Hotel L'Ast is in Banyoles

Banyoles has always been mirrored in the waters of its lake, which measures two kilometres long and six kilometres in circumference. It has been inhabited since ancient times, testimony to which is found in its prehistoric sites (such as La Draga Neolithic Park). Banyoles lake is fed by underground springs and aquifers and drains
into the River Terri through five outlets that cross Banyoles.

From the air, it has a figure-of-eight shape, although its lake system comprises a series of small ponds that change over time. Located behind the Empordà plain, above which, to the west, rises the Rocacorba range, the lake sustains lush vegetation and gives life to many aquatic birds. Its setting is suited to hiking and family tourism as well as sports lovers and those seeking peace and tranquillity. The town of Banyoles stands on the western shore.

Capital of the comarca of Pla de l’Estany, the town grew up around the Benedictine Monastery of Sant Esteve (Neoclassical building on Gothic ruins). The system of irrigation canals draining the lake was soon used for crops and industries (textiles, paper, flour and hemp).

The Gothic Church of Santa Maria dels Turers, the Llotja del Tint (once a factory for dyeing fabrics), the Pia Almoina (14th-century charitable institution) and the porticoed Plaça Major bear testimony to its status as a capital still held to this day.

The Archaeological Museum exhibits the famous Banyoles jaw, the remains of the oldest (Lower Palaeolithic) Catalan man, and the Darder Museum, featuring a fine natural history collection.

Given its long-standing rowing and canoeing tradition, the town played host to the Olympic Games rowing events in 1992 and the World Rowing Championship in 2004. Visitors can engage in a wide variety of sports here.