The best walks and hikes around Estany de la Gola
4.5
(161)
1,501
hikers
75
hikes
Hiking around Estany de la Gola offers a Pyrenean experience within the Alt Pirineu Natural Park. This glacial lake is situated at an altitude of 2,249 meters and marks the origin of the Unarre River. The surrounding Unarre Valley provides panoramic views of the Pyrenees, with the Pic de la Gola prominent at the lake's base. The terrain includes peaceful forest areas, varied landscapes, and steep, rocky sections.
Best hiking trails around Estany de la Gola
- The most popular hiking…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
3
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(2)
25
hikers
24.6km
10:39
1,460m
1,460m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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5.0
(3)
24
hikers
8.50km
03:56
610m
610m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(2)
14
hikers
5.09km
02:23
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5
hikers
8.89km
04:16
670m
670m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
A former cottage for the workers who built the reservoir that had fallen into disrepair over time. After the renovation, the ruin has become a hostel for hikers.
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A reservoir, with a natural dam locked like a jewel between the mountains. The hiking trail leads to the left of the shore to the opposite side of the lake and on to the other lakes
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Right in the parking lot, we have this beautiful Pyrenean image, the green of the meadow, the waterfall and the small wooden bridge that marks the point from where we will have to push the bike for 1km uphill if we want to reach the Gola lake or the refuge. The lake, will give us a beautiful picture at 2250 meters of altitude, and is located in the natural park of the High Pyrenees. For what the refuge does, we can say that it is a typical mountain refuge located in the Unarre valley, in the Alto Pirineo natural park. Passage area of the routes to Montroig or Ventolau. It will be great for us to take refuge on stormy days. There is space for 10 people.
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Mountain refuge in the Unarre valley, located in the Alto Pirineo natural park and a passing area for the routes to Montroig or Ventolau. It will be great for us to take refuge on stormy days. There is space for 10 people. Bicycle access is not allowed. So we will have to push it the last kilometer to reach the lake. There is a parking lot 2.5 km from the Lake, but it is not easily accessible if we do not go with a 4x4.
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This water from this source is drinkable and therefore a great place to refill your water bottles.
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Fantastic mountain lake landscape with many beautiful lakes.
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Small unmanaged refuge in the middle of the mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking around Estany de la Gola?
The terrain around Estany de la Gola is diverse, ranging from peaceful forest areas to varied landscapes, and includes steep, rocky sections. You'll encounter glacial lakes and enjoy panoramic Pyrenean mountain views, with the prominent Pic de la Gola at the lake's base.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Estany de la Gola?
Yes, Estany de la Gola offers routes for various ability levels, including easy options. There are 12 easy routes available, making it possible for beginners to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the hiking trails?
Hikers can discover several notable features, including the beautiful glacial lake itself, the origin of the Unarre River, and the impressive Pic de la Gola. You might also encounter the picturesque Cascada de Sartari (Sartari Waterfall), a charming wooden bridge, and the historical stone columns of an unfinished hydroelectric dam. The Refugio de la Gola – Estany de la Gola loop, for example, offers views of the glacial lake and the mountain refuge.
Are there any circular hiking routes available in Estany de la Gola?
Yes, circular routes are popular in the area. A notable example is the Refugio de la Gola – Estany de la Gola loop from Aparcament de Sartari, a moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) trail. Another option is the Estany de la Gola – Refugio de la Gola loop from Aparcament de Sartari, which is 5.3 miles (8.5 km) long.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Estany de la Gola?
Estany de la Gola is best visited for hiking during the warmer months when trails are generally clear of snow and ice, typically from late spring through early autumn. This period offers the most accessible conditions to enjoy the high-altitude glacial lake and surrounding Pyrenean landscapes.
Are there any mountain refuges or places to rest along the trails?
Yes, the Refugio de la Gola is a prominent mountain refuge in the area, offering a place for rest and shelter, especially for those on longer excursions. It's located near the historical stone columns of an unfinished hydroelectric dam.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Estany de la Gola?
The routes in Estany de la Gola are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 160 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning glacial lake views, the diverse Pyrenean mountain scenery, and the peaceful forest sections.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the region boasts natural attractions like the Cascada de Sartari (Sartari Waterfall). For a route that specifically highlights a waterfall, consider the Refugi Enric Pujol – Naorre Waterfall loop from Pic Inferior de la Gallina, which leads past the Naorre Waterfall.
Are there any water sources available on the trails to refill bottles?
Yes, hikers can find drinkable water sources along some trails, which are convenient for refilling bottles during longer excursions.
How many hiking routes are available in the Estany de la Gola area?
There are over 75 hiking routes available around Estany de la Gola, catering to various difficulty levels from easy to difficult, ensuring options for almost every hiker.
What are the options for parking near the trailheads in Estany de la Gola?
While specific parking areas are not detailed, many trails, such as the Estany de la Gola – Refugio de la Gola loop, start from locations like Aparcament de Sartari, indicating designated parking facilities are available near popular trail access points.
Can I find accommodation or places to eat near Estany de la Gola?
While Estany de la Gola itself is a high-altitude natural area, nearby villages like Cerbí and Unarre, or the larger town of Esterri d'Àneu, would be the places to look for accommodation, cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
Most popular routes around Estany de la Gola
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