Fall in love with the Aigüestortes National Park and Lake San Mauricio

by / Friday, 10 August 2018 / Published in News

When you think of Catalonia, you probably think of those beautiful coves bathed by the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, but there is much more. The spectacular National Park of Aigüestortes (in Catalan aigüestortes means tortuous waters) and Lake San Mauricio, the only one of its kind in the entire region, are good examples of this diversity. Do not hesitate to include them in your bespoke holidays in Spain!

 

Wild Pyrenees

In the Aigüestortes National Park and Lake San Mauricio you will discover one of the best natural samples of the Pyrenees. You’ll see summits of more than 3,000 meters high and numerous ponds and lakes with shapes of all kinds. It is, without a doubt, an exceptional alternative for lovers of nature and outdoor sports. No matter what season you are in, you can enjoy activities that range from hiking to snowshoeing. Without forgetting cultural activities of all kinds, such as exhibitions and conventions to convey the richness of this place and the need to preserve this privileged environment.

This natural park has around 80 lakes. You should not miss those of Llebreta, Serradé, Contraix, Mussoles, Monges or San Mauricio, all of them idyllic spots surrounded by mountain formations and forests. Undoubtedly, a natural ecosystem that will recharge your batteries in your return to civilization.

 

Unique flora and fauna

The flora and fauna of this national park is very rich and varied. There are numerous deciduous forests, with species such as oak, ash, beech and hazel, as well as boxwood and wild pines. The vegetation changes as you gain altitude. Thus, from 1,500 meters, you can find black pines and shrubs such as rhododendron and blueberry. Above, especially in the most humid places, immense spruce forests are imposed. The groves turn into alpine pastures at the highest levels (from 2,300 meters).

The fauna, although a little shy (you have to have a lot of patience to see it), is also one of the great attractions of this park. Capercaillies, golden eagles, griffon vultures and bearded vultures, as well as marmots, falcons and Pyrenean newts, are some of the species that inhabit this wonderful place.

 

A wide network of refuges

Mountaineers who wish to spend several days in this environment have nothing to worry about. Aigüestortes has a wide network of refuges where visitors can spend the night without any problem at a very affordable price (it is compulsory to book in advance). However, if you want to oervnight in an special boutique hotel in the area, leave us that hard work for us. We’ll take you to some of the best, more comfortable and idyllic accommodations around.

Regarding the routes, there are alternatives of a day that will allow you to enjoy a natural scenario like few others. Beside, the most advanced hikers can try the Carros de Fuego route, 55 kilometers long and 9,200 meters of cumulative altitude that is recommended to be completed in a minimum of three days. It consists of completing a route that connects the nine existing refuges within the national park.

 

Have we convinced you? It’s then time to get in touch with us. We know how to give a unique touch to your sports vacations in Spain.

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