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Lake of Bouillouses

Pyrénées-Orientales • Alt. ~2,016 m

Lac des Bouillouses

A protected natural site in the heart of the Pyrenees: an early 20th-century dam, trailheads to the Carlit lakes, fishing, panoramas and mountain inns. Perfect for a “Lake & Mountain” escape.

Commune: Les Angles & Angoustrine Superficie ~149 ha Émissaire: la Têt

History

Lac des Bouillouses is an artificial reservoir created by a dam built between 1903 and 1910, then raised in the mid-20th century. It regulates the flow of the Têt river and feeds hydroelectric production.

Status: protected natural site since 1976 – strict conservation of habitats. Please stay on marked trails.

  • Uses: drinking water, irrigation, hydropower, low-impact tourism.
  • Toponymy: from Catalan bullosa, “bubbling”.
  • Heritage: emblematic structure of the Pyrénées-Orientales.

Geography

Located between Cerdagne and Capcir, the lake covers around 149 ha at an altitude of about 2,016 m. It is surrounded by mountain pine, heathland and wetlands, and gives access to the routes to the Carlit lakes.
  • Department: Pyrénées-Orientales (Occitanie)
  • Municipalities: Les Angles, Angoustrine-Villeneuve-des-Escaldes
  • Outflow: the Têt river (towards the Mediterranean)

Location & access

In summer, road access is regulated: you’ll usually use the shuttle bus or the chairlift, depending on the period. Off-season, access by car may be possible depending on conditions.
  • From Les Angles: summer shuttle to the dam (frequency varies).
  • From Font-Romeu / Mont-Louis: access via the D60 road (subject to regulations).
  • Mountain weather: bring warm layers, water, sun protection & a map.
Maps (directions): Open in Google Maps

Tip: search for “Barrage des Bouillouses” to park close to the main trailheads.

Activities

Walks & viewpoints

  • Partial loop along the shores (family-friendly, little elevation gain).
  • Viewpoints over the dam and surrounding ridges.
  • SENSITIVE AREAS: follow all on-site signage.

Fishing (regulated)

  • Brown trout, rainbow trout, Arctic char.
  • Fishing licence & open seasons: check before you go.

Beyond the lake

  • Carlit lakes (chain of glacial lakes).
  • Pic Carlit (2,921 m) for experienced hikers.

Hikes (selection)

“Lower lakes” loop

  • Distance: ~6–7 km • Elevation gain: ~200 m • 2–3 h
  • Via Estany de la Pradella, Negre, Llarg…
  • Very scenic, great for families.
Official topo PDF (60 km of trails)

Pic Carlit via the lakes

  • Long alpine hike (good weather essential).
  • Start near the dam • rocky sections.
  • Huge Pyrenees / Mediterranean views in clear conditions.
Route ideas

Safety: mountain weather changes quickly, with possible afternoon storms in summer. Take an IGN map, water, warm layers and respect all protected areas.

Restaurants & accommodation

Les Bones Hores (lakeside)

Mountain-style cuisine with lake views. Booking recommended in high season. Official website

Auberge du Carlit (Les Angles)

Practical option for hikers: rooms & half-board options. Info & booking

Other hotels & huts

Depending on the season: hotels in Les Angles, Font-Romeu, Mont-Louis + nearby mountain huts. Les Angles tourism office

Useful links

Lac des Bouillouses protected site (Official 66) Topo PDF – Trails & map Hikes – inspiration & routes Google Maps location

Stay in the heart of the Catalan Country and the Roussillon

Two unique retreats between sea and mountains: design, comfort and Mediterranean light. Choose your home — we’ll handle the rest.

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