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Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park: A Pyrenean Paradise

Discover Catalonia's only national park: A Pyrenean wonderland of winding streams, glacial lakes, and majestic peaks. Hike, explore, and immerse yourself in nature.

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Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, the only national park in Catalonia, is a stunning alpine landscape in the heart of the Pyrenees. Renowned for its winding streams (aigüestortes), glacial lakes (estany), and towering peaks, it's a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking breathtaking scenery.

A brief summary to Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking, and bring layers as the temperature can vary with altitude.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking.
  • Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Pick up detailed trail maps at the visitor centers to help plan your routes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Barcelona, take a train to Lleida. From Lleida, take a bus to Espot. From Espot, a shuttle bus or 4x4 taxi can take you to the park entrance. Bus tickets from Barcelona to La Guingueta range from €21-€35. A taxi from Espot to Sant Maurici lake costs approximately €4.45 per trip.

  • Car

    From Lleida, take the C-13 road north towards Sort. From Sort, follow the signs to Espot. In summer, you can drive to the Prat de Pierró parking lot near the park entrance. Parking fees range from €5-€10 per day. From the parking lot, it is a 3km walk to Sant Maurici Lake.

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Discover more about Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park

Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, meaning "The winding streams and St. Maurice lake," is a captivating natural preserve located in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees. Established in 1955, it is Catalonia's only national park, encompassing a core area of 141 square kilometers and a surrounding buffer zone of 267 square kilometers. The park spans four distinct Pyrenean regions: Alta Ribagorça, Pallars Sobirà, Pallars Jussà, and Val d'Aran. The park's landscape is characterized by its high-mountain environment, with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,000 meters. Water is a prominent feature, with nearly 200 lakes of glacial origin, numerous rivers, and winding streams that give the park its name. The park boasts four major vegetation zones: lower montane, upper montane, subalpine, and alpine, supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the Pyrenean chamois, marmots, golden eagles and the elusive brown bear. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all levels. Hiking is a popular pursuit, with over 50 marked trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. The park also offers opportunities for mountaineering, climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Popular attractions include the iconic Estany de Sant Maurici, a glacial lake reflecting the majestic Els Encantats peaks, and the Aigüestortes Valley, known for its meandering streams and wetlands. Several visitor centers provide information, maps, and guided tours to help visitors explore the park's hidden secrets. Access to the park is regulated, with private vehicles restricted from the interior. Shuttle services and 4x4 taxis are available from the nearby towns of Espot and Boí to access key areas.

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