Top 5 Lakes around Prades
Lakes around Prades, a town in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of France, offer diverse natural settings. The region features a landscape ranging from high-altitude alpine environments to more accessible leisure areas. These bodies of water are often surrounded by mountains, forests, and granite cliffs, providing varied natural beauty. Prades is situated in an area known for its natural parks and significant peaks.
Best lakes around Prades
- The most popular lakes highlight is Cave of the Cranes, a cave that features a small lake and a waterfall during the rainy season. This unique site is known for its Romanesque apse-shaped cave and a fifty-meter waterfall.
- Another must-see spot is Eagle's Nest Natural Pool and Waterfall, a waterfall with a double waterfall and a wide pool. This location is suitable for families, offering a magical experience upon arrival.
- Visitors also love Toll de l'Olla Waterfall, a waterfall with a unique legend. This beautiful waterfall is a popular spot for cooling off.
- Prades is known for high-altitude lakes, leisure lakes, and fishing spots. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, from serene alpine waters to family-friendly recreational areas.
- The lakes around Prades are appreciated by the komoot community, with 95 upvotes and 46 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Cave of the Cranes
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Toll de l'Ou Waterfalls
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Toll de l'Olla Waterfall
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At the beginning of the 17th century, the residents of the area fell ill and asked him for help. She made a deal with them: she would look for the herbs needed to cure them and they should look for a pot that would hold a liter of water per sick person.
When the neighbors failed, the farebona converted this part of the river into the Toll de l'Olla.
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Eagle's Nest Natural Pool and Waterfall
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Siurana Reservoir
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Tips from the Community
The cave can only be reached from the lower footpath. You have to hike back the same way.
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The Toll de l'Olla hides a legend behind it. It is said that it was created by a "farebona" (a good witch). At the beginning of the 17th century, the residents of the area fell ill and asked him for help. She made a deal with them: she would look for the herbs needed to cure them and they should look for a pot that would hold a liter of water per sick person. When the neighbors failed, the farebona converted this part of the river into the Toll de l'Olla.
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Ideal route to do with the family, although it is not many kilometers it does have some slightly more demanding sections, but reaching Niu de l'aliga has its magic. We have gone since it has not rained for a long time so it is a route to do again after a rainy season.
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Beautiful landscape an a fantastic hike up to Pont de Goi. Check my Youtube video: https://youtu.be/zpCHxHeNRp0
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Reservoir in the river of Siurana, in the county of Priorat. In the initial part of the swamp, there are several pools of water.
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The Toll de l'Ou, located in the Pèlags ravine, is a set of pools in the rocks that are joined by small waterfalls. A very unique site in Montsant, with water throughout the year.
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El Toll de l'Ou is one of the most unique places in Montsant. It is located in the Barranc dels Pélags and usually has water almost all year round. Formed by several pools dug into the rock and joined by small waterfalls, it is a very popular place, especially in spring and early summer. It can be reached from the village of Ulldemolins on the GR-171, passing by the hermitage of Santa Magdalena, in the direction of Pi de la Carabasseta, from where you take a path that goes down to this place. It can also be accessed from La Morera de Montsant following the GR-171.
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This balm is a unique place, perhaps the most unique in the valley and of all the Prades mountains. The cave in the form of a Romanesque apse, the fifty-meter waterfall and the small lake that forms in front make up an area of great uniqueness and beauty. The waterfall is only present during the rainy season, because the ravine originates above the Montllats and has a short route. For those with nimble legs, and in the dry season when the ravine is not wide, it is recommended to get there by going along the ravine that leads to the place from the source of the Llódriga; a course full of steps and a maze of stone blocks make for an interesting exercise; those who do not know how to climb better refrain. You go up there along a well-marked path that starts next to the source of the Llódriga. When you reach the Morral de la Devesa, from below the cliff you can see, opposite, the Pixera. Put on the telephoto lens and you'll get the best possible shot of the waterfall. The cave is at the bottom of the ravine, a little higher, and also has a very good perspective. If you want to see the cave with the water pouring down from above, make sure it has rained recently. If it doesn't leak, you'll like it too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes around Prades for family activities?
