Cadbella Lakes, A group of lakes in Spain
Cadbella Lakes is a system of interconnected lakes in the Spanish Pyrenees near La Torre de Cabdella, linked together by underground channels and small dams. The lakes sit at different elevations between roughly 8,000 and 8,700 feet (2,400 and 2,650 meters) and supply water to a hydroelectric plant built in 1985.
Early hydroelectric stations in this region date back to the early 20th century, when the first power station in Catalonia was built and helped modernize the area. The lake system was later expanded through the construction of dams and underground tunnels to store water for electricity production.
The name Cadbella refers to the water-rich landscape of this mountain region. Today, locals and visitors view the lakes as both a source of regional identity and a working part of the energy system that supports nearby communities.
A hiking trail about five kilometers long follows an old railway route and passes through tunnels and over the Lake Gento dam with views of the lakes and surrounding peaks. The walk is gentle and accessible for most people, though good footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for mountain conditions.
The underground channels connecting the lakes date back to the early 20th century and show the engineering innovation of that era. Visitors can still see parts of this early infrastructure along the old railway path, which continues to function beneath the modern hydroelectric system.
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