Top 10 Lakes around Sant Sadurní D'Osormort
Best lakes around Sant Sadurní D'Osormort are primarily found in the surrounding Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona, an area characterized by extensive forests and varied terrain. While the municipality itself is situated in the Riera Major valley with numerous torrents, large natural lakes are not a feature. The region's most notable water bodies are the expansive reservoirs, Pantà de Sau and Pantà de Susqueda, which offer significant scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. These reservoirs provide lake-like experiences within a natural setting.
Best lakes around Sant Sadurní D'Osormort
- The most popular lakes is Church of Sant Romà de Sau (Submerged Bell Tower), a historical site and viewpoint that features the visible bell tower of an 11th-century Romanesque church. This church is recognized as the oldest in the world preserved standing in water, emerging from the Sau Reservoir when water levels are low.
- Another must-see spot is View of the Cingles de Tavertet from Sau Reservoir, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Sau reservoir and its surrounding mountains. Visitors can observe the landscape where the submerged town of Sant Romà de Sau lies, with the bell tower visible during drier periods.
- Visitors also love Susqueda Reservoir gravel trail, a wide track bordering the Susqueda Reservoir. This trail offers views of the reservoir and is suitable for cycling, providing a non-technical route to enjoy the landscape.
- Sant Sadurní D'Osormort is known for large reservoirs that offer diverse water-based activities and scenic trails. These include the Pantà de Sau and Pantà de Susqueda, which are popular for activities like kayaking, paddle surfing, hiking, and bird watching.
- The lakes around Sant Sadurní D'Osormort are appreciated by the komoot community, with highlights receiving more than 80 upvotes and featuring over 25 photos.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Church of Sant Romà de Sau (Submerged Bell Tower)
Highlight • Religious Site
It is part of a system of three reservoirs, together with those of Susqueda and Pasteral, which joins the counties of Osona and La Selva. The reservoir, inaugurated in 1962, covered the town of San Román de Sau, the remains of which, especially the bell tower of the temple, are visible when the water level is low and, even in times of prolonged drought, the town is left to the discovered and it is possible to visit it.
The church of the Sau swamp is registered as the oldest in the world that is preserved standing in the water. This is confirmed by a study promoted by the international entity for world record records Official World Record with the collaboration of a research group from the University of Barcelona in the year 2021.
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Sau Dam
Highlight • Lake
It is part of a system of three reservoirs, together with those of Susqueda and Pasteral, which joins the counties of Osona and La Selva. The reservoir, inaugurated in 1962, covered the town of San Román de Sau, the remains of which, especially the bell tower of the temple, are visible when the water level is low and, even in times of prolonged drought, the town is left to the discovered and it is possible to visit it.
The church of the Sau swamp is registered as the oldest in the world that is preserved standing in the water. [2] This is confirmed by a study promoted by the international entity of world record records Official World Record with the collaboration of a research group from the University of Barcelona in the year 2021.
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Susqueda Reservoir gravel trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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View towards the Monastery
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Playa de la Rovira
Highlight • Beach
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Tips from the Community
Sau Dam Tip for Bikepackers When riding near the Pantà de Sau (Sau Reservoir), don’t miss stopping at the Sau Dam viewpoint. It’s a spectacular spot to catch your breath and take in the sweeping views of the turquoise reservoir framed by steep cliffs and lush forests. 🌊 If water levels are low, you might even spot the famous submerged bell tower of the old village of Sant Romà de Sau poking out of the water — a haunting and iconic sight that adds a unique story to your ride. 🛑 Keep in mind the area around the dam can be a bit steep and technical on gravel roads, so take it easy if you’re loaded up. 💡 Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon light here is magical for photos and gives you cooler temperatures for climbing or descending.
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A great place even if the reason why this village reappears after 60 years is more than sad. Water shortage in Catalonia.
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Amazing views of the Del Ter ravine
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La Rovira beach is located in the Sau reservoir, where the vestiges of the villages that were flooded to create the reservoir still remain. From this beach there are fantastic views of the spectacular cliffs that surround the swamp.
