Truchillas Lake

The Truchillas Lake (Llagu Truitiellas in Cabreirés dialect) is a beautiful protected natural space located in the municipality of Truchas, in the province of León, Castile and León, Spain. This glacial lake is located in the lower part of the Eria valley, presided over by the majestic Vizcodillo peak, which reaches 2,122 meters above sea level, being the highest peak in the Sierra de la Cabrera.

Geomorphology and Glacial Origin

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Truchillas Lake, like the nearby La Baña Lake, was formed due to the intense glacial erosion that shaped the mountains of slates and quartzites of the region during the Quaternary. This process left a series of cirques and U-shaped valleys, creating a landscape of great geological beauty. The lake is located in a glacial cirque surrounded by an amphitheater of mountains, with an area of 0.04 km² and a shallow depth. Its waters come from the snowfields of the nearby peaks and the La Fuente de la Fermosina stream.

Vegetation

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The vegetation surrounding the lake is a testament to the rich biodiversity of the Sierra de la Cabrera. Mixed groves of birch, yew, holly and rowan can be found. In addition, on the slopes of the lake, a dense thicket of heather, broom and creeping juniper can be observed. The shores of the lake are adorned with gentian plants, ferns and blueberries, which add a touch of color to the landscape, especially in autumn.

Fauna

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Truchillas Lake is also a refuge for a rich fauna. Here, the Iberian wolf, the largest European predator, coexists with the Pyrenean desman, one of the smallest and rarest mammals in Europe. In its clean waters, the brown trout is the predominant fish species. In addition, the area is home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, such as the mountain lizard, the grass snake and the marbled newt. Raptors are also common, including species such as the golden eagle and the common buzzard.

Landscape and Access

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The landscape of Truchillas Lake is characteristic of the northern slope of the Sierra de La Cabrera, with deep valleys nestled between ridges. Access to the lake is a continuous ascent, ideal for hiking enthusiasts. The route is well marked and is especially recommended in autumn and spring, when the vegetation and climate are more pleasant.

Natural Values and Protection

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This natural space is a Natural Monument due to its irreplaceable geological and biological value. However, its fragility to mining exploitation underlines the importance of its protection. The quartzite, which prevails in the area, has partly limited these activities, preserving the environment.

Truchillas Lake is an ideal destination for nature and geology lovers, offering spectacular views and rich biodiversity. For those looking for a more challenging hiking experience, it is possible to continue the ascent to the Vizcodillo peak or descend to the Malicioso lagoon, another natural wonder of the region.

Visiting Truchillas Lake is an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy one of the most impressive landscapes near Sanabria.