Baciver Lakes Hike in Val d'Aran, Val d'Aran

Discover the beauty of Val d'Aran and the Pyrenees Mountains with an active excursion hiking the Cirque de Baciver trail, a 3-mile (5-km) semi-circular route in the Pla de Beret nature reserve. This moderate trek follows the Dolent River through a small valley and high mountain meadows to the glacial lakes of Baciver, so you'll get plenty of scenic vistas and viewpoints. Though not signposted (which is why a guided hike is best), the trail is suitable for beginners and families with older children, even those without much trekking experience. Enjoy the beautiful high mountain landscapes and fresh air of Northern Spain!

This excursion features Northern Spain's beautiful mountainous scenery, set on the border of Vall d'Aran and Pallars Sobirá at the source of the Garonne River. You'll conquer the Cirque de Baciver trail, ending at the beautiful Baciver de Baix Lake, which you'll find within the Baciver glacier area in the Marimanya Massif. This location means the lake is surrounded by genuinely incredible alpine views and is a great place to stop and take in the area's natural beauty.

You'll meet your professional hiking guide not too far from the trailhead in Baqueria, a small mountain village in the Val d'Aran area. After getting to know your guide and learning more about what the hike entails, you'll set off, starting at the source of the Garonne River and making your way into the scenic Pla de Beret nature reserve. The river's source is just a trickle, but you'll already enjoy panoramic views from this spot.

Next, you'll follow a different river upstream into the mountains, gaining about 1,600 feet (500 m) of elevation. Your destination is the Baciver glacier area, filled with glacial lakes, including Lake Baciver de Baix. Though it's classified as a moderate hike, anyone with a decent fitness level can accomplish the trek, even families (best with older kids). As you make your way along the route, you'll enjoy wetlands, forests, and meadows, then start gaining more altitude. Your guide will take several breaks so you can rest, enjoy the views, and learn more about the region's history and geology. 

At the top of the lake, you'll have time to rest your legs and enjoy any snacks you brought along with you, plus continue to relish the scenery. Your guide can help you understand where you are, naming the mountain peaks and pointing out popular destinations in each direction. On a clear day, you can see several mountains, lakes, and valleys. After your break, you'll head back down on a slightly different trail to enjoy more unique viewpoints. Plan for about four hours in total and enjoy this immersion in Val d'Aran's natural beauty.