Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour

The Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour offers an immersive experience for visitors to explore the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage. From the volcanic landscapes of La Garrotxa to the medieval charm of Besalú and the serene beauty of Banyoles Lake, this tour promises an engaging journey that delves into the diverse wonders of Girona. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply seeking a memorable day out, this tour has something to captivate every traveler.

Key Points

• This 8-hour small-group tour explores the natural and cultural landscapes of the Girona region, including medieval Besalú, the volcanic La Garrotxa area, and Lake Banyoles.

• The tour includes guided visits to Besalú’s medieval and Jewish heritage, Castellfollit de la Roca’s volcanic landscape, and the natural park in La Garrotxa.

• Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour and lunch in the medieval town of Santa Pau.

• The tour offers a comfortable van for transportation and is available in Spanish and English with a maximum of 6 participants.

• Reviewers have praised the tour’s knowledgeable guides, variety of sites, and high-quality inclusions, though it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour" is priced from Kč 3,627 per person and lasts 8 hours.

It’s a small-group tour limited to 6 participants and offered in Spanish and English.

Booking is available with a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour starts from Carrer dels Calderers, 19 and includes visits to Besalú, Castellfollit de la Roca, La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, Santa Pau, and Lake of Banyoles.

Transportation is provided in a clean and comfortable van.

Itinerary Highlights

Beginning with the visit to Besalú, the tour focuses on the medieval and Jewish heritage of this picturesque town, allotting 75 minutes for a guided tour. Next, the group stops at Castellfollit de la Roca for a 30-minute photo opportunity and guided tour of this town perched atop a dramatic volcanic cliff. Venturing into the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, hikers spend an hour exploring dormant volcanoes. The tour then visits Santa Pau, where guests enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch and guided tour. Finally, the itinerary includes a 30-minute walk or optional sailing around the Lake of Banyoles.

| Stop | Duration |

| — | — |

| Besalú | 75 min |

| Castellfollit de la Roca | 30 min |

| La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park | 1 hour |

| Santa Pau (lunch and guided visit) | 2 hours |

| Lake of Banyoles | 30 min |

Tour Features

This tour offers an immersive exploration of the diverse natural and cultural landscapes of the Girona region.

Guests can discover over 40 dormant volcanoes in the stunning pre-Pyrenees terrain. They’ll also visit a medieval hermitage nestled within a volcanic crater, blending history and geology.

Discover over 40 dormant volcanoes in the stunning pre-Pyrenees terrain and visit a medieval hermitage nestled within a volcanic crater.

The experience includes guided tours to uncover local culture and cuisine, from the medieval town of Besalú to the picturesque village of Santa Pau.

Transportation is provided in a comfortable van, allowing guests to focus on the sights and experiences without the hassle of driving.

Customer Experience and Reviews

Based on the 31 reviews, customers have given this tour an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Guests praised the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, Claudia and Eduardo. They were pleased with the variety of sites visited and the ease of exploration. The quality of the included lunch and transportation also received high marks.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Customers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a sun hat.

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Important Information

The Girona tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Guests are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a sun hat.

The meeting point for the tour is Plaça Sant Feliu, beside The River Caffe, where the guide will meet participants.

The tour explores over 40 dormant volcanoes in the pre-Pyrenees region, visiting a medieval hermitage within a volcanic crater, and experiencing local culture and cuisine through guided tours and lunch.

With a variety of sites to explore, the tour provides an engaging and immersive experience for those able to participate fully.

Exploring the Volcanic Zone

As visitors venture into the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, they’ll be met with a landscape unlike any other in the region. Over 40 dormant volcanoes dot the landscape, providing a unique opportunity to explore a volcanic terrain. Hikers can marvel at the ancient volcanic craters, some even home to medieval hermitages. The volcanic soil also supports a diverse ecosystem, with lush forests and meadows teeming with wildlife. Exploring this dynamic landscape is a true highlight of the tour, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.

| Volcano Crater | Eruption History | Volcanic Activity |

| — | — | — |

| Santa Margarida | Last eruption 11,000 years ago | Considered extinct |

| Croscat | Last eruption 11,500 years ago | Considered dormant |

| Montsacopa | Last eruption 13,000 years ago | Considered dormant |

Discovering Besalú’s Medieval Heritage

What makes Besalú so captivating is its remarkably well-preserved medieval heritage. This historic town boasts a stunning 12th-century Romanesque bridge, intricate stone architecture, and remnants of its former Jewish quarter.

The guided tour explores the town’s winding streets, highlighting key landmarks like the Church of Sant Vicenç and the Mikveh, an ancient ritual Jewish bath.

Visitors gain insight into Besalú’s rich past, learning about its strategic location and the important role it played in medieval Catalonia.

With its authentic medieval charm, Besalú offers a glimpse into a bygone era, transporting visitors back in time.

Enjoying Banyoles Lake and Its Surroundings

After exploring the medieval charm of Besalú, the tour moves on to the serene Banyoles Lake and its captivating surroundings. Guests have the option to either walk along the lakeshore or enjoy a relaxing sailboat ride. The lake is known for its natural beauty, with the towering pre-Pyrenees mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Visitors can also learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife during the guided visit.

| Activity | Duration | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Walk along Banyoles Lake | 30 minutes | Scenic views, peaceful atmosphere |

| Sailboat ride | 30 minutes | Unique perspective of the lake and surroundings |

| Guided visit | 30 minutes | Learning about the local ecology and wildlife |

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Any Food or Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes a 1.5-hour lunch during the visit to Santa Pau. However, no other food or drinks are provided as part of the tour. Participants should be prepared to purchase their own refreshments as needed.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Customers can contact the tour provider to discuss specific needs and preferences to create a tailored experience. Private tours may have different pricing and logistics compared to the standard offering.

Are There Any Special Discounts Available for Certain Groups?

Yes, some tour operators offer special discounts for certain groups like students, seniors, or families. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour to see if they qualify.

How Far in Advance Should the Tour Be Booked?

The tour can be booked at any time, but it’s recommended to reserve in advance, as space is limited. Customers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour.

What Happens if the Weather Is Not Favorable During the Tour?

If the weather is unfavorable, the tour operator will make alternate arrangements to ensure guests can still enjoy the highlights. They’ll work to provide a fulfilling experience despite the conditions.

The Sum Up

The Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the region’s diverse cultural and natural wonders. Travelers can discover the medieval and Jewish heritage of Besalú, marvel at the stunning volcanic landscapes, and enjoy the serene beauty of Banyoles Lake. With guided tours, local cuisine, and personalized attention, this tour promises an engaging and enriching journey through the Girona area.

You can check availability for your dates here: