RoutesPlannerFeaturesUpdates
App
Login or Signup
Get the App
Login or Signup
Routes
MTB trails
France
Occitania
Prades

Lac De Puyvalador

The best MTB trails around Lac De Puyvalador

4.3

(331)

2,269

riders

82

rides

Mountain bike trails around Lac De Puyvalador are set within the Capcir plateau in the Eastern Pyrenees, offering diverse landscapes for riding. The region features extensive pine forests and wide meadows, with the tranquil waters of Lac de Puyvalador as a central point. Trails often traverse these natural features, providing a mix of terrain from lakeside loops to routes exploring the broader Pyrenean environment. The area is characterized by its distinct Pyrenean setting, including the Galbe River and its waterfall,…

Last updated: November 4, 2026

5.0

(1)

10

riders

#1.

Puyvalador – Puyvalador Dam loop from Réal

7.04km

00:36

80m

80m

Easy mountain bike ride.

Navigate with deviceSend to Phone
Save
Easy
Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Sign up for free

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.

Moderate

4.5

(11)

58

riders

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 78 more rides around Lac De Puyvalador.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Lac De Puyvalador

Road Cycling Routes around Lac De Puyvalador

Hiking around Lac De Puyvalador

Gravel biking around Lac De Puyvalador

Cycling around Lac De Puyvalador

Running Trails around Lac De Puyvalador

Mountain Hikes around Lac De Puyvalador

Tips from the Community

Luc Gesell
May 16, 2026, Vue sur les Pyrénées catalanes

From here you can enjoy a wide panorama of the Catalan Pyrenees. To the left, towards the Carcanet biological reserve. To the right and straight ahead, towards the summits with the pic de Madrès, the highest mountain in the area.

Translated by Google•

1

0

The Puyvalador dam is 160 meters long and 39 meters high. This concrete structure is used to regulate the waters of the Aude river to produce electricity. From the dam, the view is exceptional.

Translated by Google•

0

0

High mountain town known for the ski resort in its vicinity. It is a town with various services in case water needs to be replenished.

Translated by Google•

0

0

Javi Jaavii
January 13, 2024, Refuge d'Oller

The Oller refuge (not guarded) is located halfway up the Pic de Madrès from Odeillo. From this point, you will have privileged views over places such as Puyvalador and its lake, the old station and the Pic de Ginèvre area, the Llissa Cremada, etc. As for the shelter, it is not very big but it is very pleasant and well equipped. It has bunk beds for four people, a stove and firewood, some books, maps...

Translated by Google•

0

0

Javi Jaavii
January 13, 2024, Refuge d'Oller

The Oller refuge (not guarded) is located halfway up the Pic de Madrès from Odeillo. From this point, you will have privileged views over places such as Puyvalador and its lake, the old station and the Pic de Ginèvre area, the Llissa Cremada, etc. As for the shelter, it is not very big but it is very pleasant and well equipped. It has bunk beds for four people, a stove and firewood, some books, maps...

Translated by Google•

1

0

On one side, very close to the path, you can enjoy this beautiful waterfall created by the Galbe River as it descends towards Esposouille.

1

0

Nice town center with a beautiful church. More information: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formigu%C3%A8res?wprov=sfla1

Translated by Google•

3

2

nice outing to do in the Capcir

Translated by Google•

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Lac De Puyvalador?

There are over 80 mountain bike trails around Lac De Puyvalador, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 22 easy routes, 31 moderate options, and 27 more challenging trails for experienced riders.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails in Lac De Puyvalador?

The trails around Lac De Puyvalador offer diverse terrain. You'll encounter tranquil lakeside paths, extensive pine forests, and open meadows across the Capcir plateau. Some routes feature the Galbe River and its waterfall, providing varied backdrops. Expect a mix of relatively flat sections and routes with significant elevation gain, especially on more challenging trails.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike routes around Lac De Puyvalador?

Yes, the region offers several easy, family-friendly options. A notable choice is the "Tour du Lac de Puyvalador" (VTT FFC N°12), which is an enjoyable ride on tranquil, relatively flat paths. The Puyvalador Dam loop from Réal is another easy route, perfect for a relaxed outing with views of the lake.

What are some scenic highlights or natural features to look out for while mountain biking?

