The degraded formerly quarried area of the volcano Croscat was restored in 1995 to minimise the impact of the quarries on the landscape, prevent further erosion and guarantee public access for educational purposes.
La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Nature Park Centre at Can Passavent at the entrance of the former quarried areas, with an exhibition on the volcano Croscat. Information centre opening hours: all the year 10-16h.
Volcanic cone with its horseshoe-shaped crater.
Lava flow of over 6 km.
Volcanic cone entirely covered with vegetation with the exception of the formerly quarried area that allows the volcano to be seen. The quarries led to public protests and demonstrations in 1975 and the subsequent protection of the volcanic area in 1982. The restoration of the quarries won the FAD prize for decorative art designs,
Access: Natural Park Itinerary 15 to visit the quarried area of the volcano Croscat (2.9 km, 50 min) begins at the car park at Santa Margarida on the right of the road from Olot to Santa Pau (km 6.1). Natural Park Itinerary 1, Fageda d'en Jordà-volcano Santa Margarida-volcano El Croscat (11 km, 4h), also passes near the quarried area of Croscat on a circular route of 5 km (1 hr 40 min) starting at Can Serra (Fageda d'en Jordà). No entry for motor vehicles.
Except for those from non-profit-making organisations, groups must reserve beforehand by phoning 972 19 50 94.
The Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa gives authorization to access by vehicle to Can Passavent Information Centre, with prior accreditation of the degree of disability. Authorizations must be requested in advance by sending an email to cps@tosca.cat at least 24 hours in advance.
Where to park? Santa Margarida area.
Resources: billboard, exhibition, family discovery, visitor guide.
Organized groups (scouts, travel agencies, companies...): According to the special regulations, organized groups can only access accompanied by a guide authorized by the Natural Park and by making a prior reservation to cps@tosca.cat. Most guide companies have guides with this qualification.