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This Susqueda gravel road borders the Sau reservoir, being one of the most beautiful sections of the place. The track is wide and without any technical complications. Time to enjoy the incredible views.
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Is it gravel compatible?
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The Sau reservoir is a Spanish hydraulic infrastructure built on the Ter river, located in the municipality of Vilanova de Sau, at the foot of the Guilleries massif, in the Osona region, province of Barcelona, Catalonia. It is part of a system of three reservoirs, together with those of Susqueda and Pasteral, which joins the counties of Osona and La Selva. The reservoir, inaugurated in 1962, covered the town of San Román de Sau, the remains of which, especially the bell tower of the temple, are visible when the water level is low and, even in times of prolonged drought, the town is left to the discovered and it is possible to visit it. The church of the Sau swamp is registered as the oldest in the world that is preserved standing in the water. This is confirmed by a study promoted by the international entity for world record records Official World Record with the collaboration of a research group from the University of Barcelona in the year 2021.
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Route to enjoy nature
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main water bodies near Sant Sadurní D'Osormort?
While Sant Sadurní D'Osormort itself is in a valley with torrents, the primary water bodies in the region are the large reservoirs: Pantà de Sau (Sau Reservoir) and Pantà de Susqueda (Susqueda Reservoir). These offer expansive lake-like experiences within the Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona.
What historical landmarks can be found at the lakes near Sant Sadurní D'Osormort?
The most notable historical landmark is the Church of Sant Romà de Sau (Submerged Bell Tower) at Pantà de Sau. This 11th-century Romanesque church's bell tower famously emerges from the water when reservoir levels are low, recognized as the oldest in the world preserved standing in water.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do at Pantà de Sau?
Pantà de Sau is excellent for nature lovers and offers diverse activities. You can enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddle surfing, and rowing. Hiking trails, such as those to Morro de l'Abella or Puig del Far, provide stunning panoramic views. There are also picnic areas and a children's park available.
What activities are available at Pantà de Susqueda?
Pantà de Susqueda is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Its tranquil waters are perfect for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddle surfing. Fishing is also popular. The surrounding trails are great for hiking and cycling, and it's a significant spot for bird watching.
Are there family-friendly trails around the lakes?
Yes, the Susqueda Reservoir gravel trail is a wide, non-technical track bordering the Susqueda Reservoir, making it suitable for families and cycling. The area around Pantà de Sau also features picnic areas and a children's park, suggesting accessible spots for families.
Where can I find the best viewpoints of the reservoirs?
For breathtaking views, visit the View of the Cingles de Tavertet from Sau Reservoir, which offers a panoramic perspective of the Sau reservoir and its surrounding mountains. The Sau Dam also provides spectacular sweeping views.
What are the best times to visit the lakes near Sant Sadurní D'Osormort?
The region's lakes, being reservoirs, offer unique experiences depending on water levels. Visiting during drier periods might allow you to see more of the submerged village at Sau. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities, while summer is popular for water sports.
Are there hiking routes near these lakes?
Absolutely. The natural areas around the reservoirs offer numerous hiking opportunities. For a broader range of trails, you can explore the Running Trails around Sant Sadurní D'Osormort guide, which includes routes like the Viladrau to Matagalls Trail, offering varying difficulties.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Susqueda Reservoir gravel trail is excellent for cycling, offering incredible views without technical complications. For more cycling options, refer to the Cycling around Sant Sadurní D'Osormort guide, which lists routes like the Pont de Malafogassa loop from Vilanova de Sau.
What natural features characterize the area around these lakes?
The lakes are nestled within the Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona, an area known for extensive forests, varied terrain, and mountainous surroundings. You'll find rich flora and fauna, dramatic cliffs like the Cingles de Tavertet, and serene riverine environments that feed into the reservoirs.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Sant Sadurní D'Osormort?
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning panoramic views, especially from spots like the View of the Cingles de Tavertet from Sau Reservoir. The unique sight of the submerged bell tower at Sau Reservoir and the diverse opportunities for water sports and hiking are also highly appreciated.
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