Best lakes around Olette are situated in the heart of the Regional Natural Park of the Catalan Pyrenees, a region known for its high-altitude lakes. The area features diverse natural beauty and recreational activities. These lakes include artificial reservoirs and natural mountain lakes, offering various outdoor experiences. Olette serves as a base for exploring these mountain environments.
Last updated: October 13, 2026
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The Puyvalador dam is 160 meters long and 39 meters high. This concrete structure is used to regulate the waters of the Aude river to produce electricity. From the dam, the view is exceptional.
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Lake Matemale with its beautiful beaches is located at an altitude of 1500 metres and therefore the water is between 19 and 23°.
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Lake Nohèdes, also called Gorg Estelat, is a magnificent lake at an altitude of 2,002 meters at the foot of the Pic de Madrès.
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It's always a treat to go around the matemale lake. The facilities around are brilliant, the Ourson beach with all the fun activities are as nice as each other
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Magnificent point of view from all the places of the circuit. very interesting for a family outing including with small children, the last 4 years old was in "follow me".
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The last part of the road leading to the start point is not sutable for all road cars. High ground clearance is a must!
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The region around Olette, within the Catalan Pyrenees, features several beautiful lakes. Key destinations include Lake Matemale, known for its family-friendly activities, the high-altitude Lac des Bouillouses, and Lac de Puyvalador, offering tranquil walks and fishing.
Yes, Lake Matemale is particularly popular with families. It offers supervised swimming in summer, bike rides around the lake, and various water sports. Lake Caudiès also provides a nice setting for picnics and barbecues, making it suitable for family outings.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the area offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, including options like "From Olette to lake Matemale" in the Traffic-free bike rides around Olette guide. Road cycling and running trails are also available, with guides such as Road Cycling Routes around Olette and Running Trails around Olette.
Absolutely. Lac des Bouillouses is a prime destination for hiking enthusiasts, offering trails from easy family walks to more challenging ascents around the Carlit ponds. Lac de Puyvalador also provides excellent spots for scenic walks and easy hikes with tranquil paths.
Lac des Bouillouses, situated at 2,016 meters, is one of the most iconic lakes in the French Pyrenees. It's nestled at the foot of the Carlit massif, surrounded by pine forests and numerous smaller mountain lakes. The site is classified as a Natura 2000 site, highlighting its rich biodiversity and exceptional high-mountain landscapes.
Yes, during peak summer months, access to Lac des Bouillouses is regulated to preserve its pristine condition. This often requires visitors to use shuttle buses to reach the lake.
Fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Lake Matemale offers opportunities to fish for brown trout, rainbow trout, perch, pike, and black bass. Lac de Puyvalador is also a destination for fishing, with trout, pike, and black bass present, though night fishing is not permitted.
The best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to September) is ideal for swimming, water sports, and hiking, with pleasant weather. In winter, lakes like Matemale transform into Nordic areas suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, offering a different kind of outdoor experience.
Yes, the region is home to several high-altitude lakes. Lac des Bouillouses is located at 2,016 meters, offering stunning mountain scenery. Another notable high-altitude lake is Lake Nohèdes (Gorg Estelat), situated at 2,002 meters at the foot of the Pic de Madrès.
Lake Nohèdes (Gorg Estelat) is a magnificent lake at 2,002 meters. Visitors should be aware that the last part of the road leading to its starting point is not suitable for all vehicles; a high ground clearance is recommended for access.
Lake Caudiès is a great option for this, featuring picnic benches and two designated barbecue areas, making it a pleasant spot for a relaxed outdoor meal.


Still not found your perfect lake around Olette? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.