Castellfollit de la Roca
A large number of small villages nestle in the volcanic region of La Garrotxa, an ideal place for hiking because of its lush green wooded landscape, friendly people and exquisite gastronomy.
The village of Castellfollit de la Roca is located almost 300 metres above sea level and is perched on the top of a 50 metre high and 1 kilometre long precipice.
This basalt rock formation was carved out by the river Fluvià and river Toronell on the remains of lava from the volcanoes in the region.
It is here that the only active basalt quarry in the whole of Spain can be found.
The views of the village from the road are spectacular. The ancient village centre still has ramparts, proof of its once strategic location in one of the most disputed areas in the region.
Very nice views can also be seen from the viewpoint opposite the Sant Salvador church.
Take a walk through its narrow streets and observe its houses built using volcanic rock and then wander through the village allotments at the bottom of the basalt rock, which form part of the Garrotxa National Park.
On the outskirts just 11 kilometres to the North of Castellfollit de la Roca lies Sardenes. The landscape en route to this village, passing through the village of Montagut and across the medieval bridge at Llierca, is outstanding. Once in Sardenes it is worth a visit to the Romanesque Santa Cecilia Church.
If you have got any energy left, visit the ancient monastery of Sant Aniol d’Aguja, a walk of approximately one and a half hours from Sardenes, through spectacular countryside dotted with calcareous rocks and small springs.
Top attractions in Castellfollit de la Roca:
- Viewpoint from the church square
- Cold sausage museum
- Hiking trips on the outskirts of the village
Special dates to consider when visiting Castellfollit de la Roca:
-"Festa Major"; third Sunday of September
Local market; every Saturday
And more information in ... Castellfollit de la Roca
