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Estanys de la Vall del Riu

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Lake
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Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)

Weather…

The Estanys de la Vall del Riu are a collection of remarkable high-altitude glacial lakes positioned within a mountain cirque in the parish of Canillo. The largest of these lakes is situated at an elevation of roughly 2,530 meters, surrounded by the imposing ridges of Pic de la Portelleta and Pic de l'Estanyó. These water bodies are quintessential features of the Andorran Pyrenees, characterized by their crystal-clear water and nutrient-poor status typical of alpine environments. The surrounding landscape consists of alpine meadows and vast scree slopes, providing essential habitats for Pyrenean chamois and marmots. During the summer months, the lakes are a favored destination for seasoned hikers, with the ascent through the Vall del Riu offering deep insights into the glacial geomorphology of the area. The lakes play a vital role in the local watershed and support populations of native trout adapted to sub-zero winter temperatures. Conservation of this delicate ecosystem is paramount for sustaining the region's unique high-altitude biodiversity.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-2-21591416161282-1
Rain mm604857717752464750647049

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The trek traditionally begins from the mountain roads heading towards the Ransol or Forn areas above Canillo. It is widely known for being a much quieter, less heavily trafficked route.
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Best season
Mid-summer to early autumn is the strongly recommended time frame for this hike to fully appreciate the pristine valley and avoid lingering, dangerous snowpacks.
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Terrain & paths
The ascent is notably long and challenging, moving from forested lower sections into rugged, high-alpine granite environments. It is a demanding route meant for individuals with good endurance.
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What to bring
High-grade mountain boots, a comprehensive layering system, emergency gear, and plenty of provisions are essential. Navigational tools can also be helpful on the sparsely marked upper sections.
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Parking
Small, informal parking zones are typically scattered along the mountain roads near the trailheads above Canillo. Arriving early ensures a secure spot in these relatively limited spaces.
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Safety
Given the valley's deep isolation and rugged nature, hikers must be highly self-sufficient and observant of weather patterns. Mobile phone reception can be spotty in the deeper parts of the valley.
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Time needed
This challenging excursion is typically a full-day commitment, requiring approximately six to eight hours of solid hiking to reach the remote lakes and return safely.

Geography

Coordinates
42.59120, 1.62560

Facts

  • The primary lake is positioned at an altitude of 2,530 meters above sea level.
  • These lakes were formed by glacial activity approximately 10,000 years ago.
  • They are located deep within the Vall del Riu in the northeast of Andorra.
  • The lakes support brown trout (Salmo trutta), which thrive in the cold, clear water.
  • The area is a known habitat for the rare Pyrenean desman, a semi-aquatic mammal.
  • The hiking trail to the lakes typically commences from the village of Ransol.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Red-billed Chough on PasturesRed-billed Chough on Pastures<1 km · SWExplore →
Mushroom Foraging Areas CanilloMushroom Foraging Areas Canillo1 km · EExplore →
MolleresMolleres2 km · SExplore →
El TarterEl Tarter3 km · SEExplore →
El VilarEl Vilar3 km · SWExplore →
Serra de l'EstanyoSerra de l'Estanyo4 km · WExplore →
Estany de Cabana SordaEstany de Cabana Sorda4 km · EExplore →
Stoat Mountain MeadowsStoat Mountain Meadows4 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Estanys de la Vall del Riu (6)

Pic de Torradella

Pic de Torradella is a mountain in Andorra, a peak in the Pyrenees.

Pic de la Pala Alta

Pic de la Pala Alta is a mountain in Andorra, part of the mountain range.

Pont Tibetà de Canillo

Pont Tibetà de Canillo is a suspension bridge in Canillo, Andorra, for hikers.

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Cap de la Tosa d'Entor

Cap de la Tosa d'Entor is a mountain in Andorra, a peak in the Pyrenees.

Sant Pere del Tarter

Sant Pere del Tarter is a church in Canillo, Andorra, a historic building.

Sant Joan de Caselles

Sant Joan de Caselles is a church in Canillo, Andorra, from the 12th century.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How to reach Estanys de la Vall del Riu?
The hiking trail starts from the Ransol Valley. It is a moderately difficult climb of about 3 hours.
Is swimming allowed in the lakes?
Swimming in these mountain lakes is permitted, but the water remains extremely cold even in summer.
Are there any mountain shelters nearby?
Yes, the Refugi de la Vall del Riu is an unstaffed shelter nearby for hikers.
When does the snow melt here?
Typically, the lakes are snow-free and accessible from late June until October.
Is special equipment needed?
Good hiking boots and weatherproof clothing are essential due to the alpine terrain.
Estanys de la Vall del Riu: where is it located?
Estanys de la Vall del Riu is located in Andorra.
Estanys de la Vall del Riu: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pic de Torradella, Pic de la Pala Alta, Pont Tibetà de Canillo.
Estanys de la Vall del Riu: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Estanys de la Vall del Riu: why is it worth visiting?
The Estanys de la Vall del Riu are a collection of remarkable high-altitude glacial lakes positioned within a mountain cirque in the parish of Canillo.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nature

Pic de l&#39;Estanyó — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Pic de l'Estanyó
This peak is the second highest mountain in Andorra, offering views of the nearby Estanyó lake.
Estany de Cabana Sorda — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Estany de Cabana Sorda
A circular mountain lake in the Incles Valley, flanked by a mountain refuge of the same name.
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Pic de Racó Gaudre
Pic de Racó Gaudre lies at 2,610 meters altitude and offers a rugged mountain panorama.
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Pic de Serra Secca
Pic de Serra Secca is a 2,730-meter-high mountain near the border with Spain.
Pic de la Canal de Riba — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Pic de la Canal de Riba
Pic de la Canal de Riba is a prominent peak in Ordino with a height of 2,645 meters.
Pic de Bastenies — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Pic de Bastenies
Pic de Bastenies is located in northwestern Andorra and reaches 2,628 meters.
Pic de Casamanya — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Pic de Casamanya
This mountain is located in the geographical center of the country, separating the valleys of Ordino and Canillo.
Pic de la Sella de les Ones — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Pic de la Sella de les Ones
This 2,650-meter-high peak belongs to the Encamp massif.

More places

Sant Serni de Canillo — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Sant Serni de Canillo
The largest church in the Canillo parish, built in Baroque style over a Romanesque foundation.
Fire Salamander Damp Forests — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Fire Salamander Damp Forests
Damp, shady forests throughout Andorra provide a habitat for the striking fire salamander.
Serra de l&#39;Estanyo — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Serra de l'Estanyo
Serra de l'Estanyo is a mountain ridge that connects the Pic de l'Estanyo with the surrounding massifs.
Motorcycle Museum — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Motorcycle Museum
A museum in Canillo documenting the history of the motorcycle from its beginnings to the present.
Serra de l&#39;Obaga — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Serra de l'Obaga
Serra de l'Obaga is an elongated mountain ridge in the central Pyrenees of Andorra.
Serra de Ensagents — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Serra de Ensagents
Serra de Ensagents is a prominent mountain ridge in the Encamp parish.
Serra del Padern — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Serra del Padern
Serra del Padern is a small mountain range that separates the valleys between La Massana and Ordino.
Ptarmigan High Altitudes — Estanys de la Vall del Riu (Andorra)
Ptarmigan High Altitudes
The rock ptarmigan is found in the highest, rockiest areas of Andorra, changing its plumage with the seasons.