The route I propose is a semi-circular route, suitable for families, but requiring a minimum level of physical fitness, as the elevation gain is around 800 metres over a distance of 14 kilometres. The route runs through the Aigüestortes National Park, in the Pallars Sobirà region, specifically in the town of Espot.

It is a very well-marked route, as much of it runs along the ‘Carros de Foc’ route, which circles the national park, passing by each and every one of its nine mountain refuges. Therefore, the surroundings that will accompany us throughout the outing are of incomparable beauty.

Route:

We will leave by car from the town of Espot towards the Prat de Pierró car park, where we will park the car and begin our walk.

As soon as we leave, we will follow the sign for Estany de St. Mauricio and Aigüestortes, which initially has a small wooden section for people with disabilities. The walk to St. Mauricio is about 3 km long and takes less than 1.5 hours. 

At this point, we will find ourselves facing the immensity of Estany de St. Mauricio, from where several routes lead to different destinations, each one more beautiful than the last. We will take the path that leads to Estany de Ratera. Initially, we will go around the Estant de St. Mauricio on its right for about 15 minutes and gradually make our way towards the Ratera Waterfall, continuing for another 30 minutes to the Estany de Ratera. Here we will walk for a while (15 minutes) along the forest track used by taxis to take customers to the Amitges Refuge.

We will arrive at a wooden bridge where we will find a sign that says Mirador de l'Estany. It is about a 25-minute walk along an easy path, and once we reach the viewpoint, we will be able to enjoy magnificent views of the Encantats, the unmistakable symbol of the National Park. Here we can stop for 25 minutes for lunch, as we will have been walking for about 3 hours since leaving the car and the landscape is well worth it.

We go back about 5 minutes and take the left turn that leads to the Amitges Refuge. This section is less frequented by people, so you can enjoy the silence as we make our way to the refuge, which we will reach in just over an hour.

Opposite the refuge are Les Agulles d'Amitges, the name given to the refuge and the lake next to it. It is a visual marvel.

At this point, we will return to the car along the track used by taxis, which starts at the foot of the refuge, to Estany de St. Mauricio. Here we will take the path that leads to the Prat de Pierró car park.