Volcanoses And Other Wonderful Places In Olot
Garrotxa is a county in Girona; it is one of the most interesting cities in the northern region of Spain, called Catalunia. In 1985, Garroxta became a protected natural park, and the housing conditions transformed it into one of the most popular weekend destinations for those who like to walk a lot; so, it is better to avoid it on Sundays. The departure point is Olot where you are within walking distance from the beech forests of Jorda. These forests and other nice places may transform your holiday into a lovely one.
What is it famous for?
In Olot you can admire the most important and wonderful volcanic landscapes in Spain. It is, in some ways, illusory. During the last eruption, about 10 000 years ago, the 120 square kilometers of valleys, plateaus, rivers and volcanoes were transformed into a well-irrigated farmland and pastures.
Craters can be seen best from the top of the volcanoes and the valley walls reveal spectacular basalt layers, created by torrents of lava. Next to the beech forests of Jorda are the Croscat and Santa Margarita volcanoes. You can reach the latter via a very vertical path; an abbey is housed under the crater. Croscat, dating back over 17 000 years, can be reached via a less tiring path, passing portions of fissured rock and lava blocks.
The forest in Garroxta provides shelter for martens, badgers , wild boars and about 143 bird species. There are also three amazing villages: Castellofollit de la Roca is perched on a wall of 60 metres, made of prisms and layers of basalt eroded by lava, next to the Flavia River.
Go to the east to explore Besalu, an amazing medieval village where a unique Roman bridge and four churches stand in front of a Jewish district. In Santa Pau, walk through cobbled streets toward the main square flanked by Gothic arches, where a cattle market was once held. Dominating the whole village,a castle that was built in the XIth century and belonged to a baron rises; initially it was a Dominican monastery.
Why choose Garroxta for your holiday?
Although it is a region known for its volcanoes, there are also other places, either historical or modern, to visit while in Girona, or more exactly in Garroxta. Enjoy your stay here and spend a lovely time admiring the beauty of Spain!