Boat Service Resumes After Three-Year Hiatus

Recreational boating has returned to Lake Puigcerdà this summer after a three-year absence, with local firm Cercle d'Aventura managing the service from Monday to Sunday, 11am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm.

Adults pay €5 for a 30-minute rental, with children under six charged €2. The service is expected to continue at least until mid-September, drawing visitors from across Catalonia and southern France.

Winter Rides Under Consideration

The town council aims to extend boat access beyond summer for the first time, preparing a new tender that could allow year-round navigation, weather permitting.

According to local reporting, the initiative forms part of a broader effort to boost tourism and activate the lake as a four-season destination. The council cites the lake’s role as a key attraction for residents and tourists alike, especially from the Barcelona metropolitan area.

“The lake is the emblem of Puigcerdà,” said Deputy Mayor Mercè Carbó, highlighting its cultural and economic value.

Carbó confirmed the council plans to jointly tender the boat service and the nearby Schierbeck Park bar, currently due for renewal in September. A unified operator could manage both amenities, improving coordination and visitor experience.

Future Plans Include Fleet Expansion

  • Potential addition of up to ten new boats
  • Introduction of a motorised support vessel
  • Expanded facilities including storage and toilets at the bar area

The lake, originally constructed in the 13th century as a water reservoir, evolved into a leisure space by the late 19th century. Its surroundings were significantly shaped by the legacy of Danish philanthropist Georges Schierbeck.

Visitor Experience and Seasonal Demand

Óscar Nicolau of Cercle d'Aventura noted that French visitors predominate in the mornings, while locals from areas like Sant Cugat del Vallès arrive later in the day.

Local resident Miquel Molina, visiting with his daughter Cloe from Premià de Mar, described the outing as “a good family moment” on a sunny afternoon.

While the council has revived boating successfully, efforts to reintroduce donkey rides around the lake remain more complex and without a confirmed timeline.

Primary sources: seu.santcugat.cat, premsa.santcugat.cat. Reported by regio7.cat, Gerió Digital, Regió 7.