Banyoles: Olympic rowing lake and archaeological heritage

The Lake of Banyoles is a natural lake of karst origin, formed by underground springs from the Garrotxa volcanic aquifer. The lake is 2.1 km long and up to 62 metres deep, with crystal-clear water that varies from turquoise to deep blue.

What makes the lake special:

• Karst pools: underwater springs that bubble up, creating circular depressions (the "estanyols") visible on the lakebed
• Constant water renewal: the springs continuously refresh the water, keeping it clean
• Olympic history: hosted rowing and kayaking events in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, with the rowing course still marked

The lake is surrounded by a 7 km perimeter path, perfect for walking, running or cycling (allow 1.5-2 hours on foot, 30 minutes by bike). Bikes can be rented near the lake for 8-12 EUR/day.

The path passes through parks, wetlands and viewpoints, with benches and picnic areas. Swimming is permitted in designated areas during summer.

The lake offers various water activities:

Rowing and kayaking:

• Several clubs offer kayak and stand-up paddleboard rental (15-20 EUR/hour)
• Rowing courses for beginners
• The Olympic rowing course is still used for training and competitions

Swimming:

• Designated swimming areas with lifeguards (summer only)
• Water temperature reaches 24-26°C in summer
• Grassy areas for sunbathing

Pedalo boats:

• Family-friendly pedalos for hire (10-15 EUR/hour)

The lake area has cafés and restaurants with terraces overlooking the water, perfect for lunch or a drink after walking.

Banyoles has a long history of archaeological finds, including the famous (and controversial) Banyoles Man jawbone. The Museu Arqueològic Comarcal de Banyoles displays finds from prehistory to the medieval period.

Key exhibits include:

• Prehistoric tools: Paleolithic implements from local caves
• Neolithic period: pottery, axes, evidence of early agriculture
• Roman artifacts: from the Roman villa at Vilauba (can be visited separately)
• Medieval finds: from Porqueres monastery and Banyoles town

The most famous exhibit was the Banyoles Man mandible (jawbone), dated to 66,000 years ago, but this was repatriated to Botswana in 2000 after controversy over its display. The museum now tells this story as part of the ethics of museum collections.

Entry is 4 EUR, allow 1 hour for the visit.

Banyoles' historic centre has a pleasant medieval core with arcaded squares and narrow streets. Highlights include:

• Plaça Major: arcaded square with cafés and Wednesday market
• Church of Santa Maria dels Turers: Gothic church with a beautiful rose window
• The old Jewish quarter: narrow lanes with stone houses

Just 2 km from town (10-minute walk along the lake path) is Santa Maria de Porqueres, a beautiful Romanesque monastery church from the 11th century. The simple stone building in a peaceful lakeside setting is one of the finest Romanesque buildings in the region. Entry is free.

Morning: Drive from La Tor de Montclar to Banyoles (1.5 hours via C-16 north, C-26 east through Olot, then south to Banyoles). Arrive around 10am.

Park near the lake (pay parking, 2-3 EUR). Start with a walk around the lake - you can do the full 7 km circuit (2 hours) or half the lake (1 hour). Alternatively, rent bikes for a faster circuit.

Midday: Visit the Porqueres Romanesque church on the lake circuit (if walking), or return to town to visit the Archaeological Museum.

Lunch: Restaurants near the lake serve Catalan cuisine with fresh fish (from rivers, not the lake), rice dishes, salads. Lakeside terraces are pleasant. Set menus 15-20 EUR.

Afternoon: Options:

• Option A: Rent a kayak or pedalo to get out on the water
• Option B: Explore Banyoles old town and shops
• Option C: Drive to nearby Besalú (15 min) for the medieval bridge and Jewish quarter

The combination of Banyoles and Besalú makes a perfect full day.