If you dream of adventure in the heart of the Pyrenees, the Aiguestortes and Estany de Sant Maurici National Park is the perfect place to travel. This picturesque corner of Catalonia attracts tourists with spectacular trails, crystal clear lakes and stunning mountain peaks. However, in order to preserve the unique nature of the park, certain rules apply here. Let’s find out how to organize a trip to enjoy the stunning views while respecting local restrictions.
How to Get to and Around the Park?
Travel in the park is strictly regulated. Private vehicles are prohibited, making the trip even more eco-friendly. However, in the towns of Espot and Boi, four-wheel drive cabs are available to take you to the park’s most iconic sites, such as the Aiguestortes Plain or the famous Lake Sant Maurici.
During the summer, a special cab service operates at the eastern entrance, in the Val d’Aran area, providing quick access to the shelters of Colomers or Restanca. If you choose to explore the park from the south side, an interesting climb awaits you—a cable car connects Sallente with the estancia of Gento, from where scenic day trips start.
Where to stay? Shelters and Refuges
Aiguestortes and Estany de Sant Maurici are paradises for lovers of multi-day hikes. However, pitching tents is forbidden here, so travelers should arrange overnight accommodation in advance. There are about ten protected shelters in the park and on its periphery, which are open during the warmest months of the year. In winter, some of them are open for Christmas and Easter, but places must be booked in advance.
Here are a few popular mountain refuges:
- Amitges – a convenient base for exploring the area around Lake St. Maurici.
- Colomers – a shelter in one of the most scenic areas of the park, amongst many glacial lakes.
- Colomina – a great starting point for those exploring the southern part of the park.
- Estani Llong – a secluded place to relax after a long hike.
- Restanca – a shelter popular with those who love the Carros de Foc route.
- Ventosa y Calvel – one of the most famous shelters in the park with stunning mountain views.
In addition to the protected shelters, the park has two unprotected but quite comfortable shelters: Mataro and Besiberry. These are great for those who prefer self-contained hikes and don’t plan to stay in serviced shelters.
Follow the Rules!
To ensure that the park retains its pristine beauty, strict environmental rules are in place. It is forbidden to collect plants, flowers, and mushrooms, as well as to hunt or fish. Any attempt to break these rules can result in a fine, so it’s best to enjoy nature while leaving it untouched.
The Aiguestortes and Estany de Sant Maurici National Park is the place to experience the true spirit of mountain adventure. The key is to prepare in advance, choose the right route and enjoy every moment in this stunning corner of the Pyrenees!