Here’s the ultimate list of the most unique lakes in Spain that any nature lover shouldn’t miss. While Spain is mostly known for its stunning Mediterranean coast, many might be surprised to discover that the Iberian Peninsula is filled with hidden natural gems.

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15 Most Unique Lakes to Visit in Spain

Top Spanish lakes to visit

While Spain often garners international attention for its stunning beaches and coastal towns, there are a few unique lakes that every nature lover should add to their Spain bucket list. These lakes provide serene escapes and highlight the country’s incredible natural diversity. Spanish lakes, particularly in the central region like Castile-La Mancha, appear almost otherworldly against the vast, dry landscapes. However, Spain’s range of landscapes also includes crystal-clear alpine lakes and peaceful reservoirs, ideal for hiking, picnicking, water sports, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views.

Here’s an ultimate list of 15 of the most beautiful lakes in Spain, some of which were delightful discoveries during my 15 years in the country. In the end of this post you can also check out the map with all the locations.

Lake Sanabria / Zamora

Located in the province of Zamora, Lake Sanabria is the largest glacial lake in Spain. Despite its size, it is less known to international visitors due to its remote location, far from major Spanish landmarks. Nestled within the Sanabria Lake Natural Park, this stunning lake lies near the Portuguese border. It takes about 2 hours to reach from the nearest cities, Leon and Zamora, and almost 3 hours from Santiago de Compostela. Known for its breathtaking natural scenery, Lake Sanabria is surrounded by dense forests and mountain views, making it one of the best-preserved lakes in Spain.

Lagunas de Ruidera / Castilla-La Mancha

The Ruidera Lagoons are one of my favorite Spanish lakes, located within the stunning Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park. This park features a series of 15 interconnected lakes, which are considered one of the most beautiful natural gems in the Castilla-La Mancha region of central Spain. These serene, turquoise waters are ideal for kayaking, and the surrounding area is rich in diverse wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park is also a popular stop along the famous Don Quixote route, adding a cultural touch to its natural beauty.

Lagunas de Ruidera Spain
Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park – one of Spain’s hidden natural gems
Lagunas de ruidera lakes in spain
The Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park is a popular stop along the famous Don Quixote road trip
Lagunas de Ruidera Spain
Lagunas de Ruidera is one of the most beautiful natural settings in the Castilla-La Mancha

Lake Banyoles / Catalonia

Located near Girona, Lake Banyoles is Catalonia’s largest natural lake and a popular spot for rowing, swimming, and fishing. It’s an ideal weekend getaway from Barcelona. The serene waters are surrounded by scenic trails, perfect for hiking or cycling. The lake’s natural beauty even made it the venue for rowing competitions during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

Lakes of Covadonga / Asturias

The Lakes of Covadonga are among the most well-known lakes in Spain, located in the stunning Picos de Europa National Park. These glacial lakes are surrounded by lush, green mountains and are considered a must-visit stop on any Northern Spain road trip. Thanks to the breathtaking views of the mountain peaks reflected in the peaceful waters Covadonga lakes is one of the most popular natural gems in the whole of Spain. During my recent road trip through Asturias, I attempted to visit the Lakes of Covadonga, but unfortunately, the weather conditions were terrible. The thick fog and rain made it impossible to see the lakes. Nevertheless, it’s one of Asturias’ most iconic landmarks, and I hope to get luckier with the weather on my next visit.

Asturias Spain Covadonga Lakes
My attempt to visit the Lakes of Covadonga during a road trip through Asturias

Laguna Negra de Urbion / Soria

Laguna Negra de Urbion was such an incredible discovery during my recent trip to Soria, one of the lesser-known Spanish provinces in the Castile-Leon region. Nestled among pine forests and granite cliffs, the dark waters of the lagoon are steeped in legends. While you can take a bus from the car park toward the lagoon (at least this service was available in the summer when we visited), there’s still a 2 km walk to reach it and enjoy the views from the wooden pathways. Next time, I dream of visiting Laguna Negra de Urbion in winter, as I feel the snow would add an extra touch of magic to this Spanish lake.

laguna negra de urbion hiking spain

7 lakes of Astun / Aragon

Visiting the 7 Glacier Lakes of Astun (also known as Los 7 Ibones de Astun) along the Spain-France border was an absolute highlight of one of my first Spanish Pyrenees road trips, and it truly made me fall in love with the Aragonese Pyrenees mountain range (an epic destination I’ve returned to multiple times). While the Pyrenees are known for their many glacial lakes, what I loved about Astun is that at least one of the lakes, Ibon de las Truchas, was easily accessible (thanks to a ski lift that takes you right near it). However, to explore the rest of the lakes, you’ll need to set out on a moderately challenging hike. Yet, it’s a trek that felt so rewarding that I’ve included it on my list of favorite hikes in Spain.

spanish pyrenees road trip itinerary - 7 lakes of Astun
7 lakes of Astun – one of my favorite hikes in Spain

Embalse de la Serena / Extremadura

While I didn’t get a chance to visit Embalse de la Serena on my recent road trip across the region, I’ve always been curious about it, as it’s known as one of the largest reservoirs in Spain. This vast artificial lake is surrounded by rolling hills and is a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing. Since Extremadura is quite off-the-beaten-path destination in Spain, Embalse de la Serena must be nestled in peaceful landscapes, making it perfect for quiet outdoor activities.

