In the north of Spain, several autonomous communities stand out for their unique natural jewels. From steep cliffs to prominent forests and imposing waterfalls, the northern part of the Peninsula is home to countless unique landscapes and places waiting to be discovered.
In the northeast of the country, the territory of Aragon not only stands out for the notable number of borders it houses, even bordering the access to France from the province of Huesca; but also for the large number of landscapes and natural destinations it offers, among which you can enjoy several magical hiking routes with a special attraction.
In this way, the Aragonese mountains and roads host a very striking peculiarity, since there are several natural routes throughout the autonomous community that host or end in the so-called lakes. The term refers to small mountain lakes, of glacial origin, spread throughout the Pyrenean area that houses the region.
These natural accidents are derived from glacial processes, in which the ice melts and the water – at very low temperatures – erodes the rock of the mountain until it makes a hole in it. Likewise, they are a great alternative for any nature lover, since throughout the territory there are multiple paths through which you can reach several of these natural jewels.
There are several hiking routes in the Pyrenees that are distinguished by ending or connecting routes between several of these lakes of glacial origin, defining themselves as unique options to enjoy Aragonese nature. These are the three lake routes in Aragon that you cannot miss.
Route through the Ibón de Anayet and the Tena valley
Throughout the Tena valley, there are several routes to access the Ibón de Anayet, although one of the most notable starts from Formigal, a circular route ten kilometers long and just over four hours long. In addition, the path is fully signposted, making the experience significantly easier.
The route begins from the Portalet car park, in Formigal, at the entrance to the Espelunziecha valley. From there, it is possible to access the Collado de Batallero, where you will have to flank the Cresta de los Farallones and the natural balcony over the Barranco de Culivillas until connecting with the GR-11 trail, which will mark the rest of the way.
Route to the Ibones of Bachimaña from Baños de Panticosa
The alpine route to the Bachimaña Ibones begins at the Casa de Piedra refuge of the Aragonese Mountaineering Federation, in the Panticosa resort. From there it is possible to venture on a linear route of moderate difficulty and 12 and a half kilometers in distance.
The excursion is part of the GR-11 trail, from which it ascends the Caldarés River, where it will be possible to enjoy some waterfalls and waterfalls. Throughout the marked territory, it is possible to stop at several key points, such as the Mirador de la Reina or the Pradera de Bozuelo.
At the end of the path it will be possible to enjoy the Ibón Baxo de Bachimaña, although if you continue through the refuge located on the right on the same side of the valley, it will be possible to access the Ibón Alto de Bachimaña. In this way, accessing both enclaves and then descending along the same route to the starting point.
Route through the Ibón de Estanés
One of the most recognized circular routes is the Ibón de Estanés, a linear route 9 kilometers long and 3 and a quarter hours long. Through this route located on the border with France, it will not only be possible to enjoy two glacial lakes, but also a unique forest, the Sansanet Beech Forest.
The path begins at the parking lot that gives its name to the grove, from which the path begins in the direction of the glacial lake. The path, fully signposted, also passes through a beech forest during the ascent, although after 45 minutes, it clears up allowing large meadows to be seen.
From here, the itinerary joins the GR-11 trail from Candachu, making the journey even easier. In this way, at 1790 meters of altitude – the maximum level of the excursion – it will be possible to see the Port of Estanés, which houses the lake with the same name.
#lake #routes #Aragon
