Spain is a country celebrated for its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and stunning coastlines. Yet, beyond the well-trodden paths of beaches and historic cities, lies a remarkable network of inland water bodies, offering serene beauty and vital ecological importance often overlooked by visitors.
This comprehensive guide brings into focus these often-hidden gems. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of 58 Lakes in Spain, showcasing their variety from the significant Embalse de Alange to the enchanting Lagunas de Ruidera. For each entry, we’ve organized key data points, including its Surface Area (km²), Province/Region, and a notable Key Feature, to help you explore Spain’s aquatic heartland.
What’s the difference between a lake and an embalse in Spain?
In Spain, a “lago” generally refers to a naturally occurring body of freshwater, often found in mountainous or volcanic regions. An “embalse,” however, is a man-made reservoir created by damming a river. These reservoirs are primarily constructed for purposes such as irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and urban water supply, and they account for many of the country’s largest inland water bodies.
What is the largest lake in Spain?
When considering the largest inland body of water by surface area, particularly at full capacity, the Embalse de La Serena in Extremadura often holds this distinction. As an embalse, it exemplifies Spain’s extensive network of reservoirs, which are crucial for the country’s water management and ecological balance.
Lakes in Spain
| Lake Name | Surface Area (km²) | Province/Region | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embalse de la Serena | 321 | Badajoz | Europe’s largest reservoir, a vast inland sea great for fishing. |
| Embalse de Almendra | 265 | Salamanca/Zamora | Known as the “Sea of Castile” for its immense size and impressive dam. |
| Embalse de Alcántara | 104 | Cáceres | One of Spain’s largest reservoirs by volume, located on the Tagus River. |
| Embalse de Mequinenza | 110 | Zaragoza/Huesca | Called the “Sea of Aragon,” a premier destination for fishing and water sports. |
| Embalse de Buendía | 81.93 | Cuenca/Guadalajara | Paired with Entrepeñas, it forms the “Sea of Castile,” with unique landscapes. |
| Embalse de Valdecañas | 73 | Cáceres | Famous for the partially submerged Roman ruins of Augustobriga. |
| Embalse de Cijara | 65.65 | Badajoz/Cáceres | Located within a national reserve, offering stunning wildlife viewing opportunities. |
| Embalse del Ebro | 62.5 | Cantabria/Burgos | Large, scenic reservoir in northern Spain, a vital water reserve. |
| Embalse de Ricobayo | 58.55 | Zamora | Known for its dramatic, fjord-like landscapes when water levels are low. |
| Embalse de Alange | 51.4 | Badajoz | Noted for its nearby Roman thermal baths, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
| Embalse de Orellana | 50.84 | Badajoz | First Spanish inland water body awarded a Blue Flag for its freshwater beach. |
| Embalse de El Tranco | 49.8 | Jaén | The heart of Cazorla Natural Park, surrounded by extensive pine forests. |
| Embalse de Gabriel y Galán | 46.8 | Cáceres | Named after a famous poet, located in a scenic, forested area. |
| Embalse del Cenajo | 46.8 | Albacete/Murcia | A large reservoir on the Segura river, vital for regional irrigation. |
| Embalse de Giribaile | 47.3 | Jaén | Second largest reservoir in Andalusia, key for local olive grove irrigation. |
| Embalse de García de Sola | 35.7 | Badajoz | A popular hotspot for fishing, especially for black bass and pike. |
| Embalse de Canelles | 33.8 | Huesca/Lleida | Deep canyon reservoir known for its towering cliffs and kayaking routes. |
| Embalse de Iznájar | 32 | Córdoba | Known as the “Lake of Andalusia,” offering beaches and water activities. |
| Embalse de Entrepeñas | 32.1 | Guadalajara | Part of the vast “Sea of Castile” water system on the Tagus river. |
| Embalse de Alarcón | 30.9 | Cuenca | Scenic reservoir on the Júcar River, overlooked by a medieval castle. |
| L’Albufera de Valencia | 23.94 | Valencia | Important freshwater lagoon and bird reserve, famous for its rice paddies and boat trips. |
| Embalse de Riaño | 21.86 | León | Controversial reservoir known for its stunning mountain setting and submerged villages. |
| Embalse de El Negratín | 21.7 | Granada | Features a unique badlands landscape and striking turquoise waters. |
| Embalse de Barrios de Luna | 21.7 | León | Known for its impressive dam and the visible medieval bridge when water is low. |
| Embalse de Yesa | 20.98 | Zaragoza/Navarre | Known as the “Sea of the Pyrenees,” a popular spot for sailing and windsurfing. |
| Embalse de La Sotonera | 19 | Huesca | Important bird area and key for irrigation in the Hoya de Huesca region. |
| Embalse de Belesar | 19.1 | Lugo | Large reservoir on the Miño river, known for its submerged villages and vineyards. |
| Embalse de Santa Teresa | 16.5 | Salamanca | Major reservoir on the Tormes river, popular for swimming and camping. |
| Embalse de Mediano | 17.14 | Huesca | Famous for the 16th-century church tower that emerges from the water. |
| Laguna de Gallocanta | 14.4 | Zaragoza/Teruel | One of Western Europe’s most important saline lakes for migratory cranes. |
| Laguna Salada de Torrevieja | 14 | Alicante | Famous for its spectacular pink-colored water due to microalgae and salt production. |
| Embalse de Ullibarri-Gamboa | 14.6 | Álava | Main reservoir for Vitoria-Gasteiz, with recreational beaches and wetlands. |
| Laguna de Fuente de Piedra | 13.64 | Málaga | Home to the largest colony of Greater Flamingos on the Iberian Peninsula. |
| Embalse de La Pedrera | 13.75 | Alicante | Features distinctive turquoise blue water due to the underlying clay bed. |
| Embalse de El Grado | 12.73 | Huesca | Scenic reservoir near the medieval town of Aínsa in the Pyrenees. |
| Embalse de Bornos | 12.7 | Cádiz | A designated Natural Beauty Spot, renowned for birdwatching and fishing. |
| Embalse de As Portas | 11.8 | Ourense | One of the largest reservoirs in Galicia, set in a rugged, mountainous landscape. |
| Embalse de El Atazar | 10.7 | Madrid | Largest reservoir serving Madrid, with stunning views and popular sailing clubs. |
| Embalse de Santillana | 10.5 | Madrid | At the foot of La Pedriza, overlooked by the majestic Mendoza Castle. |
| Embalse de Azután | 10 | Toledo | Important Bird Area (IBA) on the Tagus river, excellent for birdwatching. |
| Embalse de Santa Anna | 8.6 | Huesca/Lleida | Large reservoir on the Noguera Ribagorzana, used for power and irrigation. |
| Embalse de Castrelo de Miño | 8.6 | Ourense | Features a nautical club and an international rowing course on the Miño river. |
| Embalse de Valmayor | 7.55 | Madrid | Second largest reservoir in the Community of Madrid, great for sailing. |
| Laguna Salada de la Mata | 7 | Alicante | Green-hued natural park and salt lake adjacent to Torrevieja’s pink lagoon. |
| Embalse de la Viñuela | 5.65 | Málaga | The largest reservoir in the province of Málaga, a popular picnic destination. |
| Embalse de San Juan | 5.5 | Madrid | Known as “Madrid’s Beach,” the only one allowing motorized water sports. |
| Embalse de Bolarque | 5.2 | Cuenca/Guadalajara | Located at the scenic confluence of the Tagus and Guadiela rivers. |
| Embalse de La Bolera | 5.4 | Jaén | Scenic reservoir in the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park. |
| Lagunas de Ruidera | 3.77 | Ciudad Real/Albacete | A system of 15 interconnected karstic lagoons that form stunning waterfalls. |
| Lago de Sanabria | 3.47 | Zamora | The largest natural glacial lake in the Iberian Peninsula. |
| Laguna de Pitillas | 2.16 | Navarre | A natural wetland of international importance for bird migration and observation. |
| Lago de Carucedo | 1.3 | León | Formed by ancient Roman gold mining operations at nearby Las Médulas. |
| Estany de Banyoles | 1.07 | Girona | Largest natural lake in Catalonia, of tectonic and karstic origin, hosted Olympic rowing. |
| Embalse de Proserpina | 0.72 | Badajoz | A well-preserved Roman-era dam and reservoir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
| Laguna Negra de Urbión | 0.04 | Soria | A dark, mysterious glacial lake of immense beauty, surrounded by legends. |
| Lagos de Covadonga | 0.24 | Asturias | Iconic set of two glacial lakes (Enol, Ercina) in Picos de Europa National Park. |
| Lago de San Mauricio | 0.2 | Lleida | Iconic high-mountain glacial lake in Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park. |
| Laguna Grande de Peñalara | 0.06 | Madrid | High-altitude glacial lagoon of exceptional ecological value in Sierra de Guadarrama. |
Images and Descriptions
Embalse de la Serena
Embalse de la Serena is a vast reservoir located in Extremadura. It is one of the largest artificial lakes in Spain and Europe. This water body is crucial for regional irrigation and power generation. Its extensive waters also support fishing and various water sports.
