Lakes of Neila, Nature reserve with glacial lakes in Burgos, Spain
The Lakes of Neila are a group of glacial mountain lakes within a nature reserve in the Sierra de Neila, in the province of Burgos. They sit in a narrow valley flanked by rocky slopes and pine forest, forming a connected series of water bodies at around 1,900 meters above sea level (about 6,200 feet).
During the last ice age, glaciers ground deep hollows into the mountain rock, and when the ice melted these depressions filled with water to become the lakes seen today. The area was later declared a nature reserve to protect this rare glacial landscape in the heart of Castile.
The lakes sit within a protected area of the Sierra de Neila, where marked trails connect the different water bodies and draw walkers throughout the warmer months. The open views and the sound of wind across the water give the place a character that visitors tend to remember.
A mountain road leads close to the lakes, and a short walk on foot covers the remaining distance to reach the water. At this elevation the weather can turn quickly, so warm layers and sturdy footwear are worth bringing even in summer.
The color of the water changes with the seasons, shifting from deep blue in summer to greenish tones in autumn, driven by different algae and mineral levels. This means the lakes look noticeably different depending on when you visit, with no two trips giving quite the same view.
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