hiking trails

Andorra has around 80 lakes scattered throughout the country, which stand out for their beauty and surroundings. If you are looking for a hiking route to discover unknown natural areas, we recommend an excursion to one of the lakes in the Incles Valley: the Estanys de Siscaró. Here we tell you first-hand how to get to Siscaró lake. Technical details of the hike to Lake Siscaró We begin by providing you with a summary of the most important details of the route, so that you can get an idea and prepare yourself thoroughly before putting on your hiking boots. – Difficulty level It is classified as moderate, meaning that it does not require much previous experience, but you must be used to walking. The total distance is 3.58 kilometres. In total there are about 7 km, out and back with 500 metres of difference in altitude, with two climbs that are a little steeper. Don’t forget that the distances in the mountains have nothing to do with the equivalent walking in the city or on the beach. Here, every kilometre is more demanding, so you should anticipate about 2 hours uphill and about 1h30 downhill. – Where the route to Lake Siscaró begins Lake Siscaró is located at 2305 metres above sea level in the Incles Valley, very close to the Tarter hotel. The hike starts at the bottom of the valley past the Baladosa bridge at 1835 metres. In summer, the 3 km road in the valley is closed to vehicles from 10 am to 6 pm. If you arrive early in the morning you can go by car. Otherwise you can take the tourist train (for a fee, about €3 each way) or walk. How to get to Lake Siscaró From the bridge, walk along a forest track for about 15 minutes until you reach the Travenc crossroads. Take the path on the right and here begins the first steep climb over rocks. Halfway up you will find a waterfall, where you can make your first stop to take photos or have a snack. Then the path runs alongside a stream with crystal-clear water and some smaller waterfalls, until you reach the Basses de Siscaró, a flat and more open area. Take the path on the right, at the end of which a steeper climb awaits you. At the end of this climb, take the path to the left and it won’t take you more than 10 minutes to reach the Siscaró Baix lake. Once there: enjoy!The Siscaró ponds are named after the “Siscall” plant that grows in the waters of these lakes and the surrounding area. Recommendations before going to the mountains Bear in mind these tips for safe mountain activities. Although spring and summer are the recommended seasons for hiking, check the weather forecast before starting your route, as the weather in the mountains is changeable. Plan your route well before setting off and find out about the terrain. Carry a map of the route. Your phone’s GPS can do the job. Carry a charged mobile phone battery. Wear suitable footwear and clothing for the mountains. Trekking poles will be a great help to give you a boost on the climbs and support you on the descents. It is very important to stay hydrated, so take plenty of water. Take food to regain strength such as fruit, nuts, energy bars, sandwiches or biscuits. Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Take care of the environment, and have a bag in your backpack to return with your waste and dispose of it in the most appropriate container. It is best to do the route in company. If you are not sure of the route, it is always a good option to hire a mountain guide. They will show you the route and complement the excursion with their knowledge of the country’s flora and fauna and other curiosities that may arise along the way. Your rest in Andorra After this beautiful excursion, return to the hotel where your room awaits you. Enjoy a comfortable and spacious stay to recover after a day of hiking in the mountains. Book your room here and start planning your route.