Salt de La Caula

Useful Information

Location:	Despoblat la Caula s/n, 17723 Les Escaules, Girona. From Figueres N-IIa to Pont de Molins, at roundabout follow road GIV-5041 through the village towards Les Escaules. At the Bar-Restaurante Salt de La Caula. (42.3180205, 2.8853500)
Open:	no restrictions. [2025]
Fee:	free. [2025]
Classification:	Tufa Deposits
Light:	n/a
Dimension:	H=30 m.
Guided tours:	self guided
Photography:	allowed
Accessibility:	no
Bibliography:
Address:	Bar restaurant Salt de la Caula, Despoblat la Caula s/n, 17723 Les Escaules, Girona
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

1920	restaurant built at the waterfall.
1980	archaeological excavation at the waterfall.
2023	restaurant closed.

Description

The Salt de La Caula (La Caula Waterfall) is a typical tufa deposit, the limestone which is dissolved in the water of the river is deposited forming porous tufa. The forms are quite typical, bulbuous protrusions with small caves, and a sort of conical rock at the waterfall. The intensive blue colour of the water is an impressive reminder of the high limestone content of the water, which originates form a nearby karst spring. The pool at the foot of the waterfall, which was formed by deposition of tufa, is a popular bathing spot for thge locals. And it seems it was a popular bathing spot for the last 60,000 years, as an excavation in 1980 proofed. They found polished stones and ceramics, as well as lithic industry artifacts of the lower-mid Palaeolithic.

The waterfall has very little water during summer and autumn. After heavy rains, mostly during winter, the water may rise and there is a massive waterfall with brown water.

The waterfall is a spectacular sight from the terrace of the restaurant and bar Salt de la Caula. You have a nice view while dining local food. Unfortunately the restaurant closed in 2023 and has not reopened yet. We heard a rumour that there was a landslide which caused the closure and also destroyed the pool at the waterfall. Although it is closed, there are a few parking lots at the road and the trail to the waterfall is accessible. Just be aware that it is private property and be polite if you meet the owner.