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Do you want to discover a forest that seems as if it's straight out of a fairy tale? Located in the heart of the Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park, Fageda d'en Jordà is a unique beech forest because it grows on an old lava flow from the Croscat volcano. The result is a landscape that is captivating all year round. If you are looking for a nature-filled getaway close to Barcelona or Girona, Fageda d'en Jordà is a classic that will make you fall in love.
What is the Fageda d'en Jordà?
La Fageda d'en Jordà is an outstanding nature reserve in the Garrotxa region. What is most surprising is that its beech trees grow at a relatively low altitude, which is unusual, and they do so on the rugged terrain left by solidified lava thousands of years ago after several volcanic eruptions. This geological origin has created a relief full of small hills and depressions known as "tossols", which give the forest a very particular appearance. When you walk there, the terrain gently rises and falls, reinforcing the feeling of entering an almost magical space. In addition, it is an area of great ecological value because the humidity, shade, and soil composition have promoted a notable biodiversity, with flora and fauna typical of Central European forests.
When to visit La Fageda d'en Jordà?
The quick answer would be: anytime. Every season transforms the forest and makes it different. However, if there is a famous postcard of the Garrotxa, it's La Fageda d'en Jordà autumn. Between October and November, the forest dresses up in shades of yellow, ochre, orange, and reddish. The carpet of leaves on the ground and the low light of the sun turn any walk into a movie scene. It's the season with the most visitors, so it's advisable to arrive early, book if you want to do guided activities and, if possible, go there during the week. La Fageda d'en Jordà is one of the best autumn plans in Girona and the Costa Brava. The coldest months, in contrast, offer a more intimate version of the forest. There are fewer visitors, the atmosphere is quite peaceful, and the paths invite a leisurely stroll.
During spring, is also a good time to visit La Fageda d'en Jordà in full green explosion, a real treat for the senses and for your Instagram profile, and for this reason, we consider it one of the 9 most spectacular landscapes to enjoy spring in Catalonia.
Routes to visit La Fageda d'en Jordà
One of the big questions visitors often ask is which routes around the Fageda d'en Jordà are worth the most. The good news is that there are routes for all levels and styles: from very accessible walks for children to longer routes designed for hikers who want to make the most of the day and explore other areas of the natural park.
Circular route through the Fageda d'en Jordà
This is the most classic and recommended route for a first visit to the Fageda d'en Jordà. It is a circular itinerary, easy and well signposted, designed for all kind of walkers. The usual duration varies between one and two hours, with very little elevation, which makes it especially accessible.
Route from Can Serra
The Can Serra area is the main access point to Fageda d'en Jordà and the best place to start your visit if you're looking for convenience and guidance. Several signposted routes of varying lengths and difficulty levels start from here, most of which are easy or moderate. It is a particularly suitable option for families with children, groups, or people who prefer short, well-structured routes, as it has regulated parking, information panels, and basic services.
Long excursions from Olot or Santa Pau
For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, there are longer routes that connect Fageda d'en Jordà with other notable points in the Natural Park of the Volcanic Area of Garrotxa. These hikes are typically of moderate level, longer and require a bit more preparation. From Olot or Santa Pau, you can plan routes that pass by the Croscat Volcano or the Santa Margarida Volcano, known for the chapel situated inside the crater.
Horse-drawn carriage ride through the Fageda d'en Jordà
It is one of the most traditional and unique experiences in the Fageda d'en Jordà. From the Can Serra area, guided tours with horse-drawn carriages are available, which allow you to discover the forest in a relaxed and effortless way. This is a guided activity, with explanations about the natural environment and history of the place, specially designed for families with children, elderly people, or those who prefer a relaxed visit.
How to get to and where to park at Fageda d'en Jordà?
The most common way to reach the Fageda d'en Jordà is from Olot on the GI-524 road towards Santa Pau. The journey is straightforward and well signposted. If you're looking for a place to park, the reference point is the Can Serra area, although it can fill up early on autumn weekends or holidays. If you want to avoid queues, it is best to arrive early or visit the area outside the central hours of the day. It is also advisable to check the status of the roads before leaving the house, especially during high season.
What to see near the Fageda d'en Jordà?
Visiting the Fageda d'en Jordà becomes much more enriching when paired with other points of interest in the region. Just minutes away, you'll find, for example, the Volcano of Croscat, one of the most impressive volcanoes in the natural park, with a large sidecut that allows you to observe its internal structure and better understand the volcanic origin of the landscape. The Santa Margarida Volcano also stands out, a large crater with a hermitage at the center that forms a unique image, very representative of the area. Culturally, it's well worth stopping by Santa Pau, one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Garrotxa, with its cobbled streets, walls and a beautiful arcade plaza that is perfect for Instagram. Lastly, very close to the forest, you'll find The Cooperative La Fageda, a social cooperative well known for its yogurts and ice creams, which offers guided tours with prior reservation, to discover both their social project and the process of making their products.
Practical tips for visiting la Fageda d'en Jordà
- Avoid peak hours: between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. is when it is busiest almost all year round. Getting there early in the morning or late in the afternoon makes a big difference.
- Check the status of the Can Serra parking lot: access is regulated on weekends or high season and it can get crowded.
- Don't rely solely on GPS: coverage can fail inside the beech forest. It's better to follow official signage or have the route downloaded in advance.
- Respect the volcanic environment: the volcanic soils are fragile. Avoid straying from the paths and do not move rocks or soil.
- If you like photography, watch the light: clouded or foggy days are spectacular for capturing the magical ambience of the beech forest, especially in autumn.
If you want to extend the getaway, staying in a rural house near the natural park is the best way to discover the region without rushing. Sleeping surrounded by nature, having breakfast with views, and having the Fageda, the volcanoes, and villages such as Santa Pau or Besalú within reach turns any getaway into a little luxury.