Embalse de Almendra
Embalse de Almendra is a significant reservoir found between Zamora and Salamanca. It forms part of the Duero River’s hydroelectric system. The dam creates a large body of water within a deep canyon. It contributes greatly to Spain’s energy supply.
Embalse de Alcántara
Embalse de Alcántara is a major reservoir situated in Extremadura. It holds waters from the Tagus River. This large lake serves hydroelectric power generation. Its creation also formed new habitats for local wildlife and offers scenic views.
Embalse de Mequinenza
Embalse de Mequinenza is a large reservoir on the Ebro River in Aragon. It is known as the ‘Sea of Aragon’ due to its vast size. This lake is important for hydroelectric power and attracts fishing enthusiasts, especially for carp and catfish.
Embalse de Buendía
Embalse de Buendía is a notable reservoir located in Castilla-La Mancha. It is a key component of the Tagus-Segura water transfer system. This lake is popular for water activities like sailing and swimming. It also offers recreational areas for visitors.
Embalse de Valdecañas
Embalse de Valdecañas is a significant reservoir also in Castilla-La Mancha. It is part of the Tagus River basin. The lake supports hydroelectric power production. Its shores provide recreational spaces and areas for fishing.
Embalse de Cijara
Embalse de Cijara is a large reservoir in Extremadura. It retains waters from the Guadiana River. The area around this lake is a protected natural reserve. It is famous for fishing, particularly for black bass, and offers beautiful landscapes.
Embalse del Ebro
Embalse del Ebro is a major reservoir in Cantabria and Castilla y León. It is one of the largest in northern Spain. This lake regulates the Ebro River’s flow and generates hydroelectric power. It is a popular spot for windsurfing and other water sports.
Embalse de Ricobayo
Embalse de Ricobayo is a prominent reservoir in Zamora, Castilla y León. It collects waters from the Esla River. This lake is vital for hydroelectric energy production. Its deep waters and natural surroundings make it a scenic location.
Embalse de Alange
Embalse de Alange is a reservoir found in Extremadura. It holds waters from the Matachel River. This lake supplies water for irrigation and local communities. The nearby Roman baths add historical interest to the area around the lake.
Embalse de Orellana
Embalse de Orellana is a large reservoir in Extremadura, on the Guadiana River. It holds the distinction of being Spain’s first inland beach with a Blue Flag award. This lake is a major site for water sports, swimming, and birdwatching.
Embalse de El Tranco
Embalse de El Tranco is a beautiful reservoir located within the Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park in Andalusia. It is a significant water body in a protected natural setting. The lake offers stunning views and opportunities for boat tours and kayaking.
Embalse de Gabriel y Galán
Embalse de Gabriel y Galán is a substantial reservoir in Extremadura. It impounds the Alagón River. This lake is important for both water supply and hydroelectric power. It is also a popular destination for fishing and recreational activities.
Embalse del Cenajo
Embalse del Cenajo is a large reservoir situated in Murcia and Albacete. It gathers water from the Segura River. This lake plays a critical role in supplying water to the arid regions of southeastern Spain. Its unique landscape attracts visitors.
Embalse de Giribaile
Embalse de Giribaile is a reservoir located in Andalusia, within the Guadalquivir River basin. It is an important source of water for irrigation in the region. The lake offers opportunities for fishing and enjoys a quiet natural setting.
Embalse de García de Sola
Embalse de García de Sola is a reservoir in Extremadura, part of the Guadiana River system. It supports local agriculture through irrigation. This lake is also known for its fishing opportunities, attracting anglers to its waters.
Embalse de Canelles
Embalse de Canelles is a significant reservoir between Aragon and Catalonia, on the Noguera Ribagorzana River. It is the largest reservoir in the Pyrenees. This lake creates a dramatic landscape with steep canyons and clear waters, popular for kayaking.
Embalse de Iznájar
Embalse de Iznájar is the largest reservoir in Andalusia, situated in Córdoba. It is often called the ‘Lake of Andalusia’. This extensive lake is a major recreational hub, offering beaches, water sports, and beautiful surroundings.
Embalse de Entrepeñas
Embalse de Entrepeñas is a key reservoir in Castilla-La Mancha. It is part of the Tagus-Segura water transfer system. This lake is crucial for water supply to multiple regions. It also provides spaces for outdoor leisure activities.
