A trip to the Estany de Banyoles and its surrounding area is, undoubtedly, the Pla de l’Estany trail par excellence.
As well as the many activities available at the lake, the beauty of the setting is exceptional.
Other interesting spots are just a stone’s throw from the lake, such as the Desmais (weeping willows), El Vilar and the old town canals.
A Visit to the Estany de Banyoles: The Estany de Banyoles is an ecologically valuable area. Alongside the series of small surrounding lakes, it is the most important karstic lacustrine system in the country. Its scientific value is recognised the world over.
The Desmais and El Vilar: The Desmais are an ideal spot to enjoy the lake’s peace and quiet. The leaning trees with the branches brushing the water and the two old fountains – El Ferro and La Filosa – make this a very pleasant spot to wander around, mainly in summer, thanks to the much appreciated shade of the trees. The trail may be continued to El Vilar, where there is a tree-filled grove containing white acacias, alders and weeping willows. The area has, for the past few years, hosted the old, traditional and very busy Aplec de la Sardana (Banyoles Sardana Meeting) on the first Sunday in July. The first meeting dates back to 1934.
The Fountain of El Vilar, next to the small lake with the same name, has stone seats inviting strollers to rest and share a chat.
The Canals: The Benedictine monks channelled the waters from the lake in the 9th century to achieve fertile areas for crops and waterfalls to move hydraulic wheels. When technology took away the traditional industrial use of the canal, they were only used to irrigate allotments and fields. The town also grew and, gradually, the canals became sewers. All this meant the canals were buried along many urban sections.