Top 8 Lakes around Seira
Best lakes around Seira are characterized by their alpine settings, often found at high altitudes within the Pyrenees. The region features both natural ibones, which are glacial lakes, and man-made reservoirs. These bodies of water are integral to the local environment, supporting hydroelectric power and offering recreational opportunities. Seira's lakes are often nestled in glacial cirques, providing distinct natural features.
Best lakes around Seira
- The most popular lakes is Ibón of Plan (Basa de la Mora), a lake located at an altitude of 1,910 meters that fills up after the thaw each winter. It is known as "Basa de la Mora" due to a local legend.
- Another must-see spot is Linsoles Reservoir, a lake built in the 1960s to collect water for hydroelectric power. It is one of 3 reservoirs of the Ésera river in the Benasque valley.
- Visitors also love Lago de Eriste, a lake built in the 1960s as part of the Eriste Hydroelectric Power Station. A pleasant path runs along its left bank with numerous benches and picnic tables.
- Seira is known for its glacial ibones and man-made reservoirs. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from high-altitude natural formations to bodies of water used for power generation.
- The lakes around Seira are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 30 upvotes and over 20 photos shared.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Ibón of Plan (Basa de la Mora)
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The name of Basa de la Mora (or "Basa la Mora" in Aragonese) comes from a local folktale according to which a Moorish princess drowned in this lake while trying to escape Christian troops. According to this legend, during the night of San Juan, people who wash their faces with the lake water can see the princess dancing on the surface.
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Linsoles Reservoir
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Lago de Eriste
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Ibón del Sen
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All Aragonese lakes are protected as they are included in the Inventory of Singular Wetlands, so any activity that could modify the quality of their waters is prohibited. While bathing is not specifically mentioned, it is understood that bathing with chemicals on the skin such as sunscreen, deodorants, perfumes or creams is negatively affecting the quality of the water, so it cannot be done.
You can read the protection decree and the list of wetlands included here: aragon.es/-/humedales-de-aragon
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Eriste Dam
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Despite being relatively easy to access, this beautiful lake located at 2300 m altitude is not one of the most visited in the Pyrenees. However, it stands out for being located in a very clear glacial cirque, with an almost perfect overexcavation basin. All Aragonese lakes are protected as they are included in the Inventory of Singular Wetlands, so any activity that could modify the quality of their waters is prohibited. While bathing is not specifically mentioned, it is understood that bathing with chemicals on the skin such as sunscreen, deodorants, perfumes or creams is negatively affecting the quality of the water, so it cannot be done. You can read the protection decree and the list of wetlands included here: aragon.es/-/humedales-de-aragon
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Despite being relatively easy to access, this beautiful lake located at 2300 m altitude is not one of the most visited in the Pyrenees. However, it stands out for being located in a very clear glacial cirque, with an almost perfect overexcavation basin. All Aragonese lakes are protected as they are included in the Inventory of Singular Wetlands, so any activity that could modify the quality of their waters is prohibited. While bathing is not specifically mentioned, it is understood that bathing with chemicals on the skin such as sunscreen, deodorants, perfumes or creams is negatively affecting the quality of the water, so it cannot be done. You can read the protection decree and the list of wetlands included here: aragon.es/-/humedales-de-aragon
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Currently called Lake Eriste, it has also been known as the Eriste or Linsoles Reservoir. It was built in the 1960s as part of the creation of the Eriste Hydroelectric Power Station, although its function is to collect water from the power station and accumulate it for the Sesué generating station. A pleasant path runs along its left bank with numerous benches and picnic tables where you can make stops.
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On July 28, 1963, there was a major flood that delayed the inauguration of this dam. Anecdotally, the gates of the dam stayed closed and the swamp water began to overflow. The neighbors came to pull with chains, like a ratchet, to open the gates and allow the water to come out.
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The Linsoles Reservoir is a small reservoir that is located very close to the town of Eriste, and where the waters of the Ésera river, coming from the Maladeta massif, come from.