Embalse de Alarcón
Embalse de Alarcón is a large reservoir in Castilla-La Mancha. It also forms a vital part of the Tagus-Segura water transfer system. This lake is important for water storage and offers opportunities for fishing and boating.
L’Albufera de Valencia
L’Albufera de Valencia is a unique freshwater lagoon located near Valencia. It is a protected natural park known for its rich birdlife. Vast rice fields surround the lagoon. This area is important for both ecology and local agriculture.
Embalse de Riaño
Embalse de Riaño is a scenic reservoir in León, Castilla y León. It is nestled amidst the Picos de Europa mountains. This lake offers stunning alpine views, often called the ‘Swiss Alps of León’. It is popular for boat trips and outdoor activities.
Embalse de El Negratín
Embalse de El Negratín is a large reservoir in Andalusia, formed by the Guardal River. It is notable for its unique badlands landscape surrounding its shores. This lake is a recreational spot, even featuring a designated ‘inland beach’.
Embalse de Barrios de Luna
Embalse de Barrios de Luna is a striking reservoir in León, Castilla y León. It is known for its impressive dam and the submerged village underneath its waters. This lake offers beautiful mountain views and opportunities for fishing.
Embalse de Yesa
Embalse de Yesa is a prominent reservoir in Aragon and Navarre. It impounds the Aragón River. This lake is significant for irrigation and water supply. It is also a popular spot for windsurfing and other aquatic sports.
Embalse de La Sotonera
Embalse de La Sotonera is a reservoir located in Aragon. It collects waters from the Sotón River. This lake is primarily used for irrigation. Its calm waters and surrounding nature make it a pleasant place for leisurely activities.
Embalse de Belesar
Embalse de Belesar is a large reservoir in Galicia, on the Miño River. It is known for its submerged church tower, which reappears during low water levels. This lake is an important source of hydroelectric power for the region.
Embalse de Santa Teresa
Embalse de Santa Teresa is a substantial reservoir in Salamanca, Castilla y León. It is fed by the Tormes River. This lake is crucial for water regulation and supply to agricultural areas. It also offers space for fishing and recreation.
Embalse de Mediano
Embalse de Mediano is a reservoir in Aragon, within the Pyrenees foothills. It holds waters from the Cinca River. The lake is known for the partially submerged tower of its old church. It is a scenic spot for kayaking and photography.
Laguna de Gallocanta
Laguna de Gallocanta is a large saline lagoon in Aragon. It is a vital wetland for migrating birds, especially cranes. This natural lake is a protected reserve due to its ecological importance. It is a key site for birdwatching in Spain.
Laguna Salada de Torrevieja
Laguna Salada de Torrevieja is a famous pink salt lagoon in Valencia. Its distinct color comes from micro-algae and bacteria. This natural lake is an important source for salt production. It is also part of a protected natural park.
Embalse de Ullibarri-Gamboa
Embalse de Ullibarri-Gamboa is a major reservoir in the Basque Country. It is the largest reservoir in the region. This lake supplies drinking water to Vitoria-Gasteiz and Bilbao. It features recreational areas and a popular beach for swimming.
Laguna de Fuente de Piedra
Laguna de Fuente de Piedra is a large saline lagoon in Andalusia. It is the largest breeding colony of greater flamingos in the Iberian Peninsula. This natural lake is a highly protected area for its unique birdlife and ecological value.
Embalse de La Pedrera
Embalse de La Pedrera is a reservoir located in Valencia. It is known for its beautiful turquoise waters. This lake is a scenic spot that offers recreational opportunities. It plays a role in water supply for the surrounding areas.
Embalse de El Grado
Embalse de El Grado is a reservoir in Aragon, on the Cinca River. It is nestled in a pre-Pyrenean landscape. This lake is important for irrigation and hydroelectric power. It also provides a tranquil setting for fishing and water activities.
Embalse de Bornos
Embalse de Bornos is a reservoir in Andalusia, within the Guadalete River basin. It is a designated Natural Site due to its ecological value. This lake supports local wildlife and offers opportunities for birdwatching and fishing.
Embalse de As Portas
Embalse de As Portas is a reservoir in Galicia, on the Bibei River. It is known for its impressive hydroelectric dam. This lake is surrounded by mountainous terrain. It provides vital power generation for the region.
Embalse de El Atazar
Embalse de El Atazar is the largest reservoir in the Community of Madrid. It is the main source of drinking water for the capital. This lake is also a popular spot for sailing and other water sports, offering scenic views.
