Many travellers staying in Girona don’t realise that, in less than an hour, they can swim in natural pools surrounded by forest or walk around volcanic craters that are unique on the Iberian Peninsula.
Girona is one of the best starting points for discovering some of the most impressive gorges, waterfalls and rivers in Catalonia. Its privileged location makes it easy to reach the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone, the Brugent Valley and different natural areas where water and volcanic landscapes create spectacular scenery.
From crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming in summer to waterfalls and hiking routes that are perfect for the rest of the year, this excursion combines nature, fresh air and easy plans for all levels.
Breakfast and the start of the excursion from Hotel Carlemany
Before heading out, start the day with a complete breakfast at Hotel Carlemany, ideal for recharging before a day in nature. The hotel offers different options to suit all tastes and needs.
If you’re travelling as a family or want extra comfort, the hotel offers family suites, triple rooms and a suite with a freestanding bathtub, among others. After the excursion, you can rest well, relax and regain your energy.
The hotel has parking in the same building, electric vehicle charging points and a secure bike storage area, ideal if you want to enjoy cycling in Girona.
This makes it easy to plan the day with total flexibility, whether you’re travelling by car or by bike.
Gorges near Girona (Les Planes d’Hostoles – 45 min)
The Brugent River valley and the area around Les Planes d’Hostoles (La Garrotxa) concentrate some of the best-known and most accessible gorges for a day trip from Girona. They are well signposted and, in summer and on public holidays, access may be regulated with a reservation/fee, which is important to bear in mind before you set off.
1. Gorga de Can Poeti
Can Poeti is a highly recommended option if you’re looking for a pleasant pool without taking on long routes. The surroundings are lush and perfect for spending some time by the water, especially on hot days. It’s an ideal place to combine swimming and relaxing—and if you go early, you’ll enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
After your swim, you can round off the plan with a short walk around the village or along nearby marked trails before heading towards the volcanic area.
2. Gorga de Santa Margarida
Gorga de Santa Margarida is one of the best-known in the Brugent area and stands out for its impressive waterfall, which drops into a pool surrounded by vegetation and rock, creating a very special atmosphere. Although it’s relatively easy to access, it still feels like a hidden corner—exactly what many people love. In summer, it’s an ideal stop to cool off, combining a swim, a walk and photos of the natural surroundings.
If you’re planning a full day, the ideal option is to combine this gorge with another nearby one (such as Can Poeti or Molí dels Murris) and do a circular route, stopping by one of the most charming medieval towns in the Girona area: Besalú.
3. Gorg del Molí dels Murris (Les Planes d’Hostoles)
Gorg del Molí dels Murris is one of the most photogenic spots in La Garrotxa, with a lush green setting and natural formations that make it especially appealing in photos. Access is easy and suitable for most visitors, with a short walk from the parking area.
In summer, it’s one of the most sought-after pools for swimming; outside peak season, it’s still highly recommended for the landscape and the light filtering through the vegetation. If you want a well-rounded plan, this is an excellent “end-of-morning” stop before heading towards Olot/Santa Pau.
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone (Olot and surroundings – approx. 1 hour)
In addition to the gorges, La Garrotxa offers other natural attractions. The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park is home to more than 40 volcanic cones and several lava flows. Among the most visited are the Croscat Volcano, with its spectacular exposed ash cut, and the Santa Margarida Volcano, whose crater contains a small chapel in the centre. These are signposted and accessible routes that can be done independently or as an alternative to swimming in the months outside summer.
You can also choose a walk through La Fageda d’en Jordà, a unique beech forest that grows on an ancient lava flow and is especially attractive in autumn because of its colours. In the same area you’ll find the well-known La Fageda social project, a cooperative that produces yoghurts and dairy products and promotes the labour integration of people with intellectual disabilities. You can visit the cooperative and, on the same day, explore the forest along the marked trails.
Return to the hotel after the gorges and Garrotxa route
For a comfortable day trip, the best plan is to set off in the morning, combine one of the gorges with a walk in the volcanic area, and have lunch in Olot or Santa Pau before returning to Girona in the afternoon.
By staying at Hotel Carlemany, you can come back at your own pace, park in the same building and relax after an active day in nature. You can rest in your room, take a comforting shower and enjoy dinner in the centre of Girona.
This combination of nature in the morning and urban rest in the afternoon makes Girona a perfect base for discovering the gorges and the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone without having to change accommodation.
