Top 10 Lakes around Borau

The Borau region, situated within the Aragonese Pyrenees, features a diverse collection of lakes. You'll find glacial lakes, mountain lakes (known as 'ibones'), and smaller, high-altitude lakes. Some are of volcanic origin, nestled among rocky peaks, offering unique lacustrine craters and serene reflections.

Among the most popular are Anayet Lakes, a set of small glacial lakes at 2,200m altitude. Another highly regarded spot is Estanés Lake, a beautiful mountain lake at 1,754 meters. Visitors also appreciate Ibón del Escalar for its charm and accessibility.

The Anayet Lakes are located at 2,200m below the volcanic peaks of El Vértice de Anayet and El Pico de Anayet. This area is known for its glacial reliefs and the stunning backdrop of the Midi d'Ossau, which appears to sprout from the lake's surface. The volcanic crown of Anayet surrounds these mineral-colored lacustrine craters, creating a truly unique landscape.

Estanés Lake is a mountain lake (ibón) situated at 1,754 meters above sea level on the Spanish side of the Pyrenees. It's nestled at the foot of beautiful rocky mountains, offering a timeless and incredibly scenic break. It's considered a classic destination in this area and rarely disappoints visitors.

Yes, Ibón del Escalar is known for its accessible trail, making it suitable for many visitors, including those who might be less experienced or have some physical limitations. It's a charming spot to rest and contemplate the surroundings.

The lakes around Borau offer spectacular high-mountain views. From points like Views of Anayet and its mountain lakes, you can enjoy idyllic vistas of the Anayet peaks and their lakes. The unmistakable silhouette of the Midi d'Ossau summit often rises in the background, providing a dramatic panorama. Lac du Plaa de las Basques also offers an incredible panorama of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau.

Yes, the region around Borau offers numerous hiking opportunities. The trails often run through glacial reliefs and provide access to the lakes. For more detailed hiking routes, you can explore the Hiking around Borau guide, which includes routes like the Cueva de las Guixas loop.

Trails around Borau's lakes often feature glacial reliefs and can lead through rocky mountain areas. While some paths, like the one to Ibón del Escalar, are accessible to many, others, such as the approach to Anayet Lakes, involve climbs that make good use of terraces, making them more comfortable than they might initially appear.

Beyond hiking, the Borau region is excellent for cycling. You can find challenging routes for gravel biking and road cycling. These guides offer various routes, including difficult ones that explore the mountainous landscapes around Borau.

For activities like biking to higher lakes, summer or early autumn are recommended, as snow can make trails impassable later in the year. Generally, these seasons offer the most favorable conditions for exploring the high-altitude lakes and their surrounding trails.

While the lakes are beautiful, it's generally advised not to swim in the Aragonese lakes. This is partly because some may contain leeches, but more importantly, because these lakes are protected ecosystems. Sun creams and deodorants can damage the water quality and harm the delicate aquatic life.

Yes, some lakes offer family-friendly access. For instance, Ibón del Escalar has a trail that is accessible to many, making it a good option for families looking for a charming and less strenuous lake visit.