Estanys de la Coma de Sotllo

Estanys de la Coma de Sotllo is a cluster of glacial lakes sitting at roughly 2,500 metres above sea level in the municipality of Alins, in the Pallars Sobirà region of the Catalan Pyrenees. Tucked into a high mountain basin southwest of the Pic de Sotllo, the lakes sit among some of the tallest peaks in the range.

Where exactly are these lakes?

The lakes belong to the Barranc de Sotllo watershed, a stream that feeds into the Noguera de Vallferrera river. Water draining from the Estanys de la Coma de Sotllo flows down to the larger Estany de Sotllo, situated at about 2,343 metres, forming a chain of high-altitude lakes typical of this stretch of the Pyrenees. The surrounding skyline is dominated by Pica d'Estats — the highest summit in Catalonia — along with Pic de Sotllo and Punta Gabarró, giving the area a raw, high-alpine character.

How do you get there?

The Vall Ferrera valley, part of the Alins municipality, is the natural starting point for exploring this area. High mountain trails leading toward Pica d'Estats and its surrounding lakes begin here. The route is considered demanding and best suited to experienced hikers — the terrain is rocky and set at serious altitude, and Pyrenean weather can shift quickly even in summer. Checking current conditions and carrying a proper topographic map is worthwhile, since waymarking thins out considerably in the upper sections.

What will you see once you're there?

Expect a landscape of rocky ridgelines, alpine meadows, and a series of glinting lakes with cold, clear water — a classic scene from the highest reaches of the Catalan Pyrenees. The surrounding valleys add to the appeal: Broate, the Baborte tarns, and the Sellente valley together form one of the more extensive high-mountain hiking areas in Pallars Sobirà. It's a destination for those after solitude, open space, and genuinely wild alpine terrain, away from crowded trails.

Given the altitude and terrain, the lakes are only fully accessible during the summer months, once snow clears from the higher stretches of the route. Outside that window, conditions can turn considerably tougher, so trips here call for careful planning and a generous time buffer.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer — roughly July through September — is the ideal window, when trails are passable and the lakes are free of snow cover. Earlier spring or late autumn visits carry a real risk of lingering snow and harsher conditions above 2,000 metres. Setting off early in the day is also a good idea, since afternoon storms are a recurring feature of the high Pyrenees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Estanys de la Coma de Sotllo suitable for beginner hikers? No — this is high-mountain terrain that demands solid fitness, prior mountain experience, and the right technical gear.

How high up are these lakes? They sit at around 2,500 metres above sea level, right beside the Pic de Sotllo summit.

Are there other attractions nearby worth visiting? Yes — the same area includes the Baborte tarns, the Broate valley, and the Sellente valley, forming a large connected high-mountain zone.

What's the closest valley to start exploring from? The Vall Ferrera valley, part of the Alins municipality, is the natural gateway, with trails heading up toward the highest points of the Catalan Pyrenees.