Ibón de Ip, in the Collarada foothills
The ibón de Ip is located at an altitude of 2,100 metres in the foothills of the Collarada peakvery close to Canfranc (between Canfranc village and Canfranc station). It is an excursion of about three hours of ascent, with quite steep sections It is therefore not recommended for hikers in poor physical condition or for hikers with small children.
The ibón, one of the largest in the Pyrenees, is surrounded by peaks, such as Collarada, has a dam on one side and a bridge that spans a long stretch over the water This is a very different view from that of other high mountain lakes, as access to the water is complicated as you have to go down on stones.
How to get there
From Jaca take the N-330 towards France. Once you have passed Canfranc village, continue north. Before arriving at Canfranc station you will see a stone bridge to your right, on the river Aragon. You can leave your car right there, next to the bridge there is an esplanade with space for several vehicles.
The route
Right there you will see the sign to the ibón. The walk, which takes about three hours, is an almost continuous ascent, runs through a thick pine forest in the first section and crosses the ravine several times. This slope of the Canfranc valley offers good views for almost the entire route. At the upper part of the path, where the route is indicated by stone milestones, the forest gives way to green meadows, now completely full of flowers.
We follow the upward path, in which it is not difficult for you to meet with some fridge like this one. Take the opportunity to rest and get your strength back.
We continued upwards until we began to see in the distance the buildings for the hydroelectric exploitation of the ibón. All that remains now is to cross a small watercourse and the ibón will emerge before your eyes. You can look out over the stone bridge to enjoy the views as if you were in the middle of the lake. And enjoy the views of Collaradathe 2,886-metre peak that dominates the Ip. circus.
The descent is made along the same path you have arrived, in about two hours. We hope you enjoy the excursion.
