About this place
Roques Encantades ("Enchanted Rocks") is a cluster of massive moss-covered boulders hidden inside a beech forest near the town of les Planes d'Hostoles, in Catalonia's volcanic Garrotxa region. Perched along the Collsacabra ridge at over a thousand metres, the site has become a favourite for families and casual hikers looking for an easy, atmospheric walk.
What will you find at Roques Encantades?
The forest floor is scattered with huge stone blocks, several metres across, wrapped in a thick coat of moss that gives them an almost velvety, storybook look. The boulders sit among the trunks of an old beech wood, forming natural corridors and hidden nooks between the rocks. The damp, cool microclimate typical of Garrotxa's higher slopes keeps everything green year-round — moss covers not only the stones but also tree roots and trunks, giving the whole area the feel of a fantasy film set.
Where does the name "Enchanted Rocks" come from?
The Catalan name Roques Encantades refers to a local legend. According to the story, the devil used to roam the area and hurl stones at the nearby village of Planes d'Hostoles. Worn out, the villagers prayed for help until an angel finally chained the rocks to the ground, putting a stop to the devil's mischief. Frustrated, he is said to have left the region for good. Guides still share the tale with visitors, and it remains a favourite among children walking the trail.
How do you get there?
The easiest starting points are the car park at the Sanctuary of La Salut (Santuari de la Salut) or the Coll de Condreu pass. The trail itself is short, mostly flat, and takes around an hour round trip, making it suitable even for young children or hikers with no mountain experience. The path is clearly marked and ranks among the most popular family routes in the whole Garrotxa area.
When is the best time to visit?
Autumn is by far the most striking season: the beech leaves turn gold and red, while the damp air deepens the green of the moss on the rocks. It's also the busiest period — on autumn weekends the forest sees an average of roughly 700 visitors a day, a figure high enough that the local council has been looking at ways to ease pressure on this fragile ecosystem. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning is a good way to enjoy the site while it's still quiet and to see the forest in something closer to its natural, undisturbed state.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the walk to Roques Encantades take? The round trip takes about an hour, depending on your pace and how many stops you make among the rocks for photos.
Is the trail suitable for children? Yes, the terrain is gentle and largely flat, which is why it's regularly recommended as a family walk.
Where does the enchanted rocks legend come from? Local folklore tells of a devil who threw stones at the village until an angel chained the rocks to the ground to stop him.
How can I avoid the crowds? Aim for a weekday or an early morning visit — autumn weekends can draw several hundred visitors a day.
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