Embalse de Santillana
Embalse de Santillana is a reservoir in the Community of Madrid, also known as Manzanares el Real reservoir. It lies within the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. This lake is crucial for water supply and offers beautiful natural scenery.
Embalse de Azután
Embalse de Azután is a reservoir in Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha. It is part of the Tagus River basin. This lake is important for water regulation and local irrigation. It provides a peaceful setting for fishing and enjoying nature.
Embalse de Santa Anna
Embalse de Santa Anna is a reservoir located between Aragon and Catalonia, on the Noguera Ribagorzana River. It is a significant water body for power generation and irrigation. This lake also attracts visitors for its recreational opportunities.
Embalse de Castrelo de Miño
Embalse de Castrelo de Miño is a reservoir in Galicia, on the Miño River. It is a popular destination for rowing and other water sports. This lake also hosts international competitions. It is surrounded by vineyards and offers scenic beauty.
Embalse de Valmayor
Embalse de Valmayor is a large reservoir in the Community of Madrid. It is an important source of drinking water for the metropolitan area. This lake is surrounded by pine forests. It offers recreational activities like sailing.
Laguna Salada de la Mata
Laguna Salada de la Mata is a green salt lagoon in Valencia. It forms part of a protected natural park along with the pink Torrevieja lagoon. This natural lake is important for its unique ecosystem and birdlife. It contributes to salt production.
Embalse de la Viñuela
Embalse de la Viñuela is the largest reservoir in Málaga, Andalusia. It is a key source of water for the Costa del Sol. This lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery. It provides recreational activities and views of the Sierras.
Embalse de San Juan
Embalse de San Juan is a reservoir in the Community of Madrid. It is unique for being the only reservoir in the region where swimming is permitted. This lake is a very popular summer destination for beaches and water sports.
Embalse de Bolarque
Embalse de Bolarque is a reservoir in Castilla-La Mancha. It connects the Tagus and Segura rivers for the water transfer system. This lake is important for energy and water supply. It provides a calm environment for visitors.
Embalse de La Bolera
Embalse de La Bolera is a reservoir situated within the Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park in Andalusia. It is formed by the Guadalentín River. This lake offers stunning natural surroundings. It is a peaceful spot for fishing and kayaking.
Lagunas de Ruidera
Lagunas de Ruidera is a natural park in Castilla-La Mancha featuring a chain of fifteen natural lakes. These lakes are connected by waterfalls and subterranean flows. This area is famous for its exceptional beauty and diverse aquatic ecosystems.
Lago de Sanabria
Lago de Sanabria is the largest natural lake in Spain of glacial origin. It is located in Zamora, Castilla y León. This lake is a protected natural park. It is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and hiking around its shores.
Laguna de Pitillas
Laguna de Pitillas is a natural lagoon in Navarre. It is a protected wetland of great ecological value. This lake is a significant resting and nesting place for numerous bird species. It is a key site for birdwatching in northern Spain.
Lago de Carucedo
Lago de Carucedo is a small natural lake in León, Castilla y León. It is closely linked to the Roman gold mines of Las Médulas, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This lake was formed by the Roman mining activities, offering historical interest.
Estany de Banyoles
Estany de Banyoles is the largest natural lake in Catalonia. It is known for its unique underwater ecosystems and rich biodiversity. This lake is a popular spot for rowing and kayaking. It hosted rowing events during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
Embalse de Proserpina
Embalse de Proserpina is an ancient Roman reservoir near Mérida, Extremadura. It is one of the oldest dams in Spain still in use. This lake is a historical marvel and provides water for local agriculture. It offers cultural significance.
Laguna Negra de Urbión
Laguna Negra de Urbión is a glacial lagoon in Soria, Castilla y León, nestled in the Sierra de Urbión. It is famous for its deep, dark waters and legends. This natural lake is a stunning sight, surrounded by pine forests and cliffs.
Lagos de Covadonga
Lagos de Covadonga refers to two beautiful glacial lakes, Enol and Ercina, in Asturias. They are located within the Picos de Europa National Park. These natural lakes are iconic for their stunning mountain scenery and historical significance.
Lago de San Mauricio
Lago de San Mauricio is a picturesque glacial lake in Catalonia, within the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park. It is one of the most iconic lakes in the Pyrenees. This natural lake is a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.
Laguna Grande de Peñalara
Laguna Grande de Peñalara is a glacial lagoon in the Community of Madrid, within the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. It is the largest natural lake in the region. This high-altitude lake is a significant ecological site and popular for mountain hiking.
