Pic del Clot del Cavall

Pic del Clot del Cavall is a 2,586-metre summit above Arinsal in La Massana parish. It lies within the high mountain landscape of the Comapedrosa valleys, near the routes that climb from the village toward Percanela, Les Fonts and Pla de l’Estany. The name is sometimes shortened to Pic del Clot de Cavall. It should not be confused with the nearby Pic de Percanela, the saddle or route locality called Clot del Cavall, or the Serrat de la Burna, a ridge feature encountered on longer trails.

The summit is a useful mountain objective for hikers exploring the less crowded paths above Arinsal. AcampAND lists it at 2,586 metres and notes nearby refuges including Refugi de l’Angonella and Refugi de les Fonts. Long-distance paths such as the GRP and GR11 pass within the wider area, but not every marked trail climbs the summit. The peak is reached by leaving the main valley routes and following a more direct mountain line toward its crest. Map and elevation data should be checked to ensure that a route reaches the top rather than only the neighboring col.

One commonly described approach starts from Arinsal and follows the Camí de Percanela, then continues on yellow waymarks toward the Clot del Cavall area. A recorded hiking route follows the Percanela path to the col and then climbs to the summit. The route network includes old bordes, forest tracks and open slopes, so the scenery changes gradually from village edge to mountain terrain. The exact waymarking can vary by section; use a current map and look for the intended junction before leaving the main path.

Another route context comes from the Estanys Forcats long-distance circuit. Visit Andorra describes a steep climb over the Serrat de la Burna, leaving behind Pic del Clot de Cavall, as part of the approach toward the Forcats lakes and the Comapedrosa high ridge. This means the peak lies near an important transition in the broader route, but the long-distance circuit is not a short summit walk. Its distance and elevation gain are far greater than a simple outing from Arinsal. Visitors should choose a route that matches the summit, not assume that every trail passing the vicinity visits the top.

The climb is a sustained mountain walk rather than a developed tourist attraction. Lower sections can use marked trails, while the upper approach may be steep and less obvious, with rough ground and scree. Forest provides shade lower down, but higher slopes are exposed to sun and wind. The summit panorama looks over Arinsal and the neighboring valleys, with the Comapedrosa range rising nearby. The peak has no staffed facilities, shelter or reliable water source; refuges listed nearby are separate destinations and may be a considerable detour.

Pic del Clot del Cavall is often combined with Pic de Percanela in a circular outing. From Percanela, walkers continue north to a col and descend on the path of Clot del Cavall toward Bordes de Prats Nous, then rejoin the original route. This loop offers a satisfying ridge-and-valley day, but the direction matters: poor weather or fatigue may make an out-and-back safer. Do not treat the route as a casual walk solely because it starts near Arinsal. Check distance, vertical gain and exact trailhead, and allow time for a complete descent.

The surrounding area has a strong pastoral character. Percanela’s bordes and dry-stone walls recall seasonal farming, while the forested paths and high meadows remain important habitat for wildlife. Within the Comapedrosa natural park, hikers may encounter marmots, birds of prey and alpine plants. Keep to established routes, avoid disturbing grazing animals and do not collect plants or stones. Around springs and wetlands, step on durable surfaces to protect fragile vegetation.

Late spring, summer and early autumn are generally the most suitable seasons for hiking. Visit Andorra recommends high-altitude routes mainly from late June through September, allowing a longer season only if weather and ground conditions permit. Snow can remain on shaded slopes, and the upper terrain may be icy after overnight freezing. In winter, avalanche conditions and steep approaches require mountain experience and suitable equipment. Check local weather, snow information and access to Arinsal before leaving; road works or seasonal conditions can affect trailhead parking.

Carry enough water, food, sun protection, warm and waterproof layers, map and compass/GPS, and a headlamp. Mobile coverage cannot be guaranteed. There are no summit opening hours or admission fee because the peak is open natural terrain. Refuges and restaurants below operate independently, and their services and hours should be checked separately. Visitors who want a shorter walk can explore the marked Camí de Percanela or reach a lower viewpoint without leaving the forest route. Those continuing to Pic del Clot del Cavall should be prepared for a full high-country climb and should turn back if visibility or footing becomes uncertain.