Solo Adventure in Aigüestortes National Park

Mirror, Mirror: Exploring the Colomèrs Lakes

Today was all about losing myself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Colomèrs. As a software developer, I spend most of my days staring at screens, so a day like this, immersed in nature's artistry, is exactly the digital detox I crave. The crisp mountain air, the stunning reflections on the lake surfaces, and the sheer tranquility of the Pyrenees—it was an experience that rejuvenated my soul.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colomèrs in Lleida, a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike with stunning lakes and picturesque landscapes.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant El Bouquet. Fuelled up with some local flavors, I set off towards the Colomèrs, eager to witness the famed lake district. The plan was to hike around the Circ de Colomers, a collection of nearly 50 glacial lakes. I was especially excited, knowing that this area holds about a fifth of all the lakes of glacial origin within the park.


Explore the stunning Circ de Colomers, a hiker's haven in Lleida, where breathtaking landscapes and serene trails await your adventure.

The journey to the starting point was an adventure in itself. I took a train and then a local bus, eventually reaching a point where a taxi was necessary to navigate the rougher terrain. The taxi ride was bumpy but offered glimpses of the stunning landscape, heightening the anticipation for what lay ahead.

As I started my hike, the sheer scale of the Colomèrs became apparent. The trail wound its way through rocky paths, with the fall colors adding a vibrant touch to the scenery. The air was crisp, and the only sounds were the gentle lapping of water and the occasional bird call. It was a welcome change from the constant hum of Berlin.

The first lake I encountered was Estanh dera Lòssa. The path required crossing a peat bog via a wooden footbridge, which was a gentle reminder of the delicate ecosystem I was traversing. The views started to open up, revealing more and more of the surrounding peaks. I paused, took a deep breath, and felt a sense of gratitude for being able to experience this natural wonder.

Continuing on, I eventually reached the Major Lake of Colomèrs. The trail around it was a bit challenging, with some slippery and steep sections. I took my time, carefully placing each step, and was rewarded with stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The effort was definitely worth it. I could see the Colomèrs Dam, a testament to human engineering amidst this natural wonderland.

The beauty of the Colomèrs isn't just in the lakes themselves, but in the way they reflect the grandeur of the surrounding Pyrenees, creating a symphony of nature's finest artistry.

I continued my trek, passing by the Mòrt Lake. The trail led me up a small canal, and the landscape changed with every step. I decided to follow the yellow marks, which guided me towards the Garguilhs de Jos Lake. The path went up and down, crossing streams and navigating small basins. It was a moderately challenging hike, but the views kept me motivated.

As I hiked, I couldn’t help but reflect on my life back in Berlin. The flexibility of being a freelance software developer allows me to pursue these adventures, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Moments like these, surrounded by nature, remind me why I chose this path. The solitude allows me to clear my head and gain a fresh perspective on my work and life.

I made my way to Cabidornats Lake, carefully following the yellow marks around its perimeter. From there, it was on to the Long Lake, another gem in this chain of glacial waters. The views were simply breathtaking. I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this place, but no image could truly do it justice.

Around lunchtime, I stopped at Restaurant La Granja in Erill la Vall for a meal. The restaurant is known for its authentic Catalan dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. I enjoyed a hearty meal, savoring the flavors of the region. It was a perfect way to recharge before continuing my exploration.


Experience authentic Catalan cuisine at Restaurant La Granja in Erill la Vall – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

After lunch, I visited Pirineu Gourmet in Arties, a shop recommended for its local flavors and artisanal products. I picked up some local cheeses and cured meats, planning to enjoy them later at my campsite. Supporting local businesses is important to me, and it’s a great way to experience the culture of a place.


Explore the culinary delights of Pirineu Gourmet in Arties, where local flavors and artisanal products come together for an unforgettable gourmet experience.

My final stop for the day was Braseria L'Esquella in Esterri d'Àneu for dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Catalan dining experience, with hearty portions and flavorful dishes. I indulged in some grilled meats, a local specialty, and paired it with a regional wine. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a memorable end to a day of hiking.


Experience authentic Catalan flavors at Braseria L'Esquella in Esterri d'Àneu—where tradition meets taste in a cozy dining atmosphere.

As I sit here now, writing from my campsite, I can still feel the cool mountain air on my skin. The Colomèrs exceeded all my expectations. The sheer number of lakes, the stunning reflections, and the overall tranquility made it a truly unforgettable experience.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Cascada del Gerber and Estany de Gerber [reference itinerary of tomorrow]. I'm looking forward to more hiking and more stunning scenery. The weather forecast looks promising, so hopefully, I'll have another day of clear skies and sunshine. Before heading out, I plan to have breakfast at Restaurant Casa Turnay [reference itinerary of tomorrow].

Before settling in for the night, I realized I had forgotten to pack a raincoat and sunscreen [reference TravelDetails, TripEssentialsForgotten]. A rookie mistake, but I'll make do. The stars are out tonight, and the Milky Way is putting on a spectacular show. Camping solo in Aigüestortes is an experience I'll cherish forever. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the freedom and flexibility of my life as a freelance software developer.

I think that the beauty of the Colomèrs isn’t just in the lakes themselves, but in the way they reflect the grandeur of the surrounding Pyrenees. The way the landscape changes from rocky paths to lush meadows, and the sense of peace that washes over you as you hike through this natural wonderland. It’s an experience that I would recommend to anyone seeking a digital detox and a connection with nature.

I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure. Until then, goodnight from Aigüestortes!