Estanys de Tristaina | Ordino

The Estanys de Tristaina (Tristaina Lakes) are a stunning group of high-altitude lakes located in the Tristaina Valley, in the Parish of Ordino, Andorra. These lakes are renowned for their crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountain scenery, and incredible natural beauty. The Tristaina Lakes are a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking to experience the pristine wilderness of the Pyrenees.

Location and Accessibility

The Tristaina Lakes are situated at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) and are nestled in the Tristaina Valley, a region known for its rugged terrain and dramatic views. The lakes can be reached via a relatively moderate hike that starts from the village of El Serrat, located in the Ordino Valley.

To access the lakes, visitors typically take a hiking trail that leads from the Collet de la Coma (Coma Pass), a well-known mountain pass in the area, or they can take the Tristaina Cable Car from La Massana to a higher elevation and then hike up to the lakes. The cable car shortens the overall hike and provides stunning panoramic views as it ascends, but hikers still need to complete a portion of the trail on foot to reach the lakes.

Lakes Overview

The Estanys de Tristaina are a series of three main lakes, situated one after another in a picturesque alpine landscape. These lakes, with their deep blue waters surrounded by rugged peaks, offer some of the most dramatic and breathtaking views in Andorra.

Estany de Tristaina (Lower Lake): The first and largest lake in the series, it is often the most visited by hikers. This lake is surrounded by lush green meadows and offers fantastic views of the high mountain peaks, such as Pic de Tristaina and Pic de Comapedrosa. The clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a striking image.

Estany de Més Amunt (Middle Lake): The second lake in the series, located a little higher than the lower lake, is smaller but just as beautiful. It sits in a more exposed location, offering a more dramatic atmosphere and views over the surrounding valleys. Its water is usually a brilliant turquoise, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding rock formations.

Estany de les Truites (Upper Lake): The uppermost of the three lakes, this one sits at a higher elevation and is the smallest. It is often the least visited due to its more remote location, but it offers an even more serene and tranquil atmosphere. The upper lake is surrounded by rocky outcrops and provides incredible views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Hiking to the Tristaina Lakes

The hike to the Estanys de Tristaina is considered moderate in difficulty, suitable for hikers with some experience. The total hike can take between 3 to 4 hours round trip, depending on the chosen route and the pace of the hiker.

The most common route starts from El Serrat, a village in the Ordino Valley. From here, visitors can either:

Hike from the Collet de la Coma: This is the traditional approach, beginning at the Collet de la Coma pass, which is accessible by road from El Serrat. From there, the trail takes hikers up through rocky terrain, leading to the first and largest of the Tristaina Lakes. The route is well-marked and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Take the Tristaina Cable Car: For those who prefer a shorter and more convenient route, they can take the Tristaina Cable Car from La Massana to the upper part of the mountain. From the cable car station, it’s a relatively short hike to reach the lakes. This option reduces the overall hiking distance, but visitors still need to walk to fully experience the beauty of the lakes.

Scenic Beauty and Surroundings

The Estanys de Tristaina are set in an incredibly scenic environment, surrounded by rugged cliffs, rocky ridges, and snow-capped peaks. The lakes are located within the Tristaina Natural Park, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes. The area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including wildflowers, marmots, and birds of prey such as golden eagles and vultures.

The lakes are especially beautiful in the summer, when the surrounding meadows are lush and green, and in the autumn, when the colors of the trees change to vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. In winter, the lakes are often covered by snow, creating a magical winter landscape.

Activities and Attractions

Hiking and Trekking: The main activity at the Tristaina Lakes is hiking. The trail that leads to the lakes is a rewarding experience, offering not only the lakes themselves but also stunning views of the surrounding mountain scenery and alpine meadows. For avid hikers, the trail can be extended to Pic de Tristaina, a mountain peak that offers even more impressive views of the surrounding Pyrenees.

Wildlife Watching: The area around the lakes is home to a wide range of wildlife, including marmots, mountain goats, and a variety of birds. Birdwatchers can spot species such as eagles and vultures. The serene environment also makes it an excellent spot for photography.

Photography: The Estanys de Tristaina offer some of the most photogenic scenes in Andorra. The crystal-clear lakes, the rugged peaks, and the changing seasons provide perfect opportunities for photographers to capture the natural beauty of the region.

Fishing: The lakes are also a great spot for fishing, particularly the lower lake, where visitors can fish for brown trout in the peaceful waters.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Estanys de Tristaina is during the summer months (from June to September), when the weather is mild, and the hiking trails are accessible. The lakes are at their most vibrant and the surrounding flora is in full bloom. The autumn months are also beautiful, as the changing colors of the leaves add extra charm to the landscape. Winter brings a serene beauty to the lakes, but access may be more challenging due to snow and cold temperatures.

Conclusion

The Estanys de Tristaina are a must-see destination for anyone visiting Andorra. Whether you're a keen hiker, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to experience the incredible beauty of the Pyrenees, these lakes offer an unforgettable experience. With their crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering mountain peaks and alpine meadows, the Tristaina Lakes are one of the most scenic spots in Andorra, offering peace, beauty, and adventure all year round.