The Colomèrs Lakes Trail from Baqueira | Hotel Tuc Blanc Baqueira

Discover the heart of the Aranese Pyrenees

When the weather improves, the Aran Valley becomes the perfect destination for exploring some of the Pyrenees’ most spectacular landscapes on foot.

The route to the Colomèrs Lakes is one of the most spectacular hikes in the Pyrenees, taking us to the Circ de Colomèrs – a vast amphitheatre formed during the Ice Age, where the melting ice revealed the largest concentration of lakes in the Pyrenees. The route is located on the outskirts of the Aigüestortes and Sant Maurici National Park.

How do I get from Baqueira to the Colomèrs Lakes?

By car, it is 12 km from our hotel in Baqueira to Banhs de Tredòs, via Salardú. From Banhs de Tredòs, there are two options:

Walk up to the mountain hut (a climb of about 4 km).
Take a 4×4 taxi, which operates during the summer season and saves you part of the climb. The service usually runs from 9.00 to 18.30.

The Colomèrs Lakes Trail

There are two routes to reach the Circ de Colomèrs;

For a first visit, the short circuit is one of the most interesting options, as it allows you to discover some of the most iconic lakes without making the hike overly demanding.

For more experienced walkers, the long Colomèrs circuit allows you to extend the hike and explore a larger part of the lake system.

Short circuit (known as the 7 Lakes Route)

Distance: 7–11 km (depending on whether you walk or take a taxi uphill).
Time: 3–4 hours.
Elevation gain: 250–500 m.
Difficulty: moderate.

This is the best option if you want to enjoy the scenery without undertaking a particularly demanding day’s walk.

Long Colomèrs Circuit

Distance: 15–16 km.
Time: 6–7 hours.
Elevation gain: around 700–800 m.
Difficulty: moderate to high.

This route reaches the top of the cirque and takes in even more lakes, offering stunning panoramic views of the entire glacial complex. You can check the route on the official website

What can you see along the route?

As well as the lakes, the route offers the chance to discover the flora and fauna typical of the high Pyrenean mountains. With a bit of luck, you might spot marmots, birds of prey or even a chamois in the quieter areas.

Of course, the real stars of the show are the mountains surrounding the cirque, which create a spectacular backdrop around each of the lakes. With waterfalls, torrents… It is one of the most photogenic landscapes in the whole of the Pyrenees.

Tips for enjoying the Colomèrs Lakes

Before setting off, it is important to always check the condition of the paths and the weather forecast. In the high mountains, the weather can change rapidly, even during the warmest months.
If a storm is forecast for the afternoon, it’s best to finish the route before midday.
Set off early in the morning, especially in July and August.
Take at least 1.5–2 litres of water and some food for the walk.
Hiking boots or trainers with good soles.
Warm clothing, even if it’s hot in the valley: above 2,000 m, the weather can change quickly.
Respect the paths and the nature reserve’s signage; do not leave the marked trails.
Do not leave any rubbish behind; enjoying the natural environment also means helping to preserve it.

One of the great advantages of staying at our hotel in Baqueira, Tuc Blanc, is being able to combine a relaxing break in the Aran Valley with day trips throughout August. After a day exploring the trails of Colomèrs, you can unwind at our spa in Baqueira and enjoy the tranquillity of the mountains, Aranese cuisine and everything the Aran Valley has to offer.