Lake Engolasters
Lake Mountain reservoir above Andorra la Vella, hiking destination
Mountain lake above Andorra la Vella, reachable by road and trails; popular for day hikes, short alpine walks, and views of the Pyrenees plus nearby hydroelectric works.
Lake Engolasters is a high‑altitude mountain lake in the parish of Encamp in Andorra, sitting at about 1,616 metres above sea level. It is a notable local outdoor destination and viewpoint above the main valley.
A panoramic cable car from Encamp provides direct access to the lake area and nearby walking trails, viewpoints and picnic spots, making it popular for short hikes and day visits. The site offers wide views over the Gran Valira valley and surrounding Pyrenean slopes.
Water from the lake has been used for hydroelectric generation that contributed to Andorra’s early electrification and local energy supply. The lakeshore and adjacent paths have long been used for recreation by residents and visitors.
Located above the town of Encamp in eastern Andorra, the lake lies on mountain slopes overlooking the principal valley that contains Andorra la Vella and other central parishes.
- Cable car access: Reached by a panoramic cable car from Encamp that provides direct access to trails and viewpoints near the lake.
- Elevation: Sits at high altitude - about 1,616 metres above sea level - offering mountain views and cool alpine conditions year-round.
How to Get to Lake Engolasters #
A short mountain road and a funicular/cable-car from Escaldes-Engordany provide the most direct access: Funicamp operates regular services from the town. For drivers, a narrow paved road leads up from Andorra la Vella; parking is available near the lake but can fill at weekends.
Tips for Visiting Lake Engolasters #
- Take the Funicamp cable car from Escaldes-Engordany to access higher trails; it's cheaper in the morning.
- Bring windproof layers - the alpine air can change suddenly even on warm days.
- Most walkers use the southern shore trail; the picnic area near the dam is a favorite local spot.
Best Time to Visit Lake Engolasters #
Lake Engolasters is a high-altitude reservoir above Andorra la Vella, fed by mountain streams and integrated into the principality's hydroelectric history and recreational life.
Weather & Climate near Lake Engolasters #
Lake Engolasters's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -5°C to 21°C. Abundant rainfall (1094 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -5°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -5°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (116 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (113 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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