Attractions and Places To See around Lac Des Bouillouses - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Lac Des Bouillouses. This protected natural site in the Catalan Pyrenees is renowned for its rugged beauty, centered around a mountain lake situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters. The area features crystal-clear waters, extensive forests, and is located at the foot of the Massif du Carlit. It offers a diverse natural landscape with numerous smaller lakes and the impressive Bouillouses Dam.
Best attractions and places to see around Lac Des Bouillouses
- The most popular attractions is Lake Bouillouses, a lake that is 149 hectares in size and located at 2,016 m altitude at the foot of the Carlit and the Peric. It is part of the Natural Park of the Catalan Pyrenees and represents a natural site of interest.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Bouillousses, a lake surrounded by mountains and forests. This high-altitude lake offers a spectacular setting with crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.
- Visitors also love Carlit Inn, a hut that serves as a restaurant with rooms and dormitories on the east side of the Lac des Bouillouses dam. It provides accommodation and dining options for visitors exploring the area.
- Lac Des Bouillouses is known for its stunning lakes, surrounding forests, and prominent mountain peaks. The area offers a variety of natural landscapes and points of interest to explore.
- With over 330 upvotes and 108 photos, the attractions around Lac Des Bouillouses are appreciated by the komoot community.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
Lake Bouillouses
Highlight • Lake
In the summer, due to the large influx of tourists, access is restricted in July to a bus that connects the car park below with the dam above.
The name derives from the Latin BULLIRE 'to boil, to be in a boil, to spring'; applied mainly to waters that emerge strongly.
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Carlit Inn
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Tour to the highlight: komoot.de/tour/340821431?ref=itd
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Popular around Lac Des Bouillouses
Tour des Pérics – Carlit and Grand Péric variants
Loop of the Carlit – Tour of the massif along the lakes
Hiking around Lac Des Bouillouses
Cycling around Lac Des Bouillouses
MTB Trails around Lac Des Bouillouses
Road Cycling Routes around Lac Des Bouillouses
Running Trails around Lac Des Bouillouses
Gravel biking around Lac Des Bouillouses
Mountain Hikes around Lac Des Bouillouses
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Tips from the Community
At 2,016 meters, this vast lake and its dam are ideally located for a refreshing break. In addition to the gîte and a refuge, there is also a small water fountain.
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The Bouillouses lake is a dam located at an altitude of 2,016 meters which is the starting point for many hikes.
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Large reservoir at 2000m altitude. At the dam parking and gastronomy, in the rear part untouched and little frequented.
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Bouillouses dam, accessible by shuttle, car or on foot!
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Beautiful panorama around this large reservoir on the Têt at 2000m.
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Lac des Bouillouses is an artificial lake of 19 Mm3 with an area of 149 ha. It is located in Haut-Conflent, in the Pyrénées-Orientales. The masonry retaining dam was built between 1903 and 1910, in a marshy area of the river Têt. It is operated by SHEM to produce hydroelectricity and to help supply drinking water and irrigation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural features to explore around Lac des Bouillouses?
The centerpiece is Lake Bouillouses itself, a stunning mountain lake at 2,000 meters altitude, known for its crystal-clear waters. You'll also find the impressive Bouillouses Dam, numerous smaller adjacent lakes, extensive forests, and the majestic Massif du Carlit, the highest peak in the Pyrénées-Orientales.
What hiking opportunities are available around Lac des Bouillouses?
Lac des Bouillouses is a prime starting point for many hiking trails. You can enjoy easy walks around the main lake or embark on more challenging routes. Popular options include the 'Boucle du Lac d'Aude' for dramatic mountain vistas, or trails leading towards the Pic du Carlit. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking guide for Lac des Bouillouses.
Are there challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Yes, for experienced trekkers, there are several challenging routes. You can tackle the 'Les Bones Hores Bar & Restaurant – Peak Carlit loop from Lac des Bouillouses' which is a difficult 15.38 km mountaineering route, or the 'Pic Carlit – hike starting from the parking lot of lac des Bouillouses' which is a difficult 14.28 km hike. These routes offer significant elevation gain and rugged terrain.
How can I access Lac des Bouillouses, especially during peak season?
Vehicle access to Lac des Bouillouses is regulated during peak seasons to protect the natural environment. During these times, shuttle buses or chairlifts from Font-Romeu are often the primary modes of transport. It's advisable to check local regulations before planning your visit.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Lac des Bouillouses?
The area is rich in exceptional wildlife. Visitors might encounter wild cows and horses grazing freely in the pastures. With a bit of luck, you could also spot the Pyrenean chamois, a wild goat emblematic of the Pyrenees mountains.
Are there places to eat or stay near Lac des Bouillouses?
Yes, the Carlit Inn is a notable option. It serves as a restaurant with rooms and dormitories, located on the east side of the Lac des Bouillouses dam, providing accommodation and dining for visitors exploring the area.
What activities are suitable for families at Lac des Bouillouses?
Families can enjoy easy walks around the lake, picnicking by the lakeside or in the surrounding forests. Chairlift rides from Font-Romeu offer stunning aerial views, which can be a fun experience for all ages. The serene environment is perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Can I go fishing at Lac des Bouillouses?
Yes, the lake's waters are abundant with rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for anglers during the fishing season. Remember to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before fishing.
What is the best time of year to visit Lac des Bouillouses?
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the lake, though vehicle access is regulated. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery with fewer crowds, while winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and other snow sports.
Are there opportunities for gravel biking near Lac des Bouillouses?
Yes, the region offers gravel biking routes. For example, you can find routes like the 'Lac des Bouillouses – Pla des Avellans loop from Pla de la Creu,' which is a moderate 21.3 km ride. More options are available in the gravel biking guide for Lac des Bouillouses.
What is the historical significance of the Bouillouses Dam?
The Bouillouses Dam, constructed between 1903 and 1910, was built to regulate the flow of the River Têt and generate electricity. Notably, it played a crucial role in powering the 'Train Jaune,' a historic mountain railway, highlighting early 20th-century infrastructure development in the region.
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