Montsacopa: An audio tour in the Volcano in the Centre of the City

Discovering Montsacopa: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in the Heart of Olot

If you’re curious about volcanoes but don’t want to spend hours on a guided tour, this Montsacopa audio experience might be just what you’re looking for. Priced at around $5.40 per person, it offers a flexible way to explore the volcanic landscape of La Garrotxa while learning fascinating facts straight from an engaging audio guide. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and details, it sounds like a well-rounded, accessible option for curious travelers wanting a mix of nature, history, and panoramic views.

What stands out to us is the affordability—this tour gives you lifetime access to an app that’s compatible with both Android and iOS, plus offline maps and data, which means no worries about connectivity. We also love the fact that it’s self-guided, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace, pause for photos, or linger as long as you like. But one thing to keep in mind: it’s about a 60-minute walk, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels who enjoy some light hiking.

A potential drawback? Since it’s a self-guided audio tour, it relies on your ability to navigate independently and have your smartphone charged and ready. If you prefer a more structured or guided experience, this might feel a little too freewheeling. But for those who enjoy the independence and flexibility, this could be a real treat. Overall, it seems ideal for independent travelers, nature lovers, or history buffs eager to connect with volcanic geology without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes it accessible for most travelers.
• Self-guided format offers flexibility and independence.
• Stunning panoramic views around Montsacopa volcano are a highlight.
• The audio content provides interesting insights into volcanic activity and local history.
• Suitable for moderate fitness levels—expect about an hour of walking.
• The tour is not dependent on specific times of day, which means you can do it whenever it suits you.

Why This Tour Works

This audio tour is a straightforward way to get a closer look at volcanic features without the need for a large group or a scheduled tour. We love that you can explore at your own pace, stopping when you want to soak in the views or listen to the stories. The accessibility of the app—offline maps and data—means you’re free from worries about signal, especially in more remote parts of the park.

The price is hard to beat. For just over five dollars, you get a detailed narrative that enriches your experience of Montsacopa and the surrounding volcanic zone. The reviews highlight the quality of the guidance, with users describing it as very informative and well-maintained, which adds confidence for anyone hesitant about a self-guided format.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour primarily orbits around Montsacopa, a prominent volcano with a crater that’s now a grassy meadow. The highlight is the climb of just over 100 steps, which, according to reviews, provides beautiful views of Olot and the surrounding volcanic landscape. You’ll reach the summit where two watchtowers offer 360º vistas—a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Along the way, your guide shares stories about the region’s volcanic history, including details on why La Garrotxa has so many volcanoes—more than 40—and the last eruption that occurred approximately 100,000 years ago. You’ll also learn about the lava flows and the vegetable gardens thriving around the volcano, curious features that add a layer of local charm to the landscape.

One of the more intriguing facts is the presence of a church inside the crater—a testament to how the local community has made peace with its volcanic past. The route is designed to be accessible, with the walk taking around an hour, making it a manageable outing for most.

What You’ll See and Learn

At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountain range and the lush valleys of Olot. The guide recounts interesting geological facts, explaining why the volcano here is extinct and what happened during the last eruptions.

Many reviewers mention the well-maintained landscaping and the quality of the guidance—some describing it as “nice guidance via a Voicemap file (English).” The commentary enhances the experience by pointing out key features and hidden details, making the walk more engaging and educational. The landscape itself is described as beautifully landscaped and well kept, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Practical Details

The tour begins at Volcà del Montsacopa, Olot, and lasts roughly an hour, making it perfect for a quick morning or afternoon outing. Since it’s self-guided, there’s no fixed schedule—just download the app, get your smartphone ready, and start whenever you like. The offline access ensures you’re not reliant on Wi-Fi, which is perfect if you’re exploring more remote areas of the park.

You’ll need to bring your smartphone and headphones—the tour is private, so only your group will participate. There are no additional entrance fees included, so be prepared to pay any local museum or attraction fees separately if you choose to extend your visit at other sites.

This experience is not refundable or changeable, so plan ahead and make sure your device is charged before setting out.

Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re someone who enjoys independent exploration and learning about geology and volcanoes without the constraints of a group, this tour suits you. It’s a good choice for adventurous solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an affordable, flexible way to experience Montsacopa. Naturally, those with moderate physical fitness will find the climb manageable, but it’s not suited for anyone with mobility issues.

Nature enthusiasts, history buffs, or travelers wanting a photo-friendly outing will find plenty to love here. Since the tour isn’t overly long, it fits well into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This self-guided audio tour of Montsacopa offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to connect with the volcanic earth that shapes the landscape around Olot. With stunning views, engaging commentary, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, it’s a solid choice for curious travelers keen to learn something new without splurging on more expensive guided options.

The quality of the guidance and the picturesque setting make it worth considering if you’re visiting the area. Just keep in mind that you’ll need a charged device and some basic fitness to enjoy the walk comfortably. It’s less of a guided tour with a person—more of a personal adventure you control.

If you love nature, geology, and panoramic views, and are comfortable with a bit of independent exploring, this tour could be a memorable part of your trip to Olot.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
No, you can start this tour anytime, as long as you’ve downloaded the app and the tour content beforehand. Once purchased, you get lifetime access.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly family-focused, the walk is about an hour and involves moderate physical activity, so older children or teens who are comfortable with light hikes should be fine.

Are there any entrance fees?
The tour price doesn’t include additional entrance tickets to other attractions, so plan for any museum or site fees separately.

Can I do this tour at night?
Yes, since it’s available Monday through Sunday, 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM, you can choose a time that suits you—just remember to have enough light if you go late.

What should I bring?
Your smartphone, headphones, and possibly some water or snacks for the walk. Make sure your device is charged before starting.

Is the app easy to use?
Yes, the VoiceMap app is designed for ease of use, with offline access to audio, maps, and geodata.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 60 minutes to 75 minutes, depending on how long you linger at the viewpoints or read the information.

Is it a guided tour with a person?
No, this is a self-guided, audio-only experience. You control the pace and timing.

In the end, if you’re after a cost-effective, informative, and scenic volcano experience in Olot, this Montsacopa audio tour deserves a spot on your list. It’s a smart way to explore a fascinating landscape without the pressure of scheduled tours, and the views alone make it worth the effort.