Lago de la Ercina
Lago de la Ercina is a small mountain lake situated at about 3,600 feet (1,100 meters) above sea level, surrounded by rocky outcrops and green meadows used for grazing. The water is clear and shallow, roughly 6 feet (2 meters) deep, with mosses, grasses, and reeds along the shores that create a rich environment for waterfowl like ducks and coots.
The lake was formed by glacial erosion during the ice age, which carved the depression where water now collects. In the late 1970s, efforts were made to prevent the lake from drying out completely, including construction of a small dam to control water levels.
The region around the lake has a long tradition of mountain herding, where shepherds guide sheep and cattle across the high pastures. Visitors sometimes encounter shepherds with their animals on the trails and learn stories about mountain life, while the area also hosts small traditional celebrations with local music and food.
You can reach the lake from the nearby town of Cangas de Onís, where a parking area can fill up on busy days. The walking paths to the lake are gentle and take about an hour, but can be muddy after rain, so bring good shoes and water.
The lake is called Tiese locally and was once larger but is shrinking naturally over time due to sediment buildup. On clear days, you can see the Atlantic Ocean in the distance from the lake, offering a surprising glimpse of the distant sea from this remote mountain lagoon.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
