3 lagos de Andorra

Three lakes in Andorra to splash around in summer

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 Arcalís. 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 Arcalís 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.

rutas fáciles con perro

Easy dog-friendly trails in Andorra: 3 perfect options for you and your pet

Summer is here! And it’s the perfect time for those who want to spend some quality time with their pets in the countryside.
Andorra is a great place to come and enjoy the mountains, which hide some incredible places to go with your dog. From routes for those who like to go out and test themselves on the most complicated slopes to those who prefer a more leisurely walk. Both options have one thing in common: wherever you go, you’ll enjoy the surroundings.

3 easy dog walks for everyone

We show you ways to have fun with your pet in Andorra with three easy routes so you can go whether you have a large, small or senior dog. They are ideal for enjoying nature effortlessly and ensuring your dog is comfortable and safe. Don’t leave anyone at home and experience unforgettable moments with your faithful friend in these beautiful landscapes!

Trekking to l’Estany Primer de Pessons

The first excursion is near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, in the Grau Roig sector of Grandvalira. It is a good option for an easy hike with your dog and to discover a mountain lake located at an altitude of 2300 metres.
Duration: approximately 1.30 hours
Difficulty level: easy to moderate
Distance: 1.5 km
Start at the car park in the Cubil area, where you will find the signs that will take you through the forest to the lake. As the climb is not very difficult, you can observe nature while your dog enjoys discovering an environment different from his own. Once you reach Primer de Pessons lake, you can stop with your dog at the refuge’s restaurant. To go back down, you can go back down the same way you came up or return along the forest track. If you are up for it, a good option is to reach the other lakes of Pessons, although from here the route is somewhat harder.

Inter-parish path from Prats to Engolasters

This route is much longer, but has hardly any gradient. You will enjoy an accessible trail that has it all: Romanesque churches, breathtaking views, forest and rest points.
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: easy
Distance: 11.8 km
It is called inter-parish because it crosses Canillo, Encamp and Escaldes. As Els Llacs Mountain Apartments is in Canillo, we recommend you start here from the church of Sant Miquel de Prats to get to Sant Miquel d’Engolasters. Although it is not difficult at all, because you will hardly notice the 200 metres of difference in altitude, you should plan to walk 4 hours with your dog on the way there and 4 more on the way back. In addition, of course, you should bring enough water and food for everyone. In this article you will find tips for hiking with your dog in the mountains.

The Comapedrosa interpretative circuit

This circular hike is ideal for the whole family, as it is highly recommended for the youngest members of the family. It is located in the Comapedrosa Natural Park, in the parish of La Massana.
Duration: 1.30 hours
Difficulty: easy
Distance: 1.2 km
On this walk you will follow 10 panels that will help you to get to know nature at close quarters, to identify the environment and the terrain. While you follow the indications, your pet will also enjoy an outdoor excursion. It starts at the picnic area of the Pollós river and ends at the Arinsal dam.

You can come to Els Llacs Mountain Apartments with your dog

So that your holiday is 100% complete, we don’t leave anyone at home. In our holiday rentals you will find the comfort and space you need to accommodate the whole family. Discover the flat you like best and book at the best prices on our website. Don’t miss out on our discounts for early booking or for staying more than 4 nights.
Finally, you just need to choose one of the three easy routes with dog that you like 😉. If you want to know more places, be sure to check out our blog where we talk about many more.

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