Ibón de Plan (Basa de la Mora)

Highlights

  • • Emerald waters surrounded by alpine meadows and 3,000 m peaks
  • • 3.5 km trail with 334 m gain — suitable for families
  • • The most accessible and photographed ibón in the Pyrenees
  • • Chistau Valley: one of the most authentic Pyrenean valleys
  • • Changes colour with the seasons: green, turquoise, frozen
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Description

The Ibón de Plan, also known as Basa de la Mora, is a mountain lake at 1,914 metres in the Aragonese Pyrenees, in the municipality of Plan (Chistau Valley, Huesca). It is probably the most accessible and photographed ibón in the entire Pyrenees — and one of the most beautiful, with its emerald waters surrounded by alpine meadows and 3,000-metre peaks.

The most popular route starts from the Fuen de Baños car park (1,580 m) and climbs a well-marked 3.5 km trail with 334 m elevation gain. In normal conditions it takes 1h 15min to reach the lake. The route is suitable for families with children from 6-7 years old.

The ibón is of glacial origin and changes colour with light and season: emerald green in summer, turquoise in autumn, frozen in winter. The surrounding meadows form a natural amphitheatre perfect for a picnic with views. In June-July, snow patches may remain on the north shore.

The Chistau Valley (Plan, San Juan de Plan, Gistaín) is one of the most authentic valleys in the Pyrenees, with stone and slate architecture, mountain livestock farming and its own culture (Chistabín). The ibón can be combined with a visit to the valley.

Key Information

Visit Duration

3-4 hours (return trip with time at the lake)

Recommended Seasons

Summer, Autumn

Pricing

Free

Accessibility

Low

Kid-Friendly

Guide

Essential information for visiting Ibón de Plan (Basa de la Mora)

Location

How to get there

By carBy public transport
Practical Information
Pricing
Free
Visit Duration
3-4 hours (return trip with time at the lake)
Features & Services
  • Accessibility:Low
  • Kid-Friendly:Yes
Planning Information

Recommended Seasons

Summer · Autumn

Best Time to Visit

July-August for melted snow. September-October for autumn colours.

Visitor Tips

Arrive before 9:00 in summer (limited parking). Bring sun protection and a layer (the summit is windy). A picnic by the ibón is a must. Return the same way.

Things to do

Activities and experiences near Ibón de Plan (Basa de la Mora)

20

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers about Ibón de Plan (Basa de la Mora)

No. 3.5 km with 334 m elevation gain, on a well-marked trail. Suitable for children from 6-7. Takes 1h 15min to climb.
June to October. July-August are the safest months. June may have snow. Autumn colours are spectacular.
Technically yes, but the water is very cold (glacial lake at 1,914 m). Some brave souls swim in August.
At the Fuen de Baños car park (forest track from Plan). In summer it fills up early — arrive before 9:00.