The best running trails around Olot

Olot offers a wide variety of running and jogging routes, with over 120 trails available. These routes cater to all levels, including 3 easy, 79 moderate, and 43 difficult options, ensuring there's a suitable path for every runner within the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park.

Yes, Olot has several easy running trails perfect for beginners or families. The renowned Fageda d'en Jordà, Santa Margarida, and Croscat Volcanoes Trail, while moderate overall, includes sections through the flat, enchanting Fageda d'en Jordà beech forest, which is known for its stroller-friendly paths. The Carrilet Greenway, a converted railway line, also offers a mostly flat and scenic option for less strenuous jogs.

Absolutely. Many of Olot's running paths are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Olot Greenway – Fluvià River – Ermita de la Salut loop from Olot offers a scenic moderate loop, and the Fageda d'en Jordà – View to Olot loop from Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park provides another excellent circular option through the volcanic landscape.

Jogging in Olot offers a chance to explore unique natural attractions. You can run through the ancient Fageda d'en Jordà beech forest, which grows atop a lava flow, or ascend extinct volcanoes like Montsacopa for panoramic views. The region also features beautiful riparian landscapes along the River Fluvià. For those interested in waterfalls, highlights like the Molí dels Murris Pool and Can Cotilla Waterfall are accessible near some routes.

Yes, for those seeking longer runs, Olot provides several options. The Plaça Clarà – Plaça Rector Ferrer loop from Olot is a challenging 13.7-mile (22.1 km) trail that takes you through urban and natural areas. Additionally, the Carrilet Greenway extends from Olot to Girona, offering a significantly longer, mostly flat path ideal for extended runs.

The running trails in Olot are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.1 stars from over 16 reviews. Runners frequently praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the serene beauty of the Fageda d'en Jordà, and the well-maintained network of paths that cater to various fitness levels.

Many routes in Olot provide stunning scenic viewpoints, especially those that ascend the extinct volcanoes. For instance, jogging to the top of Montsacopa volcano offers panoramic views of Olot and the surrounding Garrotxa Volcanic Zone. The Fageda d'en Jordà – View to Olot loop from Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park also includes sections with great vistas.

Olot is well-integrated with its natural surroundings, and many trails are accessible directly from the town center. While specific public transport details for each trailhead vary, the city's location within the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park means that many routes, including the climb to Montsacopa, can be started without needing a car.

Yes, Olot features several green spaces ideal for shorter jogs or warm-ups. Parc Nou, with its botanical garden, and Pedra Tosca Park, known for its unique landscape design, offer pleasant environments for leisurely runs within the city.

The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park offers a pleasant environment for jogging throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, with lush greenery in spring and rich colors in autumn. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon runs are advisable. Winter offers crisp air and unique views, though some higher elevation paths might require appropriate gear.

Yes, Olot seamlessly blends urban and natural environments. The Plaça Clarà – Plaça Rector Ferrer loop from Olot is a prime example, leading you through both the city's areas and its surrounding natural landscapes. You can also find trails that start right from the town, such as the path leading up to Montsacopa volcano, offering a mix of city views and natural exploration.