Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour

Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour — A Well-Rounded Day of Nature, History, and Scenic Beauty

If you’re planning a trip to Girona and looking for a way to escape the city’s charm without straying too far, this tour offers a pretty compelling package. It’s designed for those who want to see the quieter side of Catalonia — from dormant volcanoes and medieval villages to tranquil lakes. And honestly, for $164, it provides a healthy dose of varied scenery and cultural insight in just about 8 hours.

What really draws me to this experience is how well it balances nature and heritage. The chance to walk around a volcanic crater and explore ancient towns packed with history is a win, especially when paired with a relaxing stroll along Banyoles Lake. Plus, the small group setting (limited to just six people) means you’ll get a more personalized experience, which is often a big plus when trying to really soak in the sights.

There is a small caveat, though: this tour isn’t suitable for people with limited mobility or wheelchair users. So, if that’s you or your travel companions, you might want to look at other options. Otherwise, it’s a great way to spend a day, especially if you’re into outdoor adventures, medieval architecture, and scenic lakes. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends, this trip caters to those who love a bit of everything.

If this sounds like your kind of day — filled with exploration, historical stories, and stunning views — then this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s an experience that offers more than just sightseeing; it’s about connecting with the landscape and understanding a bit of Catalonia’s quiet, earthy charm.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary combining natural volcanic sites with medieval villages and lakes.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with storytelling and local insights.
• Small group size affords a more intimate and flexible tour experience.
• Good value for a full-day trip that covers multiple highlights.
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers due to walking and uneven terrain.
• Includes bottled water and guided visits, but food is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan accordingly.
• Varied pace with some walking, sightseeing, and scenic stops — suitable for active travelers.
• Ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in Catalonia.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Girona Volcano, Medieval Villages, and Lake Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Carrer dels Calderers, 19, where your guide awaits in a small, friendly group. From there, the journey begins with a 35-minute drive out of Girona, heading toward the volcanic zone in La Garrotxa Natural Park. The transportation is clean and comfortable, setting a good tone for the day ahead.

Exploring Besalú — Medieval Charm and Jewish Heritage

Your first major stop is Besalú, a town renowned for its medieval architecture and Jewish history. This guided visit of about 75 minutes promises to be both educational and scenic. As reviewers have noted, guides like Claudia and Eduardo are fantastic, making the stories come alive and helping you appreciate the significance of sites like the ancient synagogues and cobblestone streets.

One visitor praised the experience, saying, “Claudia and Eduardo were fantastic. We got to see several beautiful sites that would have been difficult for us to visit on our own.” It’s a great stop for anyone who loves history, architecture, or just wandering through picturesque streets lined with stone buildings.

Castellfollit de la Roca — Nature and Photo Opportunities

Next, you’ll stop at Castellfollit de la Roca, perched atop a basaltic cliff. This is a quick 30-minute visit, mainly for photos and a brief guided tour. The views here are truly striking — the town is built on a towering basaltic formation that offers a dramatic backdrop for photos, so don’t forget your camera.

Reviewers highlight how this stop is perfect for capturing memorable shots, especially of the cliff’s sheer drop and the charming houses clinging to the edge. It’s a brief visit, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

More Great Tours Nearby

Hiking in the Volcanic Zone — Up Close with Dormant Giants

The La Garrotxa Natural Park is the heart of the volcanic landscape. You’ll hike for about an hour through this surreal terrain, walking among over 40 dormant volcanoes. While none of these volcanoes are active, their presence has shaped the landscape into a truly unique environment. Imagine walking through an otherworldly scene of gentle hills, craters, and lush greenery that provides a striking contrast to the Mediterranean scenery.

This part of the tour is appreciated by those who enjoy being outdoors. The terrain can be uneven, so good shoes are recommended. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and take in some fresh mountain air while learning about the geological history of the area. As one review pointed out, “We visited the volcanoes and hiked a dormant volcano, which was a highlight for me.”

Santa Pau — Medieval Village Surrounded by Volcanoes

After a hike, you’ll visit Santa Pau, a small town encircled by the volcanic landscape. Your guide will lead a tour that dives into the history and architecture of this quaint village. The local atmosphere here is charming, and the town’s background as a volcanic hub makes it a distinctive stop.

Reviewers mention that the local guide is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the visit both fun and informative. The town feels like a slice of time frozen, with narrow streets, a historic church, and a castle that offers panoramic views.

Relaxing at Banyoles Lake — The Perfect End

The day winds down with a visit to Banyoles Lake, the largest in Catalonia. You can enjoy a 30-minute walk along the shore or opt to sail if you prefer. The lake’s calm waters and surrounding scenery make it an ideal spot to unwind after a day full of exploration.

Multiple reviewers have described this as a “lovely” and “relaxing” way to finish the trip. The lake’s serenity and natural beauty make it a standout feature, especially after a busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Details — What You Need to Know

The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting and ending at the same point in Girona. Price-wise, at $164 per person, it offers a comprehensive experience that includes a guide and bottled water, though food isn’t provided. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat beforehand or afterward.

The tour is operated in Spanish and English, with a small group limit of just six travelers. This makes for a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and engage with the guide.

Considerations and Tips

Since the tour involves some walking over uneven terrain and a hike, comfortable shoes are a must. Also, bring a sun hat and sun protection, especially during the hike and outdoor stops. Note that this experience isn’t recommended for people with limited mobility or wheelchair users, as some sites and walking paths may be challenging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone curious about Catalonia’s volcanic landscape and medieval towns. It’s perfect if you like a mix of gentle hikes, cultural stories, and scenic photo stops. If you’re traveling with mobility issues, you might want to look for alternative options, but otherwise, this tour offers a great way to get a well-rounded view of the Girona region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally outdoors and involves some walking, it isn’t specifically tailored for kids. Consider your children’s comfort with longer walks and outdoor activities when deciding.

How much walking is involved?
There’s some walking at each stop, including a hike in the volcanic zone that lasts about an hour. The terrain can be uneven, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, food isn’t included in the price. You may want to bring snacks or plan to have lunch at one of the stops or back in Girona.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the start. This flexibility is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.

What languages are available?
The tour operates in Spanish and English, accommodating most international travelers.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, roughly 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s the group size?
Limited to just 6 participants, which allows for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the same point in Girona, specifically at Plaça Sant Feliu.

Is it a good value for the price?
Considering the multiple stops, guided explanations, and scenic variety, many reviews find it to be quite good value for a full-day adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Girona tour offers a thoughtful mix of geological wonder, medieval charm, and lakeside tranquility. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking an active day that combines history, nature, and stunning scenery without the hassle of planning each stop individually. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, along with the small group setting, make it a more intimate and engaging experience.

If your idea of a perfect day includes wandering through ancient villages, hiking among dormant volcanoes, and ending with a peaceful lakeside walk, then this trip delivers on all counts. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy being outdoors and want to learn about lesser-known corners of Catalonia — all in one memorable day.

Remember: Bring good shoes, sun protection, and an appetite for discovery. With just enough time to see the highlights and explore the landscapes, this tour hits a nice sweet spot between adventure and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: