Sant Maurici Lake Loop hike
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Sant Maurici lake - by Héctor J. Rivas on Unsplash
Description
The Sant Maurici Lake hike takes place in the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, one of the Spanish Pyrenees most scenic areas with nearly 200 lakes, mostly of glacial origin. The 7.5km out and back starts at the Prat de Pierró parking lot, 3km from Espot, and has an unchallenging cumulative ascent of about 300m on untechnical track, making it suitable for novice hikers and families. The estimated completion time is 2.5h depending on fitness and duration of breaks. Note that for those with more time and a good degree of fitness it is possible to carry on past Sant Maurici lake past the waterfall and the lake of Ratera until the Amitges Refuge; this adds 600m of ascent and 10km return.
Access & Transport
The closest town is Espot, 34km north of Sort on the C-13. Sort is in northern Catalunya, 3h30' to the northwest of Barcelona and 70km / 1h15 drive to the southwest of Andorra la Vella. In peak season the Prat de Pierró parking fills up but there are taxis (departing when full) plying the route. For those driving camper vans you will need to park in town (max length to the parking is 5m).
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.
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity. Socially marginally positive as it brings some revenues to the villages in the area
Conclusion
This is mountain hiking as one imagines it with rocky peaks, blue lakes, some forest and nice single-track trails. The region is quite isolated but with patience and a car, it is relatively easy to get to the trailhead and the hike can be enjoyed by almost anyone.
Key positive
Beautiful high mountain scenery with glacial lakes
Key negative
Time consuming to get to the trailhead from most cities in Catalunya
Suitability
Suitable for anybody with a decent fitness level (best for children > 8yrs old). This hike is not accessible for anybody with reduced mobility.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 30m
est. visit time:3h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo