La Garrotxa Tour

This mountain bike tour is rated as moderate. It requires good fitness and advanced riding skills, covering approximately 33.6 km with around 739 meters of elevation gain. While some routes in La Garrotxa can be very challenging, this specific tour offers a balanced experience for experienced riders.

The terrain is predominantly volcanic, featuring ancient volcanoes and hardened lava flows. You'll ride through lush forests, along greenways (converted old railway lines), and across unpaved tracks and trails. Expect a mix of surfaces characteristic of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park.

The tour takes you through a landscape rich in natural and historical highlights. You'll pass by the unique La Fageda d'en Jordà beech forest, the impressive Volcà Croscat, and the charming Santa Pau Medieval Village. Other notable spots include the Santa Margarida Chapel in the Volcà de Santa Margarida Crater, Font de la Trinitat of Batet de la Serra, and several historic religious buildings like the Hermitage of Sant Miquel de Sacot, Sant Martí del Corb Chapel, and Sant Miquel del Corb.

The La Garrotxa region is beautiful year-round, but for mountain biking, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant weather. Temperatures are milder, and the natural scenery, especially the beech forest, is particularly vibrant. Summers can be hot, and winters might bring colder temperatures, though the region typically remains accessible.

Yes, the La Garrotxa Tour is designed as a circular route, starting and ending in Olot. This allows you to experience the diverse landscapes and highlights without needing to retrace your steps.

The tour typically starts from Olot, which is a central town in the Garrotxa region. Olot offers various parking options, including public car parks, making it a convenient starting point for your mountain biking adventure.

The La Garrotxa Tour is located within the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on the public trails within the park. However, it's always good practice to check the official park website for any updated regulations or specific access requirements for certain areas before your visit.

While the Natural Park is generally dog-friendly, specific rules may apply to certain areas or protected zones, especially concerning wildlife. It's recommended to keep dogs on a leash, particularly in areas with livestock or high visitor traffic, and to always clean up after your pet. Check local signage for any specific restrictions.

Yes, this route intersects with several other trails. You'll find sections that overlap with paths like the Volta a peu a la Garrotxa, La Jonquera - Sant Adrià del Besós, and the Ruta del Carrilet I: "Girona-Olot". It also crosses parts of the Via Verda Carrilet Olot - Girona and the PirineXus, offering opportunities to extend or modify your ride.

You'll be immersed in the unique volcanic landscape of La Garrotxa, with around 40 extinct volcanoes visible, including the prominent Santa Margarida and Croscat. The tour also features the magical La Fageda d'en Jordà, a unique beech forest growing on lava, and picturesque views of rolling hills and ancient lava flows. The blend of volcanic geology and lush vegetation creates a truly distinctive natural experience.

The route passes through or near charming villages like Santa Pau Medieval Village, where you can find local eateries, cafes, and shops to refuel. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially between villages, but opportunities for refreshments are available.