If you love lakes of the glacial variety then this is the place to visit. There are more than 200 of them packed in between peaks which soar up to nearly 3,000 metres. Looking at the map, there appears to be more water than land in some areas. Footpaths weave between the lakes; be it the GR-11 or offshoots of this magnificent trail, along with other options.
It is a joy and a privilege to be able to walk here and fortunately there are many ways in which you can do it. To enter from the south, bases can be established in the parallel valleys of the Vall Fosca or the Vall de Boí. Bear in mind that walks from villages in these areas will generally be in the sun for most of the day, which makes them difficult in the summer heat, but more preferable when snow and ice lie on the north-facing slopes.
Espot provides a gateway from the east. The GR-11.20 is just one of the fantastic footpaths that run up to the lakes and peaks, offering tantalising possibilities. And there is a terrific four-day traverse which can be done to Espot from the west, starting in Benasque in neighbouring Aragón region (Huesca province). This route runs through the heart of the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici national park on the GR-11. It makes use of the network of mountain refuges (refugio in Spanish; refugi in Catalan) in the area which provide meals and beds in dormitories.
Completing the four points of the compass, entry from the north comes via the Val d’Aran. There are plenty of options from this valley, which are better in the summer up the north-facing slopes. For day hikes, the walker would be reliant on having a car to drive up the lanes which lead to higher ground for good launchpads for walks. An alternative is to plan a multi-day walk, using these lanes or the GR-211.4 or GR-211.5 footpaths to gain access to the GR-11 and other trails, and then having a good romp around in this enchanting area.
One point to bear in mind is that the Pyrenees in general, and Aigüestortes in particular, are popular destinations in August, meaning that prices go up and advance booking is essential for accommodation.
Read more about the walking options around the glacial lakes of Cataluña in the following articles
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