3 ideas for hiking in the Pyrenees
Summer is in full swing and the sun never stops shining on our beautiful Pyrenean mountains. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the holidays are an opportune time to take to the trails and go hiking. Inspiring and subtle, this return to nature offers us magical moments of conviviality and sharing. We would like to share this love of the mountains with you through 3 walks that we love.
The "cirque de Gavarnie" and its vertiginous waterfall of 423 metres high.
Level : easy, kids friendly – Lenght: 8km Timing : 3h
This is one of our favourite walks! The paths are gentle and lead to the incredible 423 metre high waterfall of the cirque de Gavarnie. This natural wonder is surprisingly majestic and