Estany de l'Illa & Refugi
The Estany de l’Illa - a high lake and staffed refuge at the head of the UNESCO Madriu valley
The route
The line through Madriu valley (Encamp), Andorra - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Jun-Oct
Exposed alpine weather - afternoon thunderstorms, cold, wind, snow lingering; start early and check the forecast
Snow-free ~Jun-Oct. Confirm.
On the trail
The upper Madriu valley to a high lake and refuge
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Overnight at the refuge; the full Madriu traverse
Getting there & staying
Grau Roig / Madriu valley, from Encamp
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Refugi de l’Illa (staffed in season)
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Encamp; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; UNESCO Madriu valley; staffed refuge
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Weather, the length, altitude
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.