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The Linsoles (or Eriste) Reservoir was built in the 1960s to collect the water channeled through the mountain to power the Eriste hydroelectric power station. It is one of the 3 reservoirs of the Ésera river in the Benasque valley.
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The ibón de Plan is popularly known as "Basa de la Mora" due to the local legend that tells how a Moorish princess came to this place fleeing the conflicts between Moors and Christians. The princess was lost and her spirit was trapped in the lake forever. Tradition has it that early in the morning of San Chuan (San Juan) those with a pure heart who wash their faces with the waters of the ibón can see the silhouette of the princess dancing with jewels and snakes. This myth is so ingrained in the popular culture of the Chistau valley that there is a saying that is still passed down from generation to generation that goes like this: "If ye que i puyas bela maitinada de San Chuan ta ibón and you don't bieses it, you will have to think about laba-te l'anima… it's only clean güellos, they can see the Moorish princess of the summits".
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Seira?
Around Seira, you'll discover a mix of natural ibones, which are glacial lakes, and man-made reservoirs. These bodies of water are often nestled in glacial cirques, offering distinct natural features within the Pyrenees.
Are there any lakes with unique local stories or legends?
Yes, the Ibón of Plan (Basa de la Mora) is famously known as "Basa de la Mora" due to a local legend. It's said that a Moorish princess drowned there while fleeing Christian troops, and her spirit is trapped in the lake. Tradition holds that on the morning of San Juan, those with a pure heart can see her dancing on the water's surface.
Which lakes are suitable for families?
Both the Linsoles Reservoir and Lago de Eriste are considered family-friendly. Lago de Eriste, in particular, features a pleasant path along its left bank with numerous benches and picnic tables, perfect for a relaxing outing.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Seira?
Many of the natural ibones, like the Ibón of Plan (Basa de la Mora), fill up after the winter thaw. Therefore, late spring and summer are generally ideal for experiencing these lakes at their fullest and enjoying the surrounding trails.
Can I swim in the lakes around Seira?
All Aragonese lakes, including those around Seira, are protected as Singular Wetlands. While general bathing isn't explicitly prohibited everywhere, activities that could modify water quality, such as bathing with chemicals like sunscreen or deodorants, are discouraged to protect the ecosystem. For example, at Ibón del Sen, it's understood that bathing with chemicals negatively affects water quality and should not be done.
Are there hiking or running trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are several trails. For running, you can explore routes like the 'Ibón de Plan Trail via GR 15' or the 'Linsoles Reservoir – Linsoles Reservoir loop'. You can find more details and routes on the Running Trails around Seira guide.
What cycling opportunities are available near the lakes?
The area offers various cycling routes, including the 'Linsoles Reservoir – Linsoles Reservoir loop from Castejón de Sos' and the 'Linsoles Reservoir – La Besurta loop'. For more options, check the Cycling around Seira guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Seira guide.
What makes Ibón del Sen unique?
The Ibón del Sen, located at 2300 meters altitude, stands out for its location in a very clear glacial cirque with an almost perfect overexcavation basin. Despite its relatively easy access, it remains one of the less visited, offering a tranquil experience.
What is the purpose of the reservoirs in the Seira region?
Reservoirs like Linsoles Reservoir and Lago de Eriste were built in the 1960s primarily for hydroelectric power generation. They collect water from the Ésera river and other sources to power stations in the region.
What do visitors appreciate most about the lakes around Seira?
Visitors appreciate the alpine settings and the distinct natural features of the lakes, from high-altitude natural formations to bodies of water used for power generation. The komoot community has shared over 20 photos and given more than 30 upvotes, highlighting the beauty and recreational opportunities.
Are there any easy walks around the lakes?
Yes, Lago de Eriste offers a pleasant path along its left bank, which is ideal for an easy stroll. The path is equipped with benches and picnic tables, making it a comfortable option for a leisurely walk.
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