The enchanted forest of Carlac
https://almadenieve.com/news/N3183F0x1400.jpgDuring the summer, the Aran Valley is the perfect destination to enjoy your holidays. Beyond winter sports, this area offers a wide range of activities where nature and adventure are the basis for exploring its enchanting places such as the Carlac forest. Discover this spectacular beech forest through its trails and stay in complete comfort in the Alma de Nieve apartments in Baqueira.
A place on the border
This route starts in the village of Bausen, the last one before crossing the border into France. Wander through the village and let your steps take you to the chapel of Sant Roc. It is one of the must-see spots in this area. If you want to make a stop, you can do so in Les. Discover its thermal baths and stroll along the Garona River.
The Carlac route
With medium difficulty, it covers six and a half kilometres and a total elevation gain of 350 metres. It is a circular route starting and ending in the village that runs through the forest up to the Alto de Pan. It takes between two and a half and three hours to complete, although with its scenery you will surely want to stop and enjoy the views more calmly.
The best time to do the route is spring, although it can be done all year round. In winter, however, you may encounter snow. If the children are experienced hikers, they can join you without any problem.
The route step by step
Starting from the chapel, you will see signs marking the route. After the first steps and passing the cemetery, you will come across one of the most mystical stories of this place, the grave of Teresa. It is said that two relatives fell in love and decided to marry, but the priest opposed the union and refused to bless it. When the woman died, she was denied burial in the cemetery, so her grave lies by the roadside outside the walls.
Climbing through terraced fields you will enjoy views of the valley and its scattered villages. In this first part of the route, most of the ascent is concentrated, but it is never too demanding. Passing through a beautiful hazelnut grove, you will reach an area of oaks before walking under ancient beech trees.
As you enter Carlac, you will once again notice the mystical shapes of its tree trunks. Their twisted forms are the result of time and nature, creating an almost ghostly atmosphere. Along this easy trail, you can discover the unique shapes of the trees.
The slope becomes steeper here and after a large bend you will reach a small clearing with stunning views over the dense forest. The path continues towards a stream before reaching the Alto de Pan, a perfect place for a quick snack.
At this point, the Carlac beech forest and its magical essence are left behind. Here the descent begins back to the village of Bausen. Passing through a forest of ash trees and several mountain shelters, you return to the starting point of the route.
The Carlac beech forest is one of the natural areas you cannot miss in the Aran Valley. If you love hiking, you will enjoy this and many other routes in the area while staying in the Alma de Nieve apartments.