Best lakes around Sant Julià De Vilatorta are primarily found within the broader Natural Space Guilleries-Savassona, which features significant water bodies. While Sant Julià de Vilatorta itself contains natural springs and a small pond at Parc de les Set Fonts, the region is characterized by rivers and the prominent Sau Reservoir. This area offers diverse landscapes, including forests and cliffs, providing various water-focused recreational opportunities. The natural features contribute to the appeal of the region for outdoor activities.
Last updated: November 3, 2026
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Sau Dam Tip for Bikepackers When riding near the Pantà de Sau (Sau Reservoir), don’t miss stopping at the Sau Dam viewpoint. It’s a spectacular spot to catch your breath and take in the sweeping views of the turquoise reservoir framed by steep cliffs and lush forests. 🌊 If water levels are low, you might even spot the famous submerged bell tower of the old village of Sant Romà de Sau poking out of the water — a haunting and iconic sight that adds a unique story to your ride. 🛑 Keep in mind the area around the dam can be a bit steep and technical on gravel roads, so take it easy if you’re loaded up. 💡 Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon light here is magical for photos and gives you cooler temperatures for climbing or descending.
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A great place even if the reason why this village reappears after 60 years is more than sad. Water shortage in Catalonia.
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Amazing views of the Del Ter ravine
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La Rovira beach is located in the Sau reservoir, where the vestiges of the villages that were flooded to create the reservoir still remain. From this beach there are fantastic views of the spectacular cliffs that surround the swamp.
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This Susqueda gravel road borders the Sau reservoir, being one of the most beautiful sections of the place. The track is wide and without any technical complications. Time to enjoy the incredible views.
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The Sau reservoir is a Spanish hydraulic infrastructure built on the Ter river, located in the municipality of Vilanova de Sau, at the foot of the Guilleries massif, in the Osona region, province of Barcelona, Catalonia. It is part of a system of three reservoirs, together with those of Susqueda and Pasteral, which joins the counties of Osona and La Selva. The reservoir, inaugurated in 1962, covered the town of San Román de Sau, the remains of which, especially the bell tower of the temple, are visible when the water level is low and, even in times of prolonged drought, the town is left to the discovered and it is possible to visit it. The church of the Sau swamp is registered as the oldest in the world that is preserved standing in the water. This is confirmed by a study promoted by the international entity for world record records Official World Record with the collaboration of a research group from the University of Barcelona in the year 2021.
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Route to enjoy nature
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The most notable historical feature is the Church of Sant Romà de Sau (Submerged Bell Tower). This ancient church, part of a village flooded to create the Sau Reservoir, becomes visible when water levels are low. It's recognized as the oldest standing church in the world that remains partially submerged.
The area around Sant Julià de Vilatorta offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, cycling, and running. For example, there are challenging gravel biking routes like the Viladrau loop, moderate cycling paths such as 'The 7 Springs – Ruta dels Molins Trail', and running trails like the 'Park of the Seven Fountains' loop. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for gravel biking, cycling, and running trails around Sant Julià de Vilatorta.
Yes, the Susqueda Reservoir gravel trail is noted as family-friendly, offering wide tracks and scenic views without technical complications. Additionally, the Parc de les Set Fonts in Sant Julià de Vilatorta is a well-equipped recreational area with picnic tables and a children's play area, perfect for families.
For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the View of the Cingles de Tavertet from Sau Reservoir. This viewpoint offers expansive vistas of the reservoir and the dramatic cliffs of Tavertet. You might also catch a glimpse of the submerged village of Sant Romà de Sau from here when water levels are low.
The region is characterized by diverse natural features. While Sant Julià de Vilatorta itself boasts natural springs and a small pond at Parc de les Set Fonts, the broader Natural Space Guilleries-Savassona features significant water bodies like the Sau Reservoir, rivers, and natural pools. The landscape includes forests, cliffs, and offers a transition zone between plains and mountains.
Yes, the Parc de les Set Fonts in Sant Julià de Vilatorta is designed to be accessible for people with reduced mobility, making it an inclusive recreational space for everyone to enjoy its natural springs and tranquil atmosphere.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. During drier periods, typically in late summer or autumn, the water levels of the Sau Reservoir may recede enough to reveal more of the submerged Church of Sant Romà de Sau, offering a unique historical sight.
Yes, the area around the Sau Dam itself provides spectacular viewpoints. Bikepackers and other visitors often stop here to take in the sweeping views of the turquoise reservoir framed by steep cliffs and lush forests. It's also a prime spot to look for the submerged bell tower when water levels are low.
While specific circular walks around the main reservoirs are extensive, the Parc de les Set Fonts serves as a starting point for several hiking routes, including a loop that explores the 'Route of the Mills'. For more detailed circular routes, you can explore the running trails guide, which includes loops like the 'Park of the Seven Fountains' and 'L'Omeda Air Raid Shelters – Route of the Mills'.
Visitors particularly appreciate the dramatic scenery of the Sau Reservoir, especially the unique sight of the submerged Church of Sant Romà de Sau. The panoramic views from spots like the Cingles de Tavertet viewpoint are also highly praised. The tranquil atmosphere of the Parc de les Set Fonts and the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking contribute to a rich visitor experience.
The Natural Space Guilleries-Savassona, which encompasses Sant Julià de Vilatorta, is known for its rivers and opportunities to find natural pools. These spots are ideal for cooling off and enjoying nature, though specific locations for wild swimming should be researched locally for safety and regulations.
The Natural Space Guilleries-Savassona, where the lakes are located, is a transition zone featuring both Mediterranean and Central European forests. This diversity contributes to the rich natural beauty and varied landscapes you'll encounter while exploring the area.


Still not found your perfect lake around Sant Julià De Vilatorta? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.