It is common knowledge that northern Catalonia boasts some of the country’s most beautiful and unique natural landscapes , but what many people don’t know is that some of these places tell stories about our past that are even more impressive than their views.
Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park is a magnificent gem that encompasses more than 200 different lakes, surrounded by cliffs nearly 3,000 meters high and the meandering streams ( aigüestortes) that characterize this place. This combination of factors is so exceptional that it makes it one of the best-preserved environments in all of Europe, with more than 14,000 hectares of protected land.
But if there’s one thing that defines this park as a truly unique place, it’s its origin: its rivers, lakes, and waterfalls originate from glaciers that melted completely after the last Ice Age, some 15,000 years ago, and which have shaped the landscape.
A destination for stargazing and observing native species
All these conditions make this national park a must-visit destination for nature lovers, as visitors can spot native species found exclusively in this area. The Pyrenean chamois, the Pyrenean newt, the Pyrenean desman, and the famous bearded vulture are just a few of the most notable examples.
But if you’re not particularly skilled at birdwatching, there’s an easier way to enjoy the scenery. UNESCO has certified the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park ( ) as a Starlight Reserve and Tourist Destination—in other words, one of the best places in the world to stargaze. The altitude, location, and lack of light pollution mean that the sky can be easily observed from anywhere within the reserve.
Settlements dating back more than 10,000 years
If you’re feeling adventurous or are a fan of Indiana Jones, over the past few decades, several teams of archaeologists have been studying the area and have discovered settlements dating back more than 10 millennia.
However, these sites are not easy to visit. They consist of outdoor structures and settlements, some located inside natural caves and others much more recent. They are visible if you can find their exact location, but they are not set up as museums nor marked for hikers.
Rafting and Canyoning on the Noguera Pallaresa River
For those looking for a slightly more intense and fun getaway, there are companies right in the national park that offer much more extreme water sports and activities—the kind that are only possible in settings like this. For a very reasonable price, you can enjoy a family day of rafting on the Noguera Pallaresa River, or discover canyoning by sliding down various canyons and ravines found along the river and its tributaries.
