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Garrotxa Volcanic Zone

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Garrotxa Volcanic Zone (Spain)

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The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone, located in the Catalan province of Girona, is widely recognized as the most significant and best-preserved volcanic landscape on the Iberian Peninsula. This extensive natural reserve encompasses an area featuring approximately 40 dormant volcanic cones and more than 20 solidified lava flows, all blanketed by a fertile layer of dark volcanic ash. Although the last eruption occurred around 11,000 years ago, the geological structure of the region remains remarkably intact. The unique combination of nutrient-rich volcanic soil and a damp, rainy microclimate has fostered an exceptionally lush and dense vegetation rarely seen in the Mediterranean. A major highlight is the Fageda d'en Jordà, a fairy-tale beech forest growing directly atop the undulating lava flow of the Croscat volcano. With its twisted trees and moss-draped lava boulders, the forest creates a surreal, enchanting environment. Another key attraction is the Santa Margarida volcano, which features a wide crater hiding a tiny, isolated Romanesque hermitage at its very center.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C5691216212323191596
Rain mm433851605736354052765733

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The area is typically accessed by car via roads leading to Olot, the primary gateway. Public transport connections by bus are usually available from major Catalan cities.
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Best season
Autumn is considered the best time to visit when beech forests display lively colors, though spring features pleasant weather. Summer months can be quite warm in this region.
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Terrain & paths
Trails consist of well-marked dirt paths and loose volcanic soil, featuring gentle slopes. Certain routes may include uneven ground or exposed tree roots in forested areas.
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What to bring
Comfortable hiking shoes with reliable grip are essential for navigating unpaved paths. Visitors should always carry a daypack with enough water and sun protection.
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Parking
Designated parking is available near main trailheads and popular craters, often requiring a fee. During busy weekends, arriving early is highly advisable to secure a spot.
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Safety
Remain on marked trails to protect the delicate environment and avoid losing your way. Pay attention to trip hazards on uneven paths and ensure you stay properly hydrated.
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Time needed
A typical visit ranges from a half-day crater exploration to a full day combining multiple trails. Allocating three to six hours allows for a very comfortable viewing pace.

Geography

Coordinates
42.15220, 2.55050

Facts

  • The reserve safeguards 40 dormant volcanic cones and over 20 basaltic lava flows
  • The region's most recent volcanic eruption took place roughly 11,000 years ago
  • The Croscat volcano boasts the largest volcanic cone on the Iberian Peninsula
  • The magical Fageda d'en Jordà beech forest flourishes entirely on a lava flow
  • A small Romanesque hermitage is situated perfectly in the center of a crater
  • The nutrient-dense volcanic soil supports surprisingly lush broadleaf forests
  • The region was officially declared a protected Natural Park in the year 1982

Explore nearby

Notable places around

OlotOlot6 km · NWExplore →
BesalúBesalú13 km · NEExplore →
BanyolesBanyoles18 km · EExplore →
Bardera FarmBardera Farm23 km · NWExplore →
TorellóTorelló26 km · SWExplore →
ManlleuManlleu28 km · SWExplore →
GironaGirona29 km · SEExplore →
Santa Coloma de FarnersSanta Coloma de Farners33 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Garrotxa Volcanic Zone (7)

Pedra del Diable🏺 historical

A prehistoric megalithic site located in the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone.

Castell de Santa Pau🏰 castle

A medieval castle located in the heart of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone.

Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park🌿 nature

A nature reserve featuring numerous extinct volcanic cones in Catalonia.

Castell de Colltort🏰 castle

The ruins of a former castle located in the Garrotxa volcanic landscape.

Menhir de Santa Margarida🏺 historical

Prehistoric standing stone in the volcanic landscape of Garrotxa.

Reserva natural parcial de la Fageda d'en Jordà🌿 nature

A forested area situated on the lava flow of the Croscat volcano.

Reserva natural parcial del volcà Croscat🌿 nature

A nature reserve encompassing one of the youngest volcanoes in the region.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Are the volcanoes still active?
No, they are considered extinct, although the region is still geologically active.
Which volcano is the most famous?
Croscat and Santa Margarida, which has a chapel inside its crater.
Are there museums there?
In Olot, you can find the interesting Volcano Museum (Museu dels Volcans).
Can you hike through the beech forests?
Yes, the 'Fageda d'en Jordà' is a magical forest on lava soil.
Are there hot air balloon flights?
Yes, flights over the volcanic landscape are a very popular experience.
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone: where is it located?
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone is located in Galicia, Spain.
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pedra del Diable, Castell de Santa Pau, Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park.
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone: why is it worth visiting?
The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone, located in the Catalan province of Girona, is widely recognized as the most significant and best-preserved volcanic landscape on the Iberian Peninsula.
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History & landmarks

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