Far from the typical tourist routes, in the foothills of the Catalan Pyrenees, there are places that have preserved their pristine essence. In the Alt Urgell region (Alt Urgell), among green slopes and winding roads, lies a corner where the silence of the mountains blends harmoniously with the sound of flowing water. This spot, not marked in popular guidebooks, offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in nature.
This is les Basses del Codó — a system of natural pools in the municipality of Coll de Nargó, in the province of Lleida. Here, away from mass tourism, visitors can enjoy swimming in clear waters surrounded by wild nature. The pools were formed by the joining of the Salient and Valdàrquers rivers, which over thousands of years have carved natural baths in the limestone rocks.
The path to this natural oasis takes just 5-10 minutes, but caution is needed in some sections due to slippery stones. On a clear day, sunlight penetrates the water to the very bottom, creating a stunning play of light. In spring, when the rivers swell, small waterfalls bring special dynamism to the landscape. The water has a turquoise hue thanks to the mineral composition of the rocks. For those seeking solitude, it is best to arrive early in the morning, especially during the summer months when visitor numbers increase.
A trip to Coll de Nargó is not just an opportunity to swim. The municipality boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Its main attraction is the Romanesque church of Sant Climent (Sant Climent de Coll de Nargó), which is recognized as a national historical-artistic monument. The church’s unique bell tower combines Islamic-influenced elements at the base with Romanesque style at the top—a striking example of Lombard architecture from the late 10th to early 11th centuries.
Nearby, there are two interesting museums that explore the region’s history. The ‘Dinosfera’ Museum (Dinosfera) displays a collection of dinosaur eggs and fossils discovered in the area. The Museum of Rafters (Museu dels Raiers) is dedicated to the ancient craft of timber rafting on rivers. On the way to the pools, visitors can see old mills and dry-stone buildings—evidence of how locals historically used water resources. The small town of Bassella (Bassella), famous for its renowned motorcycle race, is also located nearby.
You can reach Basses del Codó from Lleida by car in less than two hours. The route runs along secondary roads that gently ascend into the heart of the Alt Urgell region. Visiting this place allows you to combine easy walks, a refreshing swim, and an introduction to the rich history of the Catalan Pyrenees—discovering a quiet beauty hidden from most tourists.
