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Tristaina Lakes
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Lake
The Tristaina Lakes (Estanys de Tristaina) are a set of three high-mountain glacial lakes located at the heart of a striking natural cirque in the parish of Ordino. Accessible via a relatively easy hike from the top of the Ordino-Arcalís ski resort, they are among the most visited natural attractions in Andorra. The three lakes are the Estany Primer (First Lake), Estany del Mig (Middle Lake), and the largest, Estany de Més Amunt (Furthest Lake). The surrounding peaks, including the Pic de Tristaina, create a spectacular amphitheater of rock and scree. In 2021, a solar viewpoint monument, the 'Mirador Solar de Tristaina', was installed on a nearby peak, offering both a unique sundial function and sweeping views of the lakes and mountains.
- Location: Andorra
- Top sights: Roc del Vaquer · Mirador Solar de Tristaina · Punta de Peiraguils
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -2 | 1 | 5 | 9 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 12 | 8 | 2 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 60 | 48 | 57 | 71 | 77 | 52 | 46 | 47 | 50 | 64 | 70 | 49 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Tristaina Lakes is accessible via regional roads and marked paths. Visitors usually find entry points providing clear initial orientation for arrival.
Best season
Favorable conditions typically occur during warmer months from spring to autumn. Off-season visits to the lake are possible with preparation.
Terrain & paths
The local terrain features varied natural surfaces, ranging from maintained paths to uneven ground. Explorers should be prepared for all changes.
What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes with good grip are recommended to handle the surfaces safely. Carrying sufficient water and sun protection is also advised. Layered clothing is highly recommended.
Parking
Official parking facilities are usually situated near primary access points. Arriving early in the morning is generally an effective strategy.
Safety
Mobile network coverage can be unreliable in remote sections, making a map very useful. Visitors should always adhere to the marked trails here. Inform someone of your planned route beforehand.
Time needed
A standard visit usually takes from two to several hours depending on activities. Allocate at least a half-day to complete the main highlights. Take time to appreciate the environment.
Geography
Facts
- Located at an altitude between 2,250 and 2,330 meters.
- The largest lake, Estany de Més Amunt, covers 12 hectares.
- The trail to the lakes is part of the 'Iron Route'.
- The lakes are frozen and snow-covered in winter.
- A new 'Solar Viewpoint' was opened in 2021.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Tristaina Lakes (4)
Mirador Solar de Tristaina
Viewpoint with a sundial, overlooking the Tristaina Lakes.
Punta de Peiraguils
Mountain on the border between France and Andorra.
Pic de l'Albeille
Peak in the Pyrenees, near the border between Andorra and France.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How many lakes are there?
It is a group of three mountain lakes.
Is the trail suitable for children?
Yes, it is one of the most popular family hikes.
Where do you start?
At the parking lot of the Ordino-Arcalís ski resort.
Can you swim in the lakes?
The water is very cold, but a quick dip is allowed.
What is the altitude?
The lakes are at an altitude of about 2300 meters.
Tristaina Lakes: where is it located?
Tristaina Lakes is located in Andorra.
Tristaina Lakes: what is there to see?
Highlights include Roc del Vaquer, Mirador Solar de Tristaina, Punta de Peiraguils.
Tristaina Lakes: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Tristaina Lakes: why is it worth visiting?
The Tristaina Lakes (Estanys de Tristaina) are a set of three high-mountain glacial lakes located at the heart of a striking natural cirque in the parish of Ordino.
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Nearby cities
Riu de Tristaina
The river that descends from the famous Tristaina Lakes, flowing through the upper Ordino valley.
Els Plans
A high plateau near El Serrat, serving as a starting point for mountain excursions.
Llorts
A village famous for its iron mine and the 'Iron Route', which honors the region's iron industry past.
Casa Molines
A historic manor house that is part of a small hamlet near Ordino.
La Massana
Known for direct access to the Pal-Arinsal ski area and Andorra's highest mountain, Coma Pedrosa.
Borda de Rossell
An area named after a traditional Andorran hut, now housing a restaurant.
Erts
A small village at the strategic crossroads of the roads to Arinsal and Pal.
Jan dels Plans
A residential area with modern houses and apartments in La Massana.
El Vilar
A small residential settlement with views over the Canillo valley.
Molleres
A small village in the Canillo valley, known for its sunny location and traditional architecture.
Padola
A small, high-altitude neighborhood with breathtaking views.
Les Ortes
A small agricultural area close to Encamp.
El Tarter
A village next to Soldeu, offering access to the Grandvalira ski area and known for its snowpark.
Pla dels Vilars
A flat plateau within the residential area of Els Vilars.
Nature
Pic de Tristaina
Pic de Tristaina is a 2,878-meter peak on the border between Andorra and France.
Pic de Cataperdis
The 2,805-meter-high Pic de Cataperdis belongs to the Tristaina mountain chain.
Pic de Font Blanca
A prominent peak on the border with France, known for its steep slopes.
Pic de Medacorba
This peak marks the tripoint where the borders of Andorra, Spain, and France meet.
Pic de l'Estanyó
This peak is the second highest mountain in Andorra, offering views of the nearby Estanyó lake.
🗺️
Pic de Serra Secca
Pic de Serra Secca is a 2,730-meter-high mountain near the border with Spain.
Pic de Comaloforno
This peak reaches 2,650 meters and is known for its demanding ridge connections.
Pic d'Aixeus
Pic d'Aixeus is a 2,227-meter-high mountain in southern Andorra.
More places
Jubba Valley Basin
A fertile lowland basin along the Jubba river.
Capercaillie Forests Ordino
The old-growth forests in the Ordino valley are one of the few places in Andorra to find the elusive capercaillie.
Coma Pedrosa
The highest mountain in Andorra, with an elevation of 2,942 meters, located in the northwest of the country.
Bosc de la Devesa
A dense forest of Scots pines and firs located above Ordino.
Wild Berry Harvesting in Ordino
In late summer, wild raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries can be foraged in the forests and slopes of Ordino.
Sheep and Goat Farms Ordino
In Ordino, there are several small farms that raise sheep and goats for the production of cheese and meat.
Ibex Reintroduction Zone
Ibex have been successfully reintroduced in the Sorteny Natural Park and can now be seen roaming the high slopes.
Red Squirrel Pine Forests
The pine forests in La Massana are full of red squirrels, jumping from cone to cone.