa?

Garrotxa is a region of great beauty located in the province of Girona in Catalonia. It is known for its impressive volcanic landscapes and unique natural beauty. In addition to visiting the volcanoes and the Natural Parks of the Volcanic Zone and Alta Garrotxa, there you can visit some of the most beautiful medieval villages in the region, such as Besalú or Castellfollit de la Roca. There are a lot of things to do in Garrotxa, a perfect destination for those who love nature, history and tranquility.

In this post we will tell you everything you need to know before starting your trip to the Garrotxa, an area of Catalonia that you are sure to fall in love with. Below, we describe the essential things to visit in the region and the surrounding area. In addition, we have prepared a list of travel tips, accommodation and restaurants that we think you might like. Read on and we’ll tell you everything you need to know.

What are the best places to visit in Garrotxa?

1. La Fageda d’en Jordà and its hiking trails

Located in the Volcanic Zone Natural Park lies La Fageda d’en Jordà, a forest of centuries-old beech trees growing on volcanic soils. The black soil contrasts with the intense green of the trees, creating a captivating atmosphere with a certain mystery. It is an ideal place for nature and photography lovers, as it offers breathtaking views during all seasons of the year.

There is a parking lot at the entrance to the forest where you can leave your car. And there you’ll find maps showing various routes for all levels.

2. Castellfollit de la Roca, the village on a cliff

Castellfollit de la Roca is a charming village built on top of a basalt cliff. It is located in a impressive and unique landscape. The village still retains its medieval charm thanks to its narrow cobbled streets, stone houses and a Gothic church.

This small village is an ideal destination for nature lovers. In addition to enjoying the panoramic views of the volcanic landscapes of the region, you can go on numerous hiking trails and do outdoor activities in the surrounding area.

3. Olot, the capital of Garrotxa

Although the capital of Garrotxa lost its medieval heritage years ago due to an earthquake, it certainly still retains its charm that makes it worth coming to spend the day. We highlight its historic center, where you will discover several modernist buildings, and various temples such as the church of Sant Esteve in Gothic style. We also recommend you visit the Museo Comarcal de la Garrotxa. There you will learn about the history of the area, and go to the market to taste the local products and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Olot is home to one of the main attractions of tourist interest in Garrotxa. We are speaking of the Montascopa volcano, located next to the old town. In a few minutes you can reach the top to enjoy the views of the city and see the crater that hides there.

4. Croscat volcano

There are many things to do and see in Garrotxa, but nothing like the Croscat Volcano. It is located in the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of the Garrotxa. It is the highest volcanic cone in the Iberian Peninsula and is distinguished by the colorful layers that show the volcanic history of the area. These layers are visible due to a clay mining that stopped years ago. You can leave your car in the Santa Margarida parking lot, which is a half-hour walk from the volcano.

5. Besalú, the town to visit in Garrotxa

The history of the village of Besalú dates back to the 10th century. However, it is really famous for its impressive 12th century Romanesque bridge, which crosses the river Fluvià. We recommend spending a morning in this pretty village strolling along its cobbled streets or along the riverbank and visiting its historic buildings, such as the church of Santa Maria. Other points of interest in Besalú are the Monastery of Sant Pere and the Circusland museum.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What to see around Garrotxa?

1. La Cerdanya

La Cerdanya, a small region located in the Pyrenees bordering France where you can go hiking and do mountain sports. There you can also see beautiful villages like Puigcerdá or Llivía. And if you are a nature lover you cannot miss the tours of the Valle de Llosa and Estanys de la Pera.

During the winter you will also have the opportunity to ski and practice snow sports in its 5 seasons. If you want to know more about this region of breathtaking landscapes visit this post: What to see and do in La Cerdanya?

2. Estany de Banyoles, a perfect day trip

Estanys de Banyoles is the largest lake in the area. It covers an area of about 1.2 square kilometers, and is a perfect destination for a getaway when staying in Garrotxa. The lake is surrounded by an idyllic landscape of hills and forests that are reflected in its waters. It is a great place to take a thousand pictures. There you can also do water activities such as paddleboarding, sailing or fishing, and stroll along the pedestrian promenade built on the shore.

