Certascan Lake

Certascan Lake is a glacial lake surrounded by high mountain peaks and framed by steep rocky slopes in the Catalan Pyrenees. A mountain refuge and network of marked trails provide access to the water and connect outward to the surrounding terrain.

The lake formed through glacial action in ancient times and later became part of regional infrastructure development. In 1974 a hydroelectric power station was built in the Tavascan area, connecting the water system to the regional electricity grid.

The lake is part of the protected Alt Pirineu Natural Park area and shapes how the surrounding mountain valleys look and feel. Visitors can see how the landscape here balances traditional uses with nature conservation.

Visitors should prepare for mountain conditions and changing weather, as the high elevation brings significant variation throughout the day. The mountain refuge network provides guidance and support, while marked trails are accessible to hikers of different experience levels.

The water feeds river systems that flow downward into the valleys, demonstrating the water's importance beyond the lake itself. This connection becomes particularly visible during spring snowmelt, when the volume of water flowing downstream increases noticeably.