La Garrotxa: Hot Air Balloon Ride & Breakfast Over Volcanoes

Summary

Soar over la garrotxa’s volcanoes at sunrise with breakfast and cava

You’ll float at sunrise above La Garrotxa’s volcanic landscape with a local guide, sipping cava midair as mist drifts past ancient craters. After landing softly in a quiet field, you’ll gather for a generous Catalan brunch with fresh bread and strong coffee—maybe still feeling that strange mix of nerves and wonder long after you’re back on solid ground.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what the world looks like before most people wake up? I didn’t expect the air in La Garrotxa to feel so cold on my cheeks that early, or the quiet—just that soft rustle of jackets and a few sleepy laughs as we met near Croscat volcano. Our pilot, Jordi, handed out coffee (strong, thank god) while someone checked the balloon ropes. The burners roared to life and suddenly there was this sweet, burnt smell—almost like toasted sugar—and then we were climbing up, way above the volcanic craters. My hands were shaking but I think it was more nerves than cold.

The sun cracked over the Pyrenees and everything went gold for a minute. I kept looking down at those old volcanoes—some still green, some dark with old lava flows—trying to spot tiny farmhouses tucked in between. Jordi pointed out Montserrat in the distance and joked about how you could see all the way to the sea on clear days (it was a bit hazy for us, but I liked that). We floated so quietly that even our group started whispering without realizing. At one point he passed around little pastries and poured cava—honestly, drinking sparkling wine before 9am felt both wrong and absolutely right.

Landing was softer than I thought it’d be; just a bump and then everyone laughing because someone lost a shoe in the field. The ground felt weirdly solid after an hour floating above La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Breakfast after was huge—local bread, tomatoes you rub on yourself (I always mess that up), cheese, sausages. People lingered over coffee outside, swapping photos and stories while the balloon crew packed up nearby. It’s funny how fast strangers become friends when you’ve shared something like that. I still think about that view from above—the way everything looked small but somehow more real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hot air balloon flight over volcanoes

• Arrive at Vol de Coloms facilities
• Prepare and board hot air balloon
• Fly over La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone
• View youngest volcano in La Garrotxa
• See volcano with heritage inside crater
• Enjoy views of Pyrenees Mountains
• Land and conclude balloon experience

Top questions

How early does the hot air balloon ride in La Garrotxa start?

The flight begins between 7:00 am and 8:00 am depending on the season.

Is breakfast included after the balloon ride?

Yes, a hearty brunch is served after landing along with coffee before your flight.

Can children join the hot air balloon tour?

The minimum age is 5 years old for this activity.

Is the hot air balloon ride wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Do they serve drinks during the flight?

Cava (or non-alcoholic drinks) and local pastry are served during the flight as a toast.

Where does the hot air balloon take off from?

The launch site is next to Croscat volcano in La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park.

How long does the whole activity last?

The experience lasts about 5 hours total, including flight time and brunch.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning coffee at Vol de Coloms near Croscat volcano, all organization by your local pilot team, insurance coverage throughout, an in-flight toast with cava or soft drinks plus pastries as you float above La Garrotxa’s volcanoes, followed by a big Catalan brunch after landing—and you’ll get a first flight certificate signed by your pilot before heading home.