For family-friendly fun, Lac des Escoumes near Vinça is an excellent choice. It offers supervised beaches during summer, and a variety of water activities like pedalo, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even an aquatic park (Aquagliss 66). It's easily accessible from the main road between Perpignan and Prades. Another option for gentle walks suitable for families is Lac de Matemale.
Where can I find serene, high-altitude lakes near Prades?
The region boasts several stunning high-altitude lakes. Lac des Bouillouses, at 2,016 meters, is a natural jewel surrounded by mountains and forests, perfect for experiencing a wild and serene environment. The Rabassoles Ponds, including the Blue and Black ponds, also offer breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere amidst granite cliffs. Estany del Castellar is another tranquil alpine lake known for its crystal-clear waters and rich biodiversity.
Are there any lakes near Prades where swimming is permitted?
Yes, Lac des Escoumes at Vinça is ideal for swimming, featuring supervised beaches during the summer season. While not a lake, the Cave of the Cranes also has a small lake that forms during the rainy season where visitors can cool off, and the Toll de l'Olla Waterfall is a popular spot for cooling off. Please note that swimming is not permitted at the Plan d'eau de Prades.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available around the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent hiking. Around Lac des Bouillouses, you can embark on challenging hikes to peaks like Carlit. The Rabassoles Ponds and Estany del Castellar are also great for nature lovers and hikers, with opportunities to spot wildlife. For more general hiking options in the area, you can explore various routes like 'The caves of Pere & Abellera - Circular from Prades' or 'Abellera Hermitage – Main Square of Prades loop from Prades' which are part of the hiking guide around Prades.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes near Prades?
Yes, the Plan d'eau de Prades, located close to the town, is primarily designated for fishing. It also offers walking paths and a picnic area, with a restaurant nearby. For more information on fishing permits, you may need to check local regulations.
What is the best time to visit Lac des Bouillouses?
Lac des Bouillouses is a popular destination, especially in July. Due to its popularity, access during July is restricted to a bus service to manage tourist influx. Visiting outside of peak season might offer a more serene experience, though the stunning alpine landscape is beautiful year-round.
Are there any historical or unique natural landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers unique natural landmarks. The Cave of the Cranes is a unique site featuring a Romanesque apse-shaped cave and a fifty-meter waterfall during the rainy season. Lac Campauleil, formed in 1941 after the construction of a dam, holds historical significance as a hydroelectric project.
Are there any lakes suitable for cycling or other outdoor sports?
While specific cycling paths directly around all lakes aren't detailed, the broader Prades region offers extensive cycling opportunities. You can find various routes, from challenging road cycling to touring bicycle routes, in the cycling guide around Prades and the road cycling guide. These routes often pass through scenic areas that may include views of the lakes or nearby natural features.
What amenities are available at the Plan d'eau de Prades?
The Plan d'eau de Prades offers walking paths, a picnic area, and is designated for fishing. There is also a restaurant, 'Bon Profit,' conveniently located nearby. For more details, you can visit the official tourism pages: tourism-mediterraneanpyrenees.com or tourisme-pyreneesorientales.com.
Are there any lakes with unique geological features?
Yes, the Rabassoles Ponds are notable for their stunning setting with waters shining against a backdrop of granite cliffs. The Blue pond, in particular, is known for its strikingly clear, deep blue waters surrounded by rock formations. The Toll de l'Ou Waterfalls also feature unique pools carved into the rocks, joined by small waterfalls.
Can I take a chairlift to explore higher altitudes near the lakes?
Yes, near Lac de Matemale, visitors can take a chairlift from the lake up to the Roc d'Aude station for further exploration and to enjoy higher altitude views.
What kind of wildlife can be observed around the lakes?
The area around Estany del Castellar is particularly rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot native wildlife such as marmots and ibex, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
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