El Croscat Volcano It is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa. This volcano, known for its peculiar horseshoe shape and for being the youngest in the Iberian Peninsula, offers a natural setting full of geological history and scenic beauty. From its grading visible, the result of old mining extractions, up to their signposted routes, Croscat has become a point of interest for nature and geology lovers.
Located between the municipalities of Olot y Santa PauThis volcanic cone is a true natural treasure. Although it is no longer active, its unique characteristics, including its lava flows of more than six kilometres and its internal exposure due to extraction, make it a must-see place, either on foot or enjoying aerial views from a hot air balloon.
Main features of the Croscat Volcano
The Croscat Volcano stands out for being of type Strombolian, which means that its eruptions were of a moderately explosive nature. With its Meters 160, is the largest volcanic cone in the Iberian Peninsula. Its last eruption took place approximately 11.500 years, making it one of the newest in the region.
One of its most striking features is its horseshoe-shaped crater, the result of mining activity carried out during 25 yearsThese extractions revealed the internal structure, allowing us to observe different layers and colours caused by chemical reactions in the volcanic rocks.
Routes and access for visitors
The Croscat has several itineraries for visitors who wish to explore their surroundings. The best known is the 15 itinerary, which begins in the parking lot of the Santa Margarida area. This tour, of about 1,9 km y 50 minutes duration, crosses paths that border the slope of the volcano until reaching the gredales.
Another popular itinerary is the 1 itinerary, which connects the Fageda d'en Jordà with the volcano. This tour of 11 kilometers allows you to appreciate the rich landscape of the area, including the beech forests and lava flows that formed the basis of the Natural Park.
Visitors should be aware of the park regulations, as access by motor vehicles is restricted, with the exception of people with reduced mobility who have prior authorization. Organized groups are also requested to book their visits in advance and be accompanied by authorized guides.
Historical aspects and restoration
Throughout the 20th century, Croscat was intensively exploited for the extraction of volcanic materialsThis activity had a negative impact on both the landscape and the ecosystem, leading to social unrest in the 1970s. The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park was created in 1982, allowing this unique environment to be protected and preserved.
In 1995, a survey was carried out restoration initiative in the volcanic mudflats. This action not only minimized the landscape impact, but also earned a recognized FAD award of decorative arts design. Today, the area is a Museum Space which allows visitors to learn about the formation and evolution of the Croscat.
Services and activities for visitors
The Croscat volcano has several facilities and specific designed to enhance the visitor experience. These include the Can Passavent Information Centre, which has a permanent exhibition on the volcano and its surroundings. This centre is open every day from 10:00 - 16:00.
In addition, the performance of self-guided tours and educational activities ideal for families and schoolchildren. For the more adventurous, local companies offer hot air balloon flights, which provide a spectacular view of the crater and its surroundings.
Recommendations and tips for the visit
If you plan to visit the Croscat Volcano, it is important to follow certain recommendations to ensure a safe and environmentally friendly experience:
- Respect the marked trails and do not leave the marked routes.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you hike on hot days.
- Follow the park rules and avoid leaving waste in the area.
- Please book in advance if you are going in an organized group.
Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views offered by this unique corner of La Garrotxa. From the gredales to the aerial views, every corner of Croscat will surprise you with its beauty and history.
Discovering the Croscat Volcano is an experience that combines nature, history and geological knowledge. This incredible place not only offers dreamlike landscapes, but also a lesson about the human impact on ecosystems and the importance of conservation. Without a doubt, Croscat and its surroundings are a jewel of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park.