Embalse de Yesa, Navarra / Aragon

Embalse de Yesa, often called “the Sea of the Pyrenees,” is a large reservoir on the Aragon River, straddling the border of Navarra and Aragon. Despite my frequent road trips through Aragon, I had no idea this place existed until I stumbled upon it while visiting the Leyre Monastery, one of Spain’s secret monasteries. By the way, if you plan to visit, it’s better to access it from Navarra rather than Aragon, as the road from Aragon is much worse. Also, near Embalse de Yesa, you’ll find one of my favorite Spanish castles, Castillo de Javier.

Lago de Panticosa / Aragon

Lago de Panticosa was one of the highlights of my recent trip to the Aragonese Pyrenees. Located at an impressive altitude of 1,800 meters, this glacial lake is surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, and I would easily call it one of Spain’s most serene and picturesque lakes. What makes Lago de Panticosa stand out is not only its striking beauty but also its accessibility. Additionally, the lake is located near the Panticosa Spa, which exceeded my expectations as well. The water in the area is known for its healing properties, and even in July, the spa was not crowded, so I still remember soaking in one of the outdoor pools while enjoying the magical views of the Panticosa Lake.

Lago de Carucedo / Leon

Lago de Carucedo is located just 30 minutes from the Spanish town of Ponferrada in Castile-Leon region, right near the ancient Roman gold mines of Las Medulas (known as one of the top otherworldly Spanish landscapes). In addition to its stunning natural beauty, the lake is famous for a mysterious Spanish legend. According to local folklore, the lake was formed by the tears of a heartbroken woman. The most well-known version of the legend tells the story of a Roman woman named Carisa or Caruceda, who fell deeply in love with a Roman soldier stationed in the region during the time the Romans were exploiting the nearby mines. Tragically, the soldier was killed in battle, leaving Carisa devastated. Overcome with grief, she is said to have cried so much that her tears created the lake, which was later named Lago de Carucedo.

Embalse de Lanuza / Aragon

Embalse de Lanuza is a reservoir near the charming town of Lanuza, one of the most picturesque small towns in the Pyrenees. It is a popular spot for kayaking, and the entire region is considered one of the most beautiful areas in this mountain range. Although I’ve never seen this location listed among the famous Spanish lakes or reservoirs, it is undoubtedly a picture-perfect destination and one of my personal favorites.

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Embalse de Lanuza – one of the most beautiful areas in the Pyrenees
Small towns in the spanish pyrenees lanuza
Lanuza is one of the most picturesque small towns in the Pyrenees

Lagunas de Sierra de Gredos / Avila

While Avila is mostly known for having some of the best-preserved medieval walls in Europe and could easily be called a real-life fairytale location in Spain, there’s a hidden natural gem located nearby – Lagunas de Sierra de Gredos. This group of glacial lakes is surrounded by rugged peaks and nestled in the heart of the Gredos mountain range. The area is particularly famous for its crystal-clear waters. Since the hike to the lakes is quite challenging and off the beaten path for tourists, Lagunas de Sierra de Gredos is a great destination for adventure lovers in Spain.

Estany de Sant Maurici / Catalonia

The glacial lake Estany de Sant Maurici is located in the heart of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, one of the most unique national parks in Spain. This lake was an absolute highlight of my weekend in the Pyrenees of Catalonia. While this stunning destination can be included in any Pyrenees road trip from Barcelona, it requires at least a 9-km hike (which is relatively easy) through mountain peaks and lush forests. In addition, I visited Aigüestortes National park in October, and I can confidently recommend it as one of the most beautiful autumn destinations in Spain.

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Estany de Sant Maurici in the Pyrenees of Catalonia
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Aigüestortes National park is one of the most beautiful autumn destinations in Spain

Embalse del Guadalteba / Malaga

Located in the El Chorro region of Malaga, Embalse de Guadalteba is one of the top reservoirs in sun-kissed Southern Spain. The area is ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and paddleboarding. It’s also close to the famous Caminito del Rey hiking trail, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers in Spain.

Laguna de Fuente de Piedra / Malaga

Laguna de Fuente de Piedra is one of Spain’s largest natural saltwater lagoons, located in Andalusia. It is renowned for its impressive population of flamingos and is a popular birdwatching destination. During spring, thousands of flamingos migrate here to breed, creating a unique and colorful natural spectacle.

Map of the coolest lakes and reservoirs in Spain

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Best Spanish lakes

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