Vall Fosca and the Estany Gento cable car
The Vall Fosca is the southern gateway to the Aigüestortes National Park, with a cable car that climbs from the Sallente reservoir to l'Estany Gento in just a few minutes. It's about 55 km from Cal Nenot — around an hour by car — and makes for a highly recommended full-day trip.
Distance from Cal Nenot
55 km from Cal Nenot
Duration
Full day (cable car + lakes route)
Difficulty
Easy by cable car; moderate on the lakes route
Price
Cable car is paid — check seasonal fares and times
Best season
Summer (the cable car only runs in season)
Kid-friendly
Yes
Dog-friendly
Yes
Parking
Parking next to the Sallente reservoir
The Sallente–Estany Gento cable car
In summer season, the cable car covers the steep climb between the Sallente reservoir and l'Estany Gento, at over 2,200 metres altitude, in just a few minutes. It's the fastest way into a high-mountain landscape without needing a long hike beforehand.
The lakes route from l'Estany Gento
From the cable car's upper station, a relatively manageable circular route sets off among glacial lakes, with the Aigüestortes National Park as a backdrop — the park's southern entrance, less crowded than the Espot or Boí access points.
The Capdella Hydroelectric Museum
The Vall Fosca has a strong hydroelectric tradition dating back to the early 20th century, and the Capdella Hydroelectric Museum tells that story with the power station itself as the setting — a good backup plan, especially if the weather isn't right for the cable car.
With kids
The cable car makes the high mountains accessible without any prior effort, making it a good option for children who can't yet manage a long climb; once at the top, it's worth choosing a short stretch of the lakes route depending on age.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to reach the Vall Fosca from Cal Nenot? +
Around an hour by car, about 55 km.
Does the cable car run all year? +
No, it only runs in summer season. Check dates and times before you go.
Can you enter Aigüestortes from the Vall Fosca? +
Yes, it's the southern entrance to the national park, and it's usually less crowded than the Espot or Boí access points.
Is it a good plan with kids? +
Yes, the cable car lets you reach the high mountains without a long climb beforehand, ideal for families with young children.
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