What to see in 1 day in  Garrotxa?

One day is not enough to discover all the charms of this beautiful region of volcanic landscapes, so we recommend to spend at least a long weekend. During this time you can visit the most charming villages in the area like Besalú, Olot or Castellfollit de la Roca. And you can enjoy nature in the Natural Parks of the Volcanic Zone and Alta Garrotxa. There are many hiking trails for all levels, perfect to go with the family.

The area is very well prepared for tourism, and you will find parking areas at the entrances to the forests or natural parks to leave your car. However, keep in mind that the area is not particularly well served by public transport. So, it is best to get around in your own car.

Where and what to eat in Garrotxa

The gastronomy of Garrotxa is rich and varied, and has traditional dishes that reflect the identity and ingredients of the region. Some of the most famous dishes are the Fesols de Santa Pau (white bean stew), Cargols a la llauna (snails), various sausages and mushrooms.

It is a pleasure to eat in their restaurants so we recommend to treat yourself at one of these sites:

• Ca Font: is a simple, unpretentious restaurant serving traditional Catalan food. Breakfast is great and the price is very affordable, about 15€ per person.
• Restaurant l’Hostalet: is a little more sophisticated than the previous one and therefore a little more expensive, but it is worth it for the quality of its ingredients and its exquisite dishes.
• Ca l’Enric: This is a restaurant with a Michelin star where you can try Catalan cuisine from a modern and original perspective. The price can reach 100€, but if you are a lover of gastronomy you can not miss it.

Where to stay in Garrotxa

In Garrotxa you will find a wide selection of rural accommodation for all tastes and budgets. There are campsites, hostels, rural and luxury hotels, apartments and many other options in the area. Of course, it is recommendable to book in advance, especially during the summer months and local events and festivities. Here’s a list of some suggestions:

• Hotel Rural & Spa Mas Prat: is located in the mountain village of Castellar de la Muntanya, on the outskirts of the Garrotxa nature reserve, and is one of the accommodations with the best views of the region. All rooms have their own balcony and there is also a swimming pool and spa. The price per night starts at 190€ and breakfast is included.
• Hotel Mas la Ferreria: Located in La Vall de Bianya, this 4-star rural hotel is a unique place to stay among nature. It has a swimming pool, bar and breakfast is included in the price, which starts at 200€.
• Alberg Restaurant Bellavista: is an economical option to travel to Garrotxa. It is in San Pau and has an outdoor pool, free private parking, garden and shared lounge. It also has a shared kitchen, terrace and bar. The night on a bunk bed costs about 45€.

How to get to Garrotxa?

Moving between the points of interest of Garrotxa without your own vehicle can be a bit complicated, so our recommendation is to go by car. Public transport in the area is not very frequent, so this is the only option if you don’t want to rely on organized excursions.

These are the itineraries we recommend depending on how you travel. If you travel by train or plane you will arrive in Girona or Barcelona. From there you can take a bus, cab or regional train, but the easiest way is to rent a car.

What should I keep in mind before traveling to Garrotxa?

• The best time to travel to Garrotxa is in springtime.
• To move around Garrotxa it is best to take a private vehicle.
• Catalonia is a very touristy region, so booking in advance is recommended.
• Catalan is spoken in the region, but you will be perfectly understood in Spanish.
• Be covered for possible medical emergencies: travel insured
• Because it is a mountainous area, the removals take time.
• Bear in mind that stores close early and are not open on Sundays.

How to organise what to see on your trip to Garrotxa

Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.

• Get inspired by the experiences of other travelers.
• Create your own itinerary and add the suggestions from the app to it.
• Add the stops you are most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest we indicate in this post as a reference).
• Organize your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can be inspired by the routes presented in the post)
• Check the travel budget that the app calculates for you based on your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
• Make any modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip.
• Share your experience. Upload to the app the photos of the places you have visited on your trip and recommend to other travelers things to do in Garrotxa.

If you have doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.

Frequently asked questions about a trip to Garrotxa