The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Besalú

For breathtaking panoramic views, Mare de Déu del Mont Summit stands out. From its 1,124-meter altitude, you can see across the Empordà plain, Alta Garrotxa, and the southern slopes of the Pyrenees. Another excellent spot is View of Lake Banyoles from Puig Clarà, which offers stunning vistas of Lake Banyoles and its surrounding plain.

While specific family-friendly peaks aren't highlighted, the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, close to Besalú, offers numerous easy to moderate walks through unique volcanic landscapes and beech forests. These trails are generally suitable for families looking to explore nature without extreme difficulty.

You'll encounter a diverse landscape. This includes the foothills of the Pyrenees, offering high-altitude views, and the distinctive Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park with its dormant volcanoes and ancient lava flows. You can also find serene lakes, such as Lake Banyoles, visible from peaks like Puig de les Gitanes.

The Sanctuary of Mare de Déu del Mont and Jacint Verdaguer Statue is a significant historical and religious site located at the summit of Mare de Déu del Mont. Within the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, you can find a medieval hermitage inside the crater of the Santa Margarida volcano, and the picturesque village of Castellfollit de la Roca perched on a basaltic cliff.

The region around Besalú is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate routes like the one to Sant Aniol d'Aguja which features waterfalls. There are also options for running and cycling, with routes ranging from easy to difficult, exploring the diverse landscapes.

While popular spots like Mare de Déu del Mont attract visitors, areas like Sant Ferriol Sanctuary and Puig Cornador are described as less known by some visitors, offering impressive views and a more tranquil experience. Exploring the wider Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park also provides many trails where you can find solitude amidst nature.

The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures ideal for hiking and cycling. While the bar-restaurant at Mare de Déu del Mont is open on weekends from October to April, it's advisable to check specific opening times for facilities during off-peak seasons.

Yes, at the summit of Mare de Déu del Mont Summit, there is a restaurant/café with an outdoor terrace offering wonderful views. It's recommended to check their opening times, especially outside of peak season, as they may vary.

For hiking, you can explore routes like the Besalú Bridge loop, which is a moderate 8.8 km trail. For an easier option, there's a 5.1 km loop from Pont Vell of Besalú. More challenging routes can be found in the Garrotxa region, including ascents to peaks like Puig de Sant Marc and Puig de les Bruixes, which also feature waterfalls.

Visitors particularly appreciate the incredible viewpoints and expansive panoramic views offered by peaks like Mare de Déu del Mont. The unique volcanic landscapes of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park and the serene views of Lake Banyoles from peaks like Puig Clarà are also highly valued. The blend of natural beauty with historical sites adds to the overall appeal.

The ascent to Mare de Déu del Mont Summit is known as a challenging and long climb. The descent requires particular care due to narrow, steep, and winding roads, and the possibility of oncoming traffic. It's important to treat the descent with respect and caution.