Estany Gento: the Coldest Place in Spain

Did you know that the coldest place in Spain is located in the Catalan Pyrenees, in the province of Lleida, on the southern edge of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park? It is Estany Gento, a mountain lake situated at an altitude of 2,142 metres in Vall Fosca, in the Pallars Jussà region, within the municipality of La Torre de Cabdella.

Today, Estany Gento is considered the coldest place in Spain. The country’s lowest officially recorded temperature was measured here. On 2 February 1956, the weather station at Estany Gento recorded a temperature of −32°C. It is also possible that temperatures of around −50°C were reached at higher elevations.

Estany Gento is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers visiting the region. The surrounding area is rich in alpine flora and fauna and offers impressive panoramic views of the nearby mountains. The Estany Gento mountain refuge and the Vall Fosca cable car are also located here.

The lake can be reached from La Torre de Cabdella via a spectacular hiking route considered one of the most beautiful in the area.

Capdella

The small and picturesque village of Capdella is located at an altitude of 1,422 metres, at the head of Vall Fosca, and has only 31 registered residents. It occupies a privileged position between three rivers: the Flamisell, Filià and Riqüerna.

Among Capdella’s main attractions are the parish church of Sant Vicenç, which dates back to the 12th century, and Capdella Castle, a 13th-century medieval fortress that now lies in ruins but still preserves an impressive circular tower.

Capdella is a popular tourist destination thanks to its spectacular natural surroundings. Vall Fosca offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as canyoning, via ferratas, hiking, climbing and rafting.

Capdella is also known for its rich culinary traditions, including dishes such as trinxat, made with cabbage and potatoes, and escudella i carn d’olla, a traditional stew with meat and vegetables.

Capdella Hydroelectric Power Station

The Capdella Hydroelectric Power Station is located near the village. It was built in the 20th century and began operating in 1955.

The power station uses water from the Flamisell River to generate electricity. The Capdella dam, located around two kilometres north of the village, diverts part of the river’s flow into a channel that carries the water to the power station.

The Capdella Hydroelectric Power Station is an important source of renewable energy in Catalonia and has contributed significantly to the region’s economic development. It is also an example of how natural resources can be used sustainably and with respect for the environment.

Would you like to discover the coldest place in Spain? We offer guided hiking routes and snowshoeing excursions in Vall Fosca and throughout Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park.