Montsacopa: An audio tour in the Volcano in the Centre of the City

Discover Montsacopa, a captivating volcano located right in the heart of Olot, Spain, for an accessible price of just $5.40 per person. This self-guided audio tour, lasting approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, offers an engaging way to explore the Volcanic Zone National Park in La Garrotxa. Perfect for those interested in geology, scenic vistas, and a bit of light exercise, this tour invites you to walk around the crater of Montsacopa, touch volcanic rocks, and enjoy panoramic 360º views. Its affordability and flexibility make it appealing, although travelers should note that entrance fees to nearby sites are not included, and a smartphone with the VoiceMap app is necessary.

This tour stands out because of its detailed commentary and the opportunity to explore a volcano in the middle of a city setting. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a casual walker, or simply looking for an interesting outdoor activity, Montsacopa offers a unique experience with a mix of history, nature, and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $5.40 per person with lifetime access to the tour.
• Self-guided audio via the VoiceMap app provides detailed commentary in English.
• Duration lasts around 60 to 75 minutes, ideal for a quick yet fulfilling outing.
• The tour takes place at Montsacopa Volcano in Olot, with offline access to audio, maps, and geodata.
• Highlights include walking around the crater, touching volcanic rocks, and enjoying breathtaking 360º views.
• The tour is suitable for people with moderate physical fitness and is private, ensuring personalized pacing.

Exploring Montsacopa in Olot

Montsacopa is a volcano that dominates the skyline of Olot, offering a scenic and educational experience. The tour begins at the Volcà del Montsacopa meeting point and takes you on a circular route around the volcano, where you can see the two watchtowers and the church inside the crater. The climb involves just over 100 steps, which are manageable for most visitors with moderate fitness. Along the way, the audio guide shares fascinating facts about why volcanoes are common in La Garrotxa, including the region’s 40 volcanoes and over 20 lava flows.

The views from the summit are a major highlight, with sweeping vistas of the Pyrenees mountain range and the green valleys of Olot. The landscaped surroundings and well-maintained paths make the walk both enjoyable and accessible. The volcano’s crater has become a meadow, offering a peaceful setting for reflection. The audio guide enhances the experience by explaining why there’s a church inside the crater and what last erupted here about 100,000 years ago.

Touching Volcanic Rocks and Scenic Vistas

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the opportunity to touch volcanic rocks as you walk along the trail. The landscaped paths are designed to make the experience both educational and tactile. As you wind around the crater, the 360º views of Olot and the surrounding landscape unfold, offering perfect photo opportunities.

The views of the Pyrenees are particularly striking on clear days, providing a dramatic backdrop to the volcanic landscape. The meadow in the crater offers a wide-open space to relax, making it a great spot for a short break. The audio commentary helps you understand why the region is so volcanically active and what happened during its last eruption.

The Guided Commentary and App Convenience

The tour is delivered through the VoiceMap app, compatible with Android and iOS devices. Once downloaded, the offline access feature allows you to enjoy the tour without needing an internet connection. The narration is in English and offers detailed explanations about the history, geology, and local culture of the area.

This self-guided format provides significant flexibility, allowing visitors to pause or repeat sections as needed. The audio guide ensures that you receive contextual information at each stop, which enhances the visit without the need for a physical guide. The $5.40 fee covers lifetime access, making it a cost-effective option for those who want to explore at their own pace.

Practicalities and Accessibility

The meeting point is at Volcà del Montsacopa in Olot, with the tour ending back at the starting location. Since the tour is private, only your group participates, allowing for a personalized experience. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness due to the 100-step climb and the uneven terrain around the crater.

While the tour does not include entrance fees to other attractions, it offers a rundown of the volcanic landscape. No transportation, food, or drink are included, so visitors should plan accordingly. The tour operates year-round, from noon to midnight, providing plenty of flexibility in scheduling.

The Scenic Landscape of La Garrotxa

Beyond Montsacopa, the region of La Garrotxa is renowned for its volcanic landscape, which features over 40 volcanoes and extensive lava flows. The tour sheds light on why this region is so volcanically active, offering insights into geological processes that shaped the area. The landscaped surroundings and quiet natural environment make this walk a peaceful yet informative outing.

The well-maintained paths and landscaping make the trail accessible for most visitors, and the scenic views make it a worthwhile stop on any trip to the area. The church inside the crater adds a touch of local history and spirituality to the natural spectacle.

The Experience of a Volcano in the Heart of a City

Seeing a volcano within Olot’s cityscape is a striking feature of this tour. The climb offers just enough exercise to appreciate the landscape, and the views from the top are truly rewarding. The landscaped surroundings and the well-preserved crater create a sense of being in a living geological monument.

The tour’s informative commentary contextualizes this natural feature, helping visitors understand the volcanic activity that shaped the region about 100,000 years ago. The touch-friendly volcanic rocks and expansive vistas create a memorable outdoor experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This audio tour appeals to those interested in geology, nature, and scenic views. It is particularly suited for moderate fitness levels, given the steps and uneven terrain. The private format makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized experience without large crowds.

The cost-effectiveness and flexibility make it a good choice for travelers who prefer self-guided exploration over scheduled tours. Anyone looking for an affordable, educational outdoor activity with stunning views of the Pyrenees and Valleys should find this tour compelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children with moderate fitness can enjoy the walk, especially since the terrain is well-maintained and the distance manageable.

Do I need a smartphone to participate?
Yes, the VoiceMap app is required to access the audio commentary. A smartphone with offline access is recommended for the best experience.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the ticket or entrance fees to any other museums or attractions are not included. The tour focuses on the volcano and surrounding landscape.

Can I do this tour at any time?
Yes, the tour operates every day from noon to midnight. You can choose a time that suits your schedule.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
A moderate level of fitness is needed due to the steps and walking terrain. The tour is suitable for most physically capable visitors.

What should I bring?
A smartphone, headphones, and comfortable walking shoes. Carry water if desired, as the walk is about an hour long.

This self-guided audio tour of Montsacopa offers an affordable and flexible way to explore a volcanic landmark in the heart of Olot. With stunning views, touchable volcanic rocks, and informative narration, it provides a meaningful outdoor experience for geology buffs and casual explorers alike.