Costa Brava hosts great natural areas where protected natural areas account for 30% of the surface area. Costa Brava can be described as the dark greens of pines gather with the blue waves and waters beneath the sun together with the Pirineu de Girona. The Garrotxa Volcanic Area, Cadí-Moixeró, Cap de Creus, Montseny and the Medes Islands are great natural parks in Costa Brava that worth a visit and see. Below we put together the most popular natural parks in Costa Brava to enjoy.
Natural Parks in Costa Brava
Garrotxa Volcanic Area Natural Park – in Olot
Garrotxa Volcanic Area Natural Park, located in the city of Olot, Catalonia, is a unique destination that boasts over 40 volcanic cones and 20 lava flows, making it a popular spot for hiking, camping, and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the rugged landscape, which is dotted with lush forests, glistening lakes, and stunning waterfalls.
The park’s centerpiece is the Santa Margarida volcano, which features a perfectly preserved crater that visitors can explore on foot. Other popular attractions within the park include the Fageda d’en Jordà beech forest, the Croscat volcano, and the picturesque medieval town of Besalú.
In addition to hiking and exploring the natural wonders, the park offers a range of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, and guided tours. There are also several visitor centers throughout the park, providing information on the park’s geology, history, and ecology.
Montseny Natural Park – in Arbúcies
Montseny Natural Park is located near the town of Arbúcies. The park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including oak and beech forests, Mediterranean scrubland, and a variety of birds and mammals.
Visitors can explore the park by hiking its numerous trails, some of which lead to stunning viewpoints of the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to several small towns and villages, where visitors can experience traditional Catalan culture and cuisine.
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Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park – in Bagà
Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park is a protected area located in the Pyrenees mountain range, in the province of Barcelona, Spain. The park covers an area of approximately 41,342 hectares and is known for its rugged landscapes, alpine meadows, and diverse flora and fauna. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including brown bears, eagles, vultures, and chamois.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and skiing during the winter months. The park also has a number of well-preserved Romanesque churches and other historical sites, making it a great destination for those interested in cultural tourism.
Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park – in Castelló d’Empúries
Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park is located in the town of Castelló d’Empúries in the province of Girona. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, amphibians, and insects. It consists of marshes, lagoons, and channels, making it an important wetland ecosystem in the region.
Visitors can enjoy walking along the numerous trails and observing the wildlife in their natural habitats. The park also offers guided tours, workshops, and other activities to learn more about the park’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.
In addition to the natural beauty, Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park is also rich in cultural heritage, with historical landmarks such as the Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery and the medieval town of Castelló d’Empúries nearby.
Natural Park of the Montgrí Massif, the Medes Islands and the Baix Ter – in L’Estartit
The Natural Park of the Montgrí Massif, the Medes Islands and the Baix Ter is a stunning protected area located in the town of L’Estartit. This park offers visitors a chance to explore a unique ecosystem where mountains, sea, and rivers meet. The park’s highlight is the Medes Islands, which are a group of seven small islands that have been declared a marine reserve. The islands are a haven for divers, who come from all over the world to explore the colorful underwater life.
Aside from the islands, the park also features the Montgrí Massif, which is a range of mountains that provide excellent hiking opportunities. The Baix Ter River also runs through the park and is home to many species of birds and other wildlife.
The Natural Park of the Montgrí Massif, the Medes Islands and the Baix Ter is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or by kayak. There are also several guided tours available that provide a deeper understanding of the park’s ecology and history.
Albera Natural Zone of National Interest – in Espolla & La Jonquera
The Albera Natural Zone of National Interest is a stunning area located in the towns of Espolla and La Jonquera. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and cycling.
The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with numerous trails winding through forests, fields, and rocky cliffs. Visitors can also explore ancient dolmens and other prehistoric remains scattered throughout the area, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Cap de Creus Natural Park – in El Port de la Selva
Cap de Creus Natural Park is located on the easternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula, in the municipality of El Port de la Selva. The park covers an area of more than 13,000 hectares and is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.
Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees Mountains. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey, dolphins, and rare plant species. A must-visit attraction in the park is the Cap de Creus Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
