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Estanys de Juclar hike (Andorra)

Carretera de la Vall d'Incles, Canillo, Canillo

Description

The 12km hike is an out and back trail to Estanys de Juclar (lake) and the Juclar Refuge is situated near the north-eastern border of Andorra with France, in the Incles Valley. There is moderate cumulative ascent of about 600m and the trail culminates at 2300m, making it suitable for inexperienced hikers as long as they have a base level of fitness. The estimated completion time is 3.5-4h depending on pace and duration of breaks.

Access & Transport

The trailhead is along Carretera de la Vall d'Incles, a road branching north from the CG-2 between El Tarter and Soldeu. There is plenty of parking shortly after the intersection and the road is closed off to vehicles in the summer.

Instructions & Recommendations

Make sure to bring proper footwear, some snacks (and possibly a picnic), plenty of water, sun protection and rain/wind coat depending on the weather forecast. Cloudy doesn't mean the UVs won't get to you and the weather changes quickly in the high mountains. Link to the Juclar Refuge: http://www.refugidejuclar.com/

Meta review

This is one of the most popular hikes in the valley, itself one of the busiest hiking destinations in Andorra in the summer. Reviewers confirm it is suitable for all levels, with a long initial stretch on paved road and fantastic views as one goes up to the lake. That last section may be challenging / snowed-in until May.

Environmental & Social

Eco-friendly activity. Socially marginally positive as it brings some revenues to the villages in the valley in the summer and the people running the refuge

Conclusion

The hike to the Juclar lake goes through sub-alpine flora up to high mountain scenery with glacial lakes and dominating views over the valley. It is easy to get to the trailhead and it will suit a group of hikers with heterogeneous experience and abilities.

Key positive

Beautiful and varied scenery

Popular trail but not crowded

Key negative

Time consuming to get to the trailhead from most cities in Catalunya/Spain (or France)

Suitability

Suitable for anybody with a decent fitness level (best for children > 10yrs old).

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
"Closed season" reflects the likelihood of inclement weather or the trail being unpracticable

av. transport time:1h

est. visit time:3h 45m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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