The network of lakes in the Vall Fosca watershed was successfully harnessed in the early twentieth century to generate energy with what was Catalonia’s first hydroelectric plant. It signified the start of an authentic revolution for the valleys of the Catalan Pyrenees, as can be learned by visiting the Hydroelectric Museum of Capdella.
Its name (“Dark Valley”) comes from the geography it occupies: it is narrow and surrounded by large mountains. However, it is a far from gloomy territory. With 20-plus ponds in the north which form the Capdella lakes, water is the main resource of Vall Fosca; the Flamisell river crosses it joyfully from mid-mountain down to La Pobla de Segur. It is its backbone and flows through the 19 small towns which make up the valley. Along its banks grow plentiful groves of poplar, ash and aspen, of pine, holly and oak.
Hydroelectric Museum of Capdella
A visit full of energy
Vall Fosca cable car
Hanging from the sky
After a 14-minute climb and clearing a 450-metre ascent, this spectacular cable car becomes the starting point of many adventures in the valley. It was designed in 1989 for the construction of the Sallente dam, and if any travellers doubt about whether it will hold their weight, they should know it is capable of transporting up to...a truckload of concrete!
El Cinquè Llac
Hiking in stages
The Cinquè Llac (Fifth Lake) will begin to show itself from the various peaks passed on this circular route which has become a true point of reference. The 100-km route is divided into five stages which wind around the base of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, awarding hikers a collection of marvellous high-mountain landscapes.
A web of overlooks
Picture-postcard views
It may seem like a paradox, but sometimes you have to stand back to see a place more clearly. Though not too far away, either: just the distance of one of the eight fenced overlooks which, from the heights, guarantee the best views of the landscape of Vall Fosca. Pick your favourite! Or even better, visit them all.
Mountain lodgings
To suit all tastes
Frequently, true luxury lies not in the number of stars on a hotel’s door, but in the details and in the enclave chosen. Such is the case with the lodging options in Vall Fosca: hotels far away from hustle and bustle, old village houses renovated with taste, or campgrounds, hostels and refuges in direct contact with nature.
Vall Fosca Pyrenees Hiking Festival
Weekend hiking
This year will mark the festival’s sixth edition from 15 to 18 July and it will be a long-awaited opportunity to enjoy Vall Fosca’s natural beauty once again. The hiking trips will be complemented by the chance to discover the tradition of the brena, the food packed for the journey, and other very special experiences.
Carrilet Greenway
Hiking on the tracks
The old train which once served to transport material and workers has been converted
into a perfect plan for hiking with the family. The path on which the old tracks can still be seen begins at Gento Lake (at 2,200 m): four tunnels and five kilometres of nearly flat greenway with spectacular views.
Fair of La Pobleta
How much is that cow?
It has been held since long ago, coinciding with the first weekend in October with the descent of the nomadic herds. If in the past it set the prices for the other fairs, today it has evolved into a cultural event with demonstrations of old trades, artisan crafts and a community breakfast for sampling girella, a traditional cured meat.
