Top 5 Caves around L'Esquirol
Best caves around L'Esquirol, a municipality in the Osona region of Catalonia, Spain, are characterized by their geological formations and natural surroundings. The area features a variety of natural caves and rock shelters, often integrated into picturesque landscapes with waterfalls and gorges. These sites offer insights into the region's geology and history. L'Esquirol provides opportunities to explore diverse underground formations and natural rock shelters.
Best caves around L'Esquirol
- The most popular caves is Salt del Molí Bernat, a waterfall…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Salt del Molí Bernat
Highlight • Waterfall
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Oratory of Mare de Déu de les Olletes
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Cave of the Pixarelles
Highlight • Cave
Considered one of the oldest …
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Bandoleros' Mine
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Bauma de les Piques
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Popular around L'Esquirol
Tips from the Community
We were here in April 2026. Unfortunately, the hiking trail is not in good condition. The descent to the waterfall is quite steep but passable. The paths to the stairs of the Riscos de la Perereda are all overgrown, and only a shortened path past an old mill back to the parking lot is passable.
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It is one of the largest pools in the Collsacabra, with a width of 70 m, although it is not very deep, it has a maximum of 7 m. The maximum height is 4 m. Inside there are two large rectangular sinks (one simple and one double) dug into the rock that collect the water that falls from the roof of the balma. It was possibly the primitive house of the Baumes, located well below. It could also have been the refuge of the famous Serrallonga, since according to a legend, he used to rest in a balma near Tavertet that had room for 60 men and beasts of burden. It is a balm, that of Spades, which meets these conditions, due to its capacity and strategy.
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The Salt del Molí Bernat is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country with a 50 meter drop, it belongs to the Gorgàs stream, from the Sot de Balà. The whole of the balma, the jump and the remains of the mill make up one of the most attractive and unique places in the region. If you want to see the jump in all its glory, we recommend doing the route after rains, despite the added difficulty because of the mud you can find on the way down, but seeing the water fall from inside the balma is really impressive .
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Caves that during the Neolithic and until the Iberian period had been a lookout and hunting settlement (complementary to the town of Pla del Castell). Considered one of the oldest documented stable occupations, dating from the year 3100 to 900 before our era. Although no human remains have been found, the discovery in this lower level of a prehistoric home and a fauna deposit (with the supposed remains of a wild boar half consumed by the ancient settlers) will help to study what life was like in this space six years ago. a thousand years.
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It is a small oratory 5 meters high, 8 meters deep and 4 meters wide, dug into the rock and closed by a gate. It houses a Baroque alabaster image of the Virgin Mary, about 50 cm. height, a copy of the original, which is preserved in the town's parish church. Next to it and rising above the road are the remains of the building where the objects needed for the worship of the chapel were kept. Its origin can be traced back to the beginning of the 17th century, when, according to traditional references, an image of the Virgin Mary was found in a small depression in the ground, that is, in a "pot", which has given its name to the oratory This hole is a few steps away, on a support of the cliff, which has been retouched in order to be able to put a fence. When the image from this corner was moved to the chapel, one of the Virgin Mary of Núria was placed in its place. pot-shaped cavities found around
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The passage of the waterfall is internal but there is a chain to hold onto in case of moisture.
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The Bandoleros mine is a crevice about 50 meters long, with a maximum height of four meters and a width of just over one meter. There are several stories that mention this mine as a hiding place for bandits. Its good location next to the Camino Real from Vic to Olot turned this trench into a highly valuable hiding place for criminals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique natural caves and rock shelters to visit in the L'Esquirol region?
The L'Esquirol area offers several distinctive natural formations. The Balma de la Riera de les Gorgues is notable for its impressive dimensions and the stream flowing through its interior, creating a scenic and refreshing spot. The Bauma del Salt d'en Nara is integrated with a picturesque waterfall and pool. Additionally, the Salt del Molí Bernat is a popular waterfall with an internal passage, combining a balma, waterfall, and mill remains.
Are there any caves with historical significance around L'Esquirol?
Yes, the region has several sites with historical importance. The Cave of the Pixarelles served as a lookout and hunting settlement during the Neolithic and Iberian periods, representing one of the oldest documented stable occupations in the area. The Bandoleros' Mine is a crevice historically known as a hiding place for bandits due to its strategic location near the Camino Real.
What kind of geological features can I expect to see in the caves of L'Esquirol?
The caves and rock shelters in the L'Esquirol region showcase diverse geological formations. You'll find large rock shelters (balmas) with impressive dimensions, some featuring water flowing through them or accumulating into pools. Caves like the Cova de l'Esquirol (in Mura) are formed in conglomerates and can feature distinctive rock windows and challenging internal steps. Smaller fissures, such as the Bora Petita d'en Masallera, offer insights into the region's intricate rock structures.
Are there any religious or cultural sites integrated with the caves?
Yes, the Oratory of Mare de Déu de les Olletes is a small religious building dug directly into the rock. It houses a Baroque alabaster image of the Virgin Mary and has origins dating back to the early 17th century, linked to the traditional finding of a Virgin Mary image in a 'pot' (depression) in the ground.
What are some good hiking opportunities near the caves in L'Esquirol?
The L'Esquirol area is excellent for hiking, with many trails leading to or near the caves. For instance, the Bauma del Salt d'en Nara is part of a natural ensemble that includes a waterfall and pool, accessible via various hiking trails. You can find numerous running trails in the area, such as the 'Church of Santa Maria de Corcó – La Foradada Waterfall and Mill loop from l'Esquirol', which offers a challenging 10 km route. Explore more options on the Running Trails around L'Esquirol guide.
Are there any caves suitable for families or less strenuous exploration?
While many caves in the region involve some level of hiking, the Cova del Villaret, located near the Ter River, offers a manageable exploration. It consists of a 15-meter gallery with a short crawlway, making it a less strenuous option for those looking for a simpler cave experience. Its proximity to the historical monastery of Sant Pere de Casserres also adds to its appeal.
What is the best time of year to visit the caves around L'Esquirol?
The L'Esquirol region, with its humid and shady environments around many caves and waterfalls, can be particularly refreshing during warmer months. However, to see waterfalls like the Salt del Molí Bernat in their full glory, visiting after periods of rain is recommended, despite potential muddy conditions. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploration.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the caves, besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the L'Esquirol area provides excellent opportunities for cycling. You can find various road cycling routes, such as the 'Church of Santa Maria de Corcó – Ter Museum loop from l'Esquirol', a moderate 40 km ride. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are challenging MTB trails like the 'Roda de Ter Bridge – Sau Dam loop from l'Esquirol', spanning nearly 60 km. Discover more cycling options on the Road Cycling Routes around L'Esquirol guide and the MTB Trails around L'Esquirol guide.
Are there any caves in the region that offer panoramic views?
Yes, the Cova de l'Esquirol, though located in Mura, is a significant cave in the broader region that features a unique rock window. After navigating some internal steps, this window offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Matarrodona hill, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking scenic vistas from within a cave.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the caves and natural sites in L'Esquirol?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty and geological formations. Sites like the Salt del Molí Bernat are highly valued for their impressive waterfalls and the unique experience of seeing water fall from inside a balma. The integration of caves with picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and gorges creates a tranquil and scenic environment, appealing to nature enthusiasts and those seeking exploration.
Is there a large rock shelter in the Collsacabra region near L'Esquirol?
Yes, the Bauma de les Piques is one of the largest rock shelters in the Collsacabra area. It measures 70 meters in width and up to 7 meters in depth, with a maximum height of 4 meters. Inside, it features two large rectangular sinks dug into the rock that collect water, adding to its unique character.
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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around L'Esquirol:
