An approximately 40-metre-high and almost 1-kilometre-long basalt cliff defines Castellfollit de la Roca. From the Josep Pla viewpoint, panoramic views stretch across the Fluvià Valley. The cliff, Barri Vell and historic buildings reveal different aspects of basalt and its role in the town.
Basalt Cliff and Formation
The basalt cliff is one of the most geologically and scenically interesting places in the natural park. It was formed by the layering of two lava flows. The first flowed down from the Batet area through the Fluvià Valley about 217,000 years ago. About 192,000 years ago, a second flow came from the other side, from the Toronell Valley, and covered the first. The cliff is therefore the result of two successive flows from different valleys. Its dimensions and geological history give the landscape views a tangible geological context.
Barri Vell and Sant Salvador
Barri Vell has medieval origins. Its narrow, shady streets and houses built predominantly from volcanic rock make the stone a visible feature of the townscape. Sant Salvador brings together several historical dates: the old church was built in the 11th or early 12th century; records of Sant Salvador date back to the 13th century. The church is designed in the Renaissance style and preserves a Romanesque window. After numerous alterations, the old church was converted into a cultural centre.
The medieval history also extends beyond Castellfollit: the town was a barony that included Sant Joan les Fonts, Begudà, Montagut and Castellar de la Muntanya. This historical context adds the former territory under its lordship to the picture of its buildings and streets.
Itinerary 13: Riverbanks, Bridges and Camí Vell
Itinerary 13 starts at kilometre 45.2 of the road from Girona to Olot (GE-522), near the junction with the road to Oix (GEV-5221). From there, the route follows the riverbank through gardens. It crosses the river via a wooden footbridge and the Turonell via a small bridge. The route continues along the paved Camí Vell to Sant Salvador Church. The route can be followed by its landmarks: riverbank and gardens, two different crossings, and finally the paved section leading to the church.
Basalt in the Rural Heritage
The Camí de la Rossolada – horts includes rural infrastructure made from local basalt. This includes retaining walls, paved paths, stairs and steps, gates, enclosures, huts and drainage channels. Examples range from paths and walls to drainage and boundary structures, showing the versatile use of the stone beyond the cliff and houses.
Pont Trencat also tells a story of change: the bridge dates from 1908 and was not rebuilt after the 1940 flood. The present-day bridge was built in its place. Continued use of the material is also reflected in an active basalt quarry, operated by the Ortiz family since 1929. In Castellfollit, historic bridges and rural structures thus stand alongside basalt extraction that continues to this day.
Discover more destinations: Gombrèn, Colera, Vilanova de la Muga, Fortià, Palafrugell, Ultramort, Sant Martí Del Clot, Cadaqués.
For the broader travel overview: Girona.
