"The Engolasters Trail is an interesting option for those looking for easy hiking in Andorra. It's a short, linear route of just 2 km, with no significant elevation gains: 408 meters. The route takes approximately 2 hours, divided into 1 hour and 15 minutes for the outward journey and 45 minutes for the return journey, as the gradient is moderate on this route. Located in the parish of Encamp, the most recommended months for hiking are from June to September. However, weather and terrain permitting, the season could be extended from May to October.
Brief description of the route
The starting point of this route is the town of Encamp, in the parish of the same name. Specifically, in front of the Automobile Museum , you'll find the signs marking the start of the route to Engolasters Lake and the Blanc River. The route heads south, crossing waterways, paths, and some roads, which should always be crossed with extreme caution. The route joins the GR-11 , one of the long-distance trails that runs through Andorra. The signs to follow are therefore white and red.
During the walk, you'll appreciate the typical flora of the area, with species such as the frayed carnation. The route is also dotted with typical Andorran buildings, such as the Cresper hut.
What you will discover at Lake Engolasters
On this route through Lake Engolasters, Andorra, you'll discover landscapes characteristic of our country and, above all, a natural resource that Andorrans have used for recreational purposes as well as for industrial purposes. In fact, the Museu de l'Electricitat (Electricity Museum) organizes guided tours to explore its dam, 178 meters long and essential for our energy production until very recently. The dam was built in 1934 by the Andorran Hydroelectric Power Plant (FHASA), and boasts the largest waterfall in the country.
Nowadays, its use is quite different: in addition to this hiking route, there are also active tourism options at its adventure park, which opens its doors when the winter season in Andorra ends. This adventure park offers zip lines, balance games, and many other activities, primarily aimed at children.
This route around Engolasters Lake also hides original and somewhat sinister legends about witches. Locals say that there used to be a village here that was swallowed by water, also due to the audacity of its men: they would come at night to watch the witches bathe naked in the lake. As punishment, the witches would turn anyone who dared to come with this intention into a black cat. Fortunately, the witches abandoned this place at the beginning of the 20th century, coinciding with the construction of the dam and hydroelectric plant.
You'll find more details about this and other routes in the Andorra Trails Hiking Guide ."
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