EHere in Andorra, we are very fortunate to be surrounded by nature: more than 90% of the territory is free from urbanisation, we have lush forests filled with vegetation, rivers that flow through mountains and valleys, 60 peaks at altitudes above 2,000 metres and 70 spectacular lakes.
Among all this natural wonder are 3 exquisitely charming lakes that can be accessed by the whole family and we are going to focus on them today. Do you fancy a bit of (easy) hiking to get to them?
Easily accessible via the route from Escaldes, or Els Cortals de Encamp if you feel like walking a bit farther. This is a perfect excursion for the little ones, as you’ll be able to comfortably circle the lake without difficulty. Nearby you’ll find leisure facilities like restaurants, an adventure park with lianas and bridges suspended between the trees. There are also routes organised by the electricity museum and, if you head up there this summer, you’ll find an exhibition of open-air works known as Andorra Land Art: a festival that takes place every two years, uniting nature and art in different natural sites around the country. If you want to lengthen your route, you can follow Les Pardines path (3 km) which will give you stunning views of Encamp and its mountains. This route is a starting point for other trekking routes that go into the high mountains and this year it will also welcome the La Vuelta cycling race.
To get here you need to drive to the Grandvalira resort, in the Grau Roig sector. This route is accessible to the whole family, the path climbs but only at a moderate angle. Start at the forest trail that leaves the Cubil car park and head up to the first lake (if you’re taking very young children or you don’t feel like hiking, you can jump on a 4×4 bus to your destination).
You’ll find a restaurant next to the first lake, its terrace is the perfect spot to relax and appreciate the natural views. And if you’ve still got the strength, and only if your physical fitness is up to the task, we encourage you to keep going until you reach the other Pessons lakes – even though the view of the Pessons glacial cirque from the first lake is magnificent all by itself. You’ll see peaks that reach an altitude of up to 2,800 metres, like Montmalús and Pessons.
The route to the 3 lakes starts at the Arcalís ski slope in the parish of Ordino. It is a circular trail that takes about 2 and a half hours with gentle ascents and descents that can be managed with children. Despite being an intermediate-level hike, you will need to be well equipped as it’s a high mountain trail.
And if you’re left wanting more water, get your swimsuit on and come and enjoy Caldea. If you visit during August, don’t miss the Aküa show which can be seen every night from 3 to 24 August if you purchase night admission.
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