Laguna de Valdeazores

Laguna de Valdeazores is the only permanent natural lagoon in the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park, in the province of Jaén, Andalusia — the largest protected natural area in Spain. The lagoon formed after an old landslide blocked the course of the Arroyo de la Reina stream; a small retaining wall was later added to help keep its water level stable throughout the year. Framed by steep slopes and pine forest, it feels like a quiet, hidden pocket of the park, reached after a fairly demanding hike along the Borosa River.

How do you get there?

The classic approach follows the Borosa River trail, a well-known route that winds through a narrow gorge past waterfalls and clear pools. Along the way hikers pass the striking Salto de los Órganos waterfall before the path climbs toward the lagoon itself, with the final stretch to the water covering roughly 4.4 km. Given the elevation gain and the overall length of the outing, it is worth setting aside a full day, wearing proper hiking boots, and carrying enough water.

What will you see?

After the noisy, cascading stretch of the gorge, the lagoon itself offers a striking sense of calm — still water framed by rocky slopes and trees. It draws waterfowl, and visitors regularly spot mallards, coots and moorhens resting on its surface. Early in the morning or toward evening, the area around the lagoon can also attract some of the park's larger animals, including deer, wild goats and mouflon, which come down to drink. For anyone interested in wildlife, this is one of the highlights of the whole Borosa route.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for the hike, when temperatures inside the gorge are milder and water levels in the river and lagoon tend to be higher, which adds to the scenery along the way. Summers can get hot in the valley, especially on the sunnier, more exposed stretches of the trail, so an early start is recommended. In winter the path can be more demanding due to moisture and icy patches on rocky sections, so extra care is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Laguna de Valdeazores the only lake in the park? Yes, it is the only permanent natural body of water in the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park; other pools in the area are either seasonal or man-made.

How did the lagoon form? It formed when a landslide blocked the course of the Arroyo de la Reina stream. A small dam was later added to help the lagoon hold a stable water level.

What wildlife can you spot here? Mallards, coots and moorhens are commonly seen on the water, while deer, wild goats and mouflon are known to visit the surrounding area to drink.

Is the trail to the lagoon difficult? The Borosa River trail is long and requires reasonable fitness, but it is not technically demanding — it follows a clearly marked path through the gorge, passing the Salto de los Órganos waterfall before reaching the lagoon.