Mountain biking around Lac De Puyvalador offers numerous scenic highlights. You can enjoy the tranquil waters of the 90-hectare artificial lake, the surrounding pine forests, and the open landscapes of the Capcir plateau. Keep an eye out for the picturesque Galbe River and its waterfall, as well as the humid prairies along the lake's banks, which are a haven for birdwatching. Higher trails also provide panoramic viewpoints over the mountainous Catalan Pyrenees.

Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the trails?

Yes, the region has historical and geological interest. You might encounter ancient Roman bridges, such as the "Ponts romains du Galbe" and the Pont des Molines. Remnants of Puyvalador Castle can also be found, and the Romanesque church of Saint-Romain de Réal offers panoramic views. These add a touch of historical intrigue to your rides.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Lac De Puyvalador?

The mountain bike trails in Lac De Puyvalador are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from nearly 300 reviews. Over 2000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the tranquil lake shores, extensive pine forests, and the diverse options for different ability levels.

Are there any routes that feature waterfalls?

Yes, the Cascade du Galbe – Cascade sur le Galbe loop from Réal is an easy 18.7 km trail that prominently features the beautiful Cascade du Galbe, offering scenic views along the way.

Are there any challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers difficult routes with significant elevation gain. An example is the On the road to Camporells – Serra da Mauri (2,412 m) loop from Puyvalador, which covers over 31 km and includes more than 1000 meters of ascent.

Can I find circular mountain bike routes around Lac De Puyvalador?

Yes, many of the routes around Lac De Puyvalador are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Puyvalador Dam loop from Réal and the Puyvalador Dam loop from Puyvalador, both offering convenient circular options around the lake.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Lac De Puyvalador?

The landscapes around Lac De Puyvalador transform with the seasons, offering different experiences. While specific recommendations depend on personal preference, the area is generally suitable for mountain biking from spring through autumn. Autumn brings beautiful colors, while spring offers fresh greenery. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Are there any moderate difficulty trails for intermediate mountain bikers?

Yes, there are 31 moderate mountain bike trails available. A good option for intermediate riders is the Refuge de l'Estanyols – Étang des Estanyols loop from Réal, which covers nearly 19 km with over 440 meters of elevation gain, offering a balanced challenge.

Most popular routes around Lac De Puyvalador

Road Cycling Routes around Lac De Puyvalador

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now
Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.

Pyrénées CatalanesTargassonneUrFont-Romeu-Odeillo-ViaCaudiès-De-ConflentRailleuBourg-MadameMatemaleLac De MatemaleEstany De La PradellaBouleternèreIlle-Sur-TêtSaint-Michel-De-LlotesLes AnglesSaillagouseBolquèreTaurinyaEstavarForêt de la MatteMont-LouisLa CabanasseClara-VillerachSaint-Pierre-Dels-ForcatsCorneilla-De-ConflentLac Des BouillousesLos MasosRia-SirachValcebollèreNahujaOsséjaPalau-De-CerdagneCampômeAngoustrine-Villeneuve-Des-EscaldesValmanyaFontpédrouseCodaletSahorreSansaFillolsMolitg-Les-BainsPortaCatllarÉgatEusPuyvaladorOlettePlanèsOreillaEyneFuillaPyFontrabiouseRéserve naturelle de la Vallée d’EynePorté-PuymorensSerdinyaLloJochEnveitgLa LlagonneMantetRéserve naturelle de MantetMarquixanesNohèdesTrévillachSouanyasEscaroLatour-De-CarolRéserve naturelle de JujolsSautoVernet-Les-BainsRéserve naturelle de NohèdesJujolsCanaveillesUrbanyaBaillestavyDorresMossetRigardaEstoherLac De VinçaFormiguèresRéalAyguatébia-TalauCasteilTarerachArboussolsThuès-Entre-VallsVinçaRodèsSainte-LéocadieNyerConatEspira-De-ConflentRabouilletTrillaLe VivierGlorianesBoule-D'AmontMontalba-Le-ChâteauPézilla-De-ConflentPrats-De-SourniaVillefranche-De-ConflentSourniaCasefabreCampoussyFinestretÉtang De LlatFellunsErrPrunet-Et-BelpuigÉtang De Lanos

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Réal

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free
Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy