Summer is in full swing and the good weather invites you to go out and enjoy the great outdoors. In Andorra, there are so many options that it’s hard to choose. And of course, nature and the mountains are the stars of the show! To make the most of them, we suggest 3 hikes to discover some of Andorra’s lakes. Perhaps you already know them or maybe they are new to you. Best of all, there is one for every type of hiker.
Tristaina lakes: the perfect adventure with children
These three lakes are located at an altitude of 2,300 metres: Estany Primer, Estany del Mig and Estany de Més Amunt. This is one of the most popular summer hikes in Ordino, an area that has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Perfect for the whole family, it is classified as moderate difficulty. It takes approximately 40 minutes to walk from the access point to the first lake.
If you dare to reach the 3 lakes of Tristaina, the circular walk is 4.40 kilometres long and takes approximately 3 hours to be completed. It has a gradient of 200 metres, with ascents and descents until you reach Estany de Més Amunt, which is the only one that allows bathing during the summer.
The starting point is Coma de ArcalÃs. You can only get there before 8.30 am by car, on foot or by taking the cable car (for a fee). From mid-June to mid-September, the road to the Coma de ArcalÃs is closed from 8.30am to 5pm and only allows access on foot or by bicycle.
Cabana Sorda Lake near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments
The Cabana Sorda Lake is located in the Incles Valley, about 15 minutes by car from our appartments. The walk to the lake is 2.76 km long, with a difference in altitude of 470 metres, and is classified as a route of moderate difficulty. Some of the climbs are demanding, but the scenery is wonderful. The excursion runs through woods and meadows and offers spectacular views of the whole valley of Canillo. In some open areas, you will be able to see the ski slopes of El Tarter and Soldeu, as well as the peaks that surround the valley.
The start of the trail to reach Cabana Sorda is halfway along the Incles Valley road. You can get there on foot after leaving your car in the car park at the start of the valley, as the road is closed to traffic in summer.
The Estany de la Nou: crossing a nature reserve
This is a much more challenging route, recommended for those in good physical condition for walking in the mountains. It is 7.1 km long and has a positive difference in altitude of 1151m. It is located in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, one of the 3 natural parks of Andorra and the only one in the Pyrenees declared a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO. This lake’s waters are not as cold as those of other lakes, as they are fed by groundwater from the subsoil, which has a higher temperature. One of the access points is on the Comella road in Andorra la Vella, which can be reached by car.
Fun continues when you come down the mountain
Andorra is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering trails for all levels. And the experience doesn’t end when you come down the mountain. You can complete your hiking routes to Andorra’s lakes with a wide variety of activities. From relaxing in thermal spas such as Caldea, to exploring the rich heritage in museums or cultural tours, or simply enjoying open-air festivals and concerts or the country’s gastronomy.
Add experiences and enjoy the best rest in Els Llacs Mountain Apartments.
