Top 20 Lakes around Borce

Beyond the well-known Ayous lakes, you can discover Anayet Lakes, located at 2,200m below volcanic peaks, offering stunning views of the Midi d'Ossau. Another unique spot is Ibón de Acherito, the westernmost lake in the Pyrenees, known for its colony of Pyrenean newts.

The region is rich in diverse natural features. You'll find glacial lakes like Lac Roumassot, which serves as a summer pasture with horses and cows, adding an authentic touch. Lac Bersau is known for its crystal-clear waters mirroring the surrounding mountains. The Anayet Lakes are set amidst volcanic reliefs, while Ibón de Acherito is notable for its unique ecosystem, including Pyrenean newts.

The best time to visit for hiking is generally from late May to early October. During this period, the Ayous refuge is open, and conditions are more favorable for exploring the high-altitude lakes. Always check local conditions before planning your trip, especially for higher elevations.

While many trails in the Pyrenees can be challenging, some areas offer more accessible options. For instance, the Ayous lakes, including Lac Roumassot, are part of a summer pasture where you might see horses and cows, which can be enjoyable for families. However, always check the specific trail difficulty and length before heading out with children.

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Somport Pass – Peilhou Dam and Lake loop from Urdos', which is a difficult 45.96 km ride. There are also challenging running trails, including the 'Refuge d'Ayous – Chemin de la Mâture loop from Etsaut' (28.07 km). For mountain biking, consider routes like the 'Ibón del Escalar – Somport Pass loop from Somport' (29.14 km). You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides: Road Cycling Routes around Borce, Running Trails around Borce, and MTB Trails around Borce.

Yes, the lakes around Borce are primarily accessed via hiking trails. For example, the hike to Lac d'Arlet is approximately 18 kilometers long and considered difficult due to steep elevation changes. Lac d'Estaens can be reached via a 10 km loop of medium difficulty, including the Chemin des Échelles. The Ayous lakes, including Lac Bersau, are highlights along the Pyrenean Haute Route and GR 10 hiking trails. Many running trails also incorporate these lakes, such as the 'Lake Bersau – Refuge d'Ayous loop from Somport'.

Near the Ayous lakes, you'll find the Refuge d'Ayous, which is open from late May to early October. It offers accommodation for hikers, and bivouacking is also possible around the refuge, particularly near Lac Gentau. The refuge provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding lakes.

While the pristine waters might be tempting, it's important to note that many Aragonese lakes, including Ibón de Acherito, are protected as Singular Wetlands. Activities that could modify water quality, such as bathing with sunscreen or other chemicals, are prohibited to preserve these fragile ecosystems. Always check local regulations for specific lakes.

Lac d'Estaens, located near Borce in the Aspe Valley, is unique for being a cross-border lake, with half of it in France and half in Spain. It offers a picturesque setting and is typically accessed via a 10 km loop trail of medium difficulty, which includes the scenic Chemin des Échelles (Ladder Path).

The hike to Lac d'Arlet is considered difficult. It's approximately 18 kilometers long, starting from the Lamourane house at the exit of Borce, and involves steep elevation changes. It is best suited for experienced hikers seeking a challenging and scenic adventure.

Yes, the Pyrenees region is known for its diverse high-altitude flora and fauna. Lakes like Lac Roumassot, used as a summer pasture, often have horses and cows. Ibón de Acherito is home to a unique colony of Pyrenean newts. The fragile ecosystems around lakes like Lac Bersau also support various high-altitude species, offering opportunities for nature observation.

Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning natural beauty, the pristine waters, and the dramatic mountainous backdrops. The sense of tranquility and the rewarding hiking experiences, especially to high-altitude glacial lakes, are often highlighted. The presence of authentic elements like summer pastures with livestock also adds to the charm.