The Sau Reservoir is a reservoir and beauty spot in the Guilleries-Savassona Natural Area in the Catalonia region. The nearest village is Vilanova de Sau.
Explore the Sau Reservoir
Spain This Way review: The Sau Reservoir is a beautiful spot with plenty of water based activities possible and some lovely walks.
The Sau Reservoir was created in 1949 when the Vilanova de Sau dam was built on the Ter river.
This created a reservoir seventeen kilometers long and three kilometers wide. It is part of a system of three reservoirs which serve to provide water to Barcelona, Girona and the Costa Brava.
It also regulates the river to help prevent flooding and it is used to generate hydroelectric power.
The creation of the reservoir meant flooding the small village of Santa Roma de Sau. The residents were moved to the nearby village of Vilanova de Sau and even the cemetery was moved.
The flooded village is one of the attractions of the reservoir as the church and particularly the bell tower of the eleventh century church of Sant Roma is visible when the water level in the reservoir is low.
The church is thought to be the oldest church in the world preserved in water.
During the drought of 2023 the water level was so low that it was possible to see the entire church whereas often it is only the steeple that is visible and sometimes nothing at all.
If you want to be sure of seeing the church spire when you visit the reservoir you can check with the Sau reservoir website which will tell you the water level.
Many water sports are possible on the reservoir and include kayaking, paddle-boarding, sailing and water-skiing.
It is also a popular area for walking. The busiest walking routes are Morro de l'Albella and Puig del Far.
There is a picnic spots on the edge of the lake with tables and barbecues and a children's playground. There is a restaurant in the Yacht club are also restaurants at Vilanova de Sau and other villages in the area.
If you are looking to stay overnight in the area you could visit the lovely Hotel Parador de Vic-Sau which, from its elevated position has fabulous views from its windows.
Places to visit nearby
Near to the lake is the monastery of Sant Pere de Casseres. This was abandoned for years but renovated in 1998. It is now open for visits and you can learn about life in a monastery and visit the small cloister.
The pretty village of Rupit i Pruit is one of the most beautiful villages of Catalonia. The medieval village nestles amongst the surrounding rocks and has a rather scary suspension bridge to cross over the river.
The lovely village of Tavertet sits high up on a rocky cliff and has amazing views over the surrounding countryside.
You can find more local travel ideas in the Catalonia guide.
Find Vilanova-de-Sau (or elsewhere) hotels
Reserve excursions near Sau Reservoir
Photos of Sau Reservoir
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Map of Sau Reservoir and places to visit
Sau Reservoir places to visit
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