Want to discover a less explored route? We’ll tell you all about the Llacs del Clòt der Os.

Today we are going to talk about a magical place that seems to be trapped in time. A small paradise of tranquility and natural beauty, where the sound of water is the soundtrack. The Llacs del Clòt der Os, an Aranese name that means something like “Lakes of the Bear’s Hollow”. It is located near Vielha, the capital of the Aran Valley, and is a place that you should include on your list of things to visit on your next trip to this region.

It is a little-known place of glacial origin, surrounded by high mountains and green meadows: privileged landscapes that offer a sense of peace and harmony. If you want to discover them for a quiet hiking route, a picnic, or simply to enjoy the landscape, in this article we will tell you everything you need to know. Will you join us?

Route to the Llacs del Clòt der Os

Visitors to the region who are lucky enough to climb to the Llacs del Clòt der Os describe the experience as unique and special. The difficulty of the route is moderate, and can be done by hikers with an acceptable physical condition and some knowledge of what it means to walk in high mountains. The route is well identified and allows for a relaxed experience, especially during the summer months. In winter, only the most experienced will be able to complete this route, and not always.

There is a positive difference in altitude of approximately 300 meters, with small climbs and flat areas, making it an interesting mix of progression and a quiet pace next to streams of water that provide a fantastic visual stimulus. Don’t forget to bring mountain hiking shoes and clothing, as well as water, snacks, a map of the area, and other items you may need. Also, always check the weather forecast before starting the route.

Difficulty and duration of the route

The main route that allows you to enjoy the Llacs del Clòt der Os is of medium difficulty, that is, although it is not a technical route, it cannot be said that it is simply a “walk”. It is essential to be in good physical shape and wear the appropriate equipment: specialized footwear, thermal clothing, a map, water and a walking stick are the minimum for a quiet route.  

It is a route that usually takes between 2 to 3 hours, round trip, but this depends on the pace we want to apply. If you want to stop to appreciate the landscapes and visit points of interest along the way, it is likely to take a little longer. It is a safe route, mainly in the spring and summer months, when the weather is more stable. In winter, it is advisable to take extra precautions, as we are talking about a high mountain route.

The lakes

The Llacs del Clòt der Os, that is, the lakes that are the main attraction of the place, are several lakes of glacial origin, at different altitudes and of small size, but their prominence in the natural environment is undeniable.

A valley shaped by ice

The landscape has many signs that indicate the presence of glaciers, giants of ice that shaped the forms of the lakes, the rocks and all the terrain, creating a wide, open area that contrasts with other parts of the Pyrenees, where the elements are much more vertical.

Mirrors of calm water

The transparent and crystalline water of the lakes is a perfect mirror that reflects the colors of the sky, the clouds and the mountainous peaks that surround the Llacs del Clòt der Os. The green meadows in the warmer months create an idyllic setting, which calls for a photograph and a moment of relaxation.

An environment with little overcrowding

One of the advantages of this place is that it is less known, which means it has fewer people. The atmosphere is generally calm and quiet, which is fantastic for feeling that sense of isolation and connection with nature.

Fauna and nature in the Llacs del Clòt der Os

The Llacs del Clòt der Os are part of a fantastic ecosystem, with vegetation typical of the high mountains, streams, lakes, flowery areas in spring and summer, and wild animals that are not found in many other places. We tell you everything in detail:

Flora

The summer months, between June and August, provide a spectacle created by the various plant species: gentians, buttercups and saxifrages, rhododendrons, arnica montana and junipers color the incredible landscapes of the Pyrenees. Throughout the rest of the year, pines, firs and wildflowers are responsible for giving the landscape a green tone.

Fauna

During your visit to the Llacs del Clòt der Os you can observe different animal species, such as marmots, birds of prey, horses in the meadows and Pyrenean chamois on the highest rocks. The ideal is to walk slowly, at the rhythm of nature, and enjoy all the wonders of this place.

How to get to the Llacs del Clòt der Os

The most common route to get to the Llacs del Clòt der Os starts in Pla de Beret, in the upper part of Baqueira-Beret. To get to this area, you can take the C-28 road from Vielha; when you get to Baqueira, continue up to the car park for visitors in Pla de Beret. Be careful, in some months of the year this access may not be possible, so we recommend that you check the weather conditions and possible traffic restrictions.  

You can also use the shuttles that leave from Vielha and Baqueira: some of them can take you to the Llacs del Clòt der Os route. Once in the Pla de Beret area, there are several paths that will take you to different routes in the region. You just have to look for the signs to get to the Llacs del Clòt der Os and you can enjoy this incredible place.

Discover something unique in the Llacs del Clòt der Os 

A very special environment is what you will find in the Llacs del Clòt der Os, and that is saying a lot in this region of the country. It is one of the many jewels of the Pyrenees, but it is less known than other more publicized alternatives. If you are looking for tranquility, natural beauty and an ideal excursion for everyone, it is a place for you. Come and discover the Aran Valley and you will leave wanting more.
If you want to discover the best accommodations in the Aran Valley, visit Toti Aran Alquiler Baqueira, where you will find the best selection of apartments and luxury homes in the region: fireplace, sauna, terrace and proximity to the ski slopes are some of the features that you can select to choose the perfect home for your vacation.