Olot & La Garrotxa Day Trip from Camping Les Medes: A Volcanic Adventure
Looking to add a unique inland escape to your Costa Brava stay? An Olot & La Garrotxa day trip from Camping Les Medes delivers exactly that: a change of scenery into Catalonia’s volcanic heartland, paired with the cultural charm of Olot. In this guide, you’ll find clear distances, what to expect, simple add-on stops, and practical tips so you can plan a seamless day out and be back at your pitch or bungalow by sunset.
Day Trip at a Glance
- Destination: Olot & the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park
- Distance from Camping Les Medes: 83 km
- Why go: Nature-rich volcanic landscapes plus an artful, historic city
- Who it’s for: Walkers, culture lovers, curious families, and photo-seekers
- Good to know: Olot is part of the Natural Park; within its municipal limits there are four volcanoes
Quick Answer: How far is Olot from Camping Les Medes?
- 83 km from the campsite.
Why Olot & La Garrotxa belong on your Costa Brava itinerary
Shaped by ancient volcanic activity, the Garrotxa area offers a striking counterpoint to the coast’s beaches and coves. Expect gentle, green landscapes, distinctive geology, and a slower rhythm that invites strolling, lingering over views, and discovering local craftsmanship.
Olot: art, heritage, and a city tied to nature
As the capital of the Garrotxa region, Olot sits on a plain crossed by the Fluvià river and is known for its rich natural surroundings. The city is an art lover’s stop, with noteworthy modernist buildings and Renaissance religious architecture. Olot also has a renowned nativity-scene (crib) tradition and figurine workshops, making it a rewarding visit beyond the park itself.
The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park
Olot is part of the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone, a protected area celebrated for its volcanic character. Notably, four volcanoes lie within the municipality of Olot. While you explore, you’ll notice the landscape’s gentle relief, fertile soils, and mixed woodland—features that make this an inviting place for easy walks and scenic photo stops.
Tip: If you love pairing nature with culture, Olot gives you both in one compact, manageable day.
Suggested day plans (flexible and easy)
Below are simple, modular ideas. Mix and match based on your interests and how early you start.
Option A: Classic Volcanic Day
Morning in Olot
- Start with a relaxed city stroll. Admire modernist façades and the Renaissance religious edifices that hint at Olot’s layered history.
- Pause at a café and browse local artisan shops; Olot’s figurine workshops reflect a celebrated craft tradition.
Midday to afternoon: Nature time in the park
- Venture to the surrounding green spaces of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Look for gentle trails and view spots that highlight the area’s volcanic terrain. Keep walks short and scenic to stay on pace for a return by evening.
Back to base
- Return to Camping Les Medes in time to unwind. Depending on the season, take a dip in the pool to refresh.
Option B: Add medieval Besalú (cultural detour)
- Distance from the campsite to Besalú: 56 km
- Why stop: One of Catalonia’s most important medieval ensembles, with rich cultural and historical heritage. Don’t miss a moment on the Old Bridge—a picture-perfect spot.
- How to use it: Spend a morning exploring Besalú’s lanes and bridge, then continue to Olot for an afternoon in and around the park.
Option C: Pair with lakeside Banyoles (nature + city combo)
- Distance from the campsite to Banyoles: 44 km
- Why stop: A lovely lake setting where you can enjoy walking, cycling, or rowing, and relax at bars along the shore. There’s also a pretty medieval center ideal for a short, atmospheric stroll.
- How to use it: Begin with an easy lap or lakeside walk in Banyoles, then drive on to Olot for an afternoon among volcanic landscapes and city highlights.
Practical tips from your base at Camping Les Medes
A well-prepared day means a smoother trip and a more relaxed return. These campsite services make it easier:
Facilities that simplify your day
- Bicycle hire and storage: Rent touring bikes or MTBs (e-bikes available on request) and keep them in the indoor bike room when not in use. Ideal if you plan a gentle ride near Olot or prefer to cycle during your stay on the coast.
- Electric vehicle charging point: Arrive back and recharge on-site.
- Pools for a post-trip reset:
- Indoor heated pool: Open approximately 15/09 to 15/06 (weather-dependent). Sauna and massages are available for a fee.
- Outdoor pools (adults and children): Open 01/05 to 15/09.
- Snack-pizzeria and restaurant: Convenient options when you return hungry. The snack-pizzeria operates on-site; there’s also a restaurant at the campsite.
- Family-friendly essentials: Nursery/baby-changing area in the sanitary blocks.
- Peace-of-mind extras: An on-site AED (defibrillator) is available for emergencies; a safe-deposit service can protect valuables while you’re away for the day.
- Car care: A self-service car-wash point on the grounds helps keep things clean after rural drives.
What to bring
- Comfortable footwear suited for easy walks and town cobbles.
- Layers: inland weather can feel different from the coast.
- Water and snacks; plan a relaxed lunch in Olot.
- If cycling, your usual kit; check availability of bikes at reception in advance.
Family notes
- The campsite is open all year. Whether you’re visiting in summer or the shoulder seasons, you can combine coastal days with inland discoveries.
- Pools and amenities vary by season; align your return with a swim or sauna session depending on dates.
FAQs
How far is Olot from Camping Les Medes?
- 83 km.
Can I visit Olot and Besalú in one day from the campsite?
- Yes. The distances are manageable for a day trip: Besalú is 56 km from the campsite and Olot is 83 km. Start early and keep your visits focused.
Is there an EV charging point at Camping Les Medes?
- Yes. Guests can use the on-site electric vehicle charging point during their stay.
Are there family facilities at the campsite for babies?
- Yes. The sanitary buildings include a nursery area with baby-changing facilities.
Where can I find more ideas for nearby outings?
- Explore the campsite’s guides to Surroundings and Attractive Places. You’ll find highlights like Peratallada (12 km), Pals (15 km), Ullastret and its Iberian settlement (15 km), Sant Martí d’Empúries with the Empúries ruins (21 km), La Bisbal d’Empordà (23 km) for ceramics, Girona (40 km), and Figueres (42 km) with the Dalí Theatre-Museum.
Make it part of a balanced Costa Brava stay
One of the joys of staying at Camping Les Medes—right in the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park—is how easy it is to pair coastal days with inland discoveries. After exploring the volcanic character of La Garrotxa and the artistic side of Olot, you can be back by evening for a swim, a slice at the snack-pizzeria, or a quiet walk to the nearby sea.
Ready to plan your Olot & La Garrotxa day trip from Camping Les Medes? Contact us for practical tips or to tailor a day around your interests.
- Phone: +34 972 75 18 05
- Email: info@campinglesmedes.com
Book your next stay and use our on-site amenities to make every day of your holiday effortlessly memorable.