Top 20 Lakes around Fontrabiouse
Best lakes around Fontrabiouse are primarily found within the Massif du Carlit and around the Lac des Bouillouses, offering a diverse natural landscape. This area in the Catalan Pyrenees is known for its high-altitude lakes and serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails. The region features both natural and artificial lakes, providing varied outdoor experiences. It is recognized for its ecological importance, with sites like Lac des Bouillouses being part of the Natura 2000 network.
Best lakes around Fontrabiouse
…Last updated: June 22, 2026
Lake Bouillouses
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En Beys Refuge
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Viver Lake
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Lake Matemale
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Estany del Castellar
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Tips from the Community
One of the highest of the Carlit ponds, more steep-sided, fed by a small waterfall: this pond is worth a visit.
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Lake Matemale with its beautiful beaches is located at an altitude of 1500 metres and therefore the water is between 19 and 23°.
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At Estany del Castellar you will discover a tranquil alpine lake, surrounded by rugged peaks and lush green meadows. The crystal clear waters are reflected in the mountains, creating a picture-perfect scene. The Estany del Castellar area is also known for its rich biodiversity, so keep an eye out for native wildlife such as marmots and ibex. This lake is an interesting destination for hikers and nature lovers.
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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 En Beys refuge which overlooks the eponymous ponds culminates at an altitude of 1,970 meters, in the heart of the Orlu national reserve. Situated on the great GR 7 which connects the Vosges to the Pyrenees, the refuge remains an excellent detour for the GRP® tour of the Ax Mountains or Tour des Pérics. In a warm and family setting, the refuge guardians offer 70 beds in high season as well as a complete catering offer. In winter, 15 places remain freely accessible, accessible through the window at the top of the ladder which fits on one of the walls of the building. The refuge is an ideal place to observe the burning of the granite walls of the Pics Rouges at sunset, or the galloping chamois in the snowfields in the early morning. If you wish to extend your stay for one night, do not hesitate to contact the refuge on 05 61 64 24 24 to find out about opening dates and bed availability.
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Very easy hike, you might encounter some snow, be ready for it. Its a highly transited so unless it snowed recently it will be compacted and icy. Not demanding at all and suitable even with kids probably.
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The En Beys pond is part of a group of three ponds: the En Beys pond, the Couillade pond and the herb pond. A guarded refuge is present on the banks at the Gourd Gaudet pond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most scenic lakes around Fontrabiouse?
The most scenic lakes are primarily found within the Massif du Carlit and around the Lake Bouillouses. Lake Bouillouses is renowned for its crystalline waters and dramatic mountain vistas. Within the Massif du Carlit, lakes like Estany del Castellar offer tranquil alpine settings with rugged peaks and lush meadows.
What hiking opportunities are available around the lakes?
Lake Bouillouses serves as a popular starting point for numerous trails, including paths leading to the Pic du Carlit. You can find signposted loops like the Loop of the Pradella (1h30) or the Carlit ponds loop (2h20 for 9 lakes or 3h30 for 12 lakes). Viver Lake is also part of an easy hike.
Are there easy walks around Fontrabiouse lakes suitable for families?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. The hike to Viver Lake is noted as very easy and suitable even with kids. Lake Matemale also offers a nice, short tour that can be done well with children, and its facilities include a beach with activities.
What other outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond hiking, the lakes offer various activities. The waters of Lake Bouillouses are stocked with brown and rainbow trout, making it popular for fishing. Climbing is also a popular activity in the area. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Lake Matemale – Lake Matemale loop from Les Angles' which is a moderate gravel biking route. Find more cycling options in the Cycling around Fontrabiouse guide.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Fontrabiouse?
The high-altitude lakes are best visited during warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and shuttle services to places like Lake Bouillouses are operational. Vehicle access to Lake Bouillouses is restricted in summer (July and August) to protect the site, with shuttle buses available.
How can I access Lac des Bouillouses?
During summer (July and August), vehicle access to Lac des Bouillouses is restricted. Visitors can reach the lake by shuttle bus from Pla de Barrès, by chairlift from Font-Romeu, or via various footpaths. An on-site hotel, Hôtel des Bones Hores, offers accommodation and refreshments.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, there are several cycling routes. For gravel biking, you can find routes like the 'Lake Matemale – Lake Matemale loop from Les Angles' (moderate, 16.4 km). For road cycling, consider the 'Lake Matemale – Col de la Perche (1,579 m) loop from Puyvalador' (moderate, 52.8 km). More options are available in the Gravel biking around Fontrabiouse and Road Cycling Routes around Fontrabiouse guides.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around the lakes?
The area, particularly the Massif du Carlit, is known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors might spot native wildlife such as marmots and ibex. You might also encounter free-roaming horses and cows near trails around Lake Bouillouses.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, near Lake Bouillouses, the Hôtel des Bones Hores offers accommodation and refreshments. Additionally, the En Beys Refuge, located near the En Beys pond, provides 70 beds in high season and a complete catering offer. Lake Matemale also has a café with a sea terrace near the boat dock.
What makes the lakes in the Massif du Carlit special?
The Massif du Carlit is home to a cluster of about a dozen lakes, often referred to as 'Lacs du Carlit' or 'Estanys'. These lakes are nestled in a wild, high-mountain landscape, offering diverse hiking trails like the 'Circuit of the 9 Lakes of the Carlit'. They provide spectacular scenery with rugged peaks and are known for their rich biodiversity.
What is the ecological importance of these lakes?
Lac des Bouillouses, for example, is recognized as a classified natural site since 1976 and is part of the Natura 2000 network, highlighting its significant ecological importance. The entire region is part of the Natural Park of the Catalan Pyrenees, emphasizing its protected status and biodiversity.
Can I find information about the Bouillouses Classified Site?
Yes, for more detailed information about the Bouillouses Classified Site, including its ecological significance and regulations, you can visit the official tourism website: tourism-mediterraneanpyrenees.com.
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