The best walks and hikes around Les Angles
4.5
(1385)
15,215
hikers
124
hikes
Hiking around Les Angles offers diverse terrain within the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, characterized by high mountain peaks, serene lakes, and expansive forests. The region features varied landscapes, from pine forests to exposed mountain ridges, providing a range of environments for different hiking experiences. Notable natural features include Pic Carlit, standing at 2,921 meters, and the significant Lac des Bouillouses at 2,016 meters.
Best hiking trails around Les Angles
- The most popular hiking route is Pic Carlit – hike starting from the parking lot of lac des Bouillouses – Parc naturel régional des Pyrénées Catalanes, an 8.9 miles (14.3 km) difficult trail that takes 6 hours 31 minutes to complete. This route ascends to the highest peak in the Pyrénées-Orientales, offering panoramic views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mont Llaret and Lac d'Aude Loop, a difficult 8.9 miles (14.3 km) path. This trail features significant elevation gain and explores the area around Lac d'Aude.
- Local hikers also love the Estany Negre (Black Lake) – Lake Vallell loop from Lac des Bouillouses, a 7.3 miles (11.8 km) trail leading through high-altitude lakes and mountain scenery, often completed in about 4 hours 8 minutes.
- Hiking around Les Angles is defined by majestic peaks, numerous high-altitude lakes, and diverse trails through pine forests and mountain ridges. The network offers options for all ability levels, from easy paths to challenging alpine ascents.
- The routes in Les Angles are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews. More than 12,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Les Angles's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.8
(162)
2,150
hikers
Ascending Pic Carlit from Lac des Bouillouses immerses you in a landscape of stunning alpine beauty, where forests give way to meadows and, finally, to rocky terrain dotted with a dozen glacial lakes. The route takes you along trails that wind among these crystal-clear waters, such as Estany Negre, before you face the demanding final climb to the summit, where panoramic views of the Pyrenees are your reward. It's an experience that combines the serenity of the lakes with the thrill of high-mountain adventure.
To plan your visit, it's crucial to know that access to Lac des Bouillouses, the starting point for this route, is often regulated in summer, requiring the use of shuttle buses. This challenging hike, with 2847 feet (868 meters) of elevation gain over 8.9 miles (14.3 km) and an estimated duration of 6 hours and 31 minutes, demands good physical fitness and appropriate footwear. If you go during colder periods, consider bringing crampons and an ice axe, as snow and ice can be present.
Pic Carlit is the highest point in the Eastern Pyrenees and one of the region's most popular routes, known for its impressive collection of glacial lakes and rich biodiversity, which includes marmots and chamois. It is part of the Parc naturel régional des Pyrénées Catalanes, a protected area that ensures the conservation of this unique environment. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit and the views it offers are unparalleled.
4.6
(63)
519
hikers
7.19km
02:08
120m
120m
This challenging 4.5-mile loop near Lake Bouillouses offers stunning mountain lakes and requires good fitness and alpine experience.
Sign up for free
4.6
(19)
140
hikers
14.3km
05:20
580m
580m
Hike the difficult 8.9-mile Lac d'Aude par le Mont Llaret loop from Pla del Mir, offering panoramic views and diverse terrain.
4.8
(169)
1,544
hikers
11.8km
04:08
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(157)
1,417
hikers
10.5km
03:47
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Les Angles
The Crossing of the Pyrenees via the GR 10 — Eastern Pyrenees
On wild ridges: Catalonia to Ariège – Hexatrek, Eastern Pyrenees
From refuge to refuge — Tour des Pérics
Tour des Pérics – Carlit and Grand Péric variants
Loop of the Carlit – Tour of the massif along the lakes
Running Trails around Les Angles
Cycling around Les Angles
MTB Trails around Les Angles
Road Cycling Routes around Les Angles
Gravel biking around Les Angles
Other adventures around Les Angles
Tips from the Community
More "high mountain" atmosphere than the other lakes in Carlit
0
0
A superb lake reflecting the neighboring peaks. The morning light amplifies this mirror effect.
0
0
View of the Carlit, the Bouillouses, the Péric, the Sierra de Cadi, the Cerdagne valley .... Wonderful.
0
0
At an altitude of 2,330 metres, this lake is located in a dreamlike mountain environment. From there you can see the Carlit peak, the highest point of the massif.
0
0
Nestled in a glacial basin, this small lake often lies dry in summer, revealing an impressive mineral setting, surrounded by meadows and imposing peaks. The trails leading to the lake offer magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and allow you to enjoy the tranquility of this timeless place.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Les Angles?
There are over 120 hiking routes available around Les Angles, catering to various skill levels. This includes 35 easy trails, 61 moderate routes, and 28 challenging hikes for experienced trekkers.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Les Angles?
The terrain around Les Angles is diverse, ranging from serene pine forests to exposed high mountain ridges. You'll encounter varied landscapes within the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, featuring significant elevation changes, especially on routes leading to peaks like Pic Carlit.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options in Les Angles?
Yes, Les Angles offers 35 easy trails suitable for families and beginners. These paths provide a gentle introduction to the region's natural beauty without requiring extensive hiking experience. For specific recommendations, you can explore the easy routes available on komoot.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking?
Hikers can explore stunning natural features such as Lac des Bouillouses, a significant high-altitude lake, and other picturesque ponds like Estany Negre. The region is also home to Col de la Llose, offering scenic vistas, and the majestic Pic Carlit, the highest peak in the Pyrénées-Orientales.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Les Angles?
Yes, there are several circular routes. A popular option is the Estany Negre (Black Lake) – Lake Vallell loop from Lac des Bouillouses, which is a moderate 7.3-mile (11.8 km) trail. Another is the Lake Aude – Lake Bouillousses loop from Lac des Bouillouses, also a moderate 7.1-mile (11.5 km) route.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Les Angles?
The hiking routes in Les Angles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the majestic peaks, numerous high-altitude lakes, and diverse trails through pine forests and mountain ridges, offering options for all ability levels.
Is it possible to hike to Pic Carlit from Les Angles?
Yes, the ascent to Pic Carlit, the highest peak in the Pyrénées-Orientales, is a challenging but rewarding hike. A popular starting point is from the parking lot of Lac des Bouillouses, as seen in the Pic Carlit – hike starting from the parking lot of lac des Bouillouses route, offering vast panoramic views.
Are there any trails that explore the area around Lac d'Aude?
Absolutely. The Mont Llaret and Lac d'Aude Loop is a challenging 8.9-mile (14.3 km) path that features significant elevation gain and explores the beautiful area around Lac d'Aude, offering stunning mountain scenery.
What is the best time of year for hiking in Les Angles?
Les Angles is a four-season resort. While winter offers snowshoeing, the best time for hiking without snow is typically from late spring to early autumn. During these months, the high-altitude lakes are accessible, and the weather is generally favorable for exploring the diverse mountain terrain.
Are there any specific permits required for hiking in the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park?
Generally, permits are not required for day hikes on marked trails within the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park. However, for specific protected areas or overnight stays, it's always advisable to check with the local park authorities for any specific regulations or requirements.
Can I find trails that pass by multiple high-altitude ponds?
Yes, the region is known for its numerous high-altitude lakes and ponds. The area around Lac des Bouillouses is particularly rich in these, with trails like the Esquits Ponds Loop offering a chance to explore several picturesque bodies of water in one hike.
Most popular routes around Les Angles
Most popular attractions around Les Angles
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
