Explore Catalonia’s natural wonders and historic charm on the Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour. Explore the region’s volcanic past, meander through a medieval town, and unwind by a tranquil lake – all with the guidance of knowledgeable experts. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this eight-hour excursion promises an enriching experience that’ll leave you eager to discover more about the captivating lands of Girona.
Key Points
- This eight-hour tour takes visitors to the medieval town of Besalú, the volcanic zone of La Garrotxa, and the picturesque Banyoles Lake.
- Highlights include guided walks in Besalú, a photo stop at Castellfollit de la Roca, and a hike through the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone.
- The tour is available in Spanish and English, with a small group size of up to 6 participants.
- Participants can enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch in Santa Pau and have the option to go sailing on Banyoles Lake.
- The tour departs from two central locations in Girona and offers convenient drop-off options at the end of the experience.
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Tour Overview
This eight-hour tour, limited to just 6 participants, offers an immersive exploration of Girona’s volcanic landscapes, medieval heritage, and natural wonders.
Priced at €3,483 per person, the tour is available in both Spanish and English.
Convenient meeting points include Carrer dels Calderers, 19 and Carrer d’En Jaume Pons Martí, 30Acc.
Key highlights include guided tours of Besalú, hiking in the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, and a visit to the picturesque Banyoles Lake.
Travelers will also have the option to enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch in Santa Pau.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of Girona’s captivating sights and local flavors.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with guided walks through the historic town of Besalú, known for its well-preserved medieval Jewish heritage, including sampling local snacks.
From there, you will make a photo stop at the picturesque village of Castellfollit de la Roca, perched atop a dramatic basaltic cliff.
Next, the group will explore the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, home to over 40 dormant volcanoes, with a guided 1-hour hike.
Lunch is offered in Santa Pau, an optional extra, before visiting the largest lake in Catalonia, Banyoles Lake, where travelers can enjoy a leisurely walk or optional sailing.
Starting Locations
The tour departs from two central locations in Girona – Carrer dels Calderers, 19 and Carrer d’En Jaume Pons Martí, 30Acc.
These starting points are conveniently located, making it easy for guests to find and join the tour. Participants can meet the group at either of these starting locations, depending on what’s most accessible for them.
The tour guide will be present at both spots to ensure a smooth check-in process and get the group ready for the day’s activities.
With the starting locations being in the heart of Girona, guests can easily reach the meeting points using public transportation or by walking from nearby accommodations.
Tour Stops
The tour visits several notable stops, beginning with a guided tour of Besalú, a town renowned for its well-preserved medieval heritage and Jewish history.
Visitors will enjoy local snacks as they explore this charming town.
Next, the group will stop at Castellfollit de la Roca, a village perched atop a dramatic basaltic cliff, for a photo opportunity and guided tour.
The highlight of the day is a hike through the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, home to over 40 dormant volcanoes.
After lunch in Santa Pau, the tour concludes with a visit to the serene Lake of Banyoles, the largest lake in Catalonia, where guests can take a leisurely walk or optional boat ride.
Drop-off Locations
At the tour’s conclusion, guests are dropped off at either of the two starting locations: Carrer d’En Jaume Pons Martí, 30Acc or Carrer dels Calderers, 19. This ensures a seamless transition for participants, allowing them to either continue their exploration of the area or conveniently return to their accommodations. The drop-off points are strategically chosen to minimize any hassle or inconvenience.
| Drop-Off Locations |
|---|
| Carrer d’En Jaume Pons Martí, 30Acc |
| Carrer dels Calderers, 19 |
| Convenient for continuing exploration |
| Allows for easy return to accommodations |
| Ensures a smooth end to the tour experience |
Tour Experience
Guests embarking on this Girona and surroundings tour can expect to enjoy the region’s rich history, captivating natural landscapes, and local culinary delights.
The first stop is Besalú, where they’ll discover the medieval heritage and learn about the town’s significant Jewish community.
Next, they’ll venture into the La Garrotxa Natural Park, a volcanic wonderland with over 40 dormant volcanoes.
After a photo op at the picturesque village of Castellfollit de la Roca, the tour continues to Santa Pau for an optional traditional Catalonian lunch.
The final destination is the serene Banyoles Lake, where travelers can enjoy a leisurely walk or even an optional sailing excursion.
Important Information
This tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Comfortable shoes and a sun hat are recommended items for participants. The meeting point is located at Plaça Sant Feliu, beside The River Caffe.
The tour takes visitors to explore the natural and cultural highlights of the Girona region. It’s important to note that some of the activities, like hiking in La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, may not be accessible for everyone.
The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, but participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity throughout the day. By packing the right gear and meeting at the designated location, guests can fully enjoy the tour’s attractions and discoveries.
Customer Reviews
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 27 reviews.
Highlights include the comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable local cuisine. Travelers appreciated the small group size, which allowed for more personalized attention and historical insights.
Feedback on the lunch experience was particularly positive, with travelers enjoying the traditional Catalonian fare.
The scenic views and stops, such as the village atop a basaltic cliff, also received high praise.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
No, participants cannot bring their own food on the tour. Meals are included, with an optional lunch stop featuring traditional Catalonian cuisine. The tour provides all necessary food and refreshments as part of the experience.
Is There a Maximum Number of Participants Allowed?
The tour has a maximum group size of 6 participants. This small group size ensures a more personalized and intimate experience for travelers.
Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance as group size is limited to 6 participants. This ensures availability and secures your spot on the tour.
Can the Tour Be Customized to My Preferences?
The tour can be customized to the customer’s preferences, within reason. Travelers should inquire about customization options when booking the tour. The operator give you a personalized experience while maintaining the core itinerary and logistics.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, they may be willing to consider special requests if you inquire directly. It’s best to check with them about any potential discounts or custom arrangements.
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Recap
The Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour offers an enriching exploration of Catalonia’s natural and historical wonders.
Travelers can enjoy guided walks, hikes through volcanic landscapes, and scenic views, culminating in a relaxing visit to Banyoles Lake.
With knowledgeable guides and small group sizes, this tour provides an intimate and unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the beauty and depth of this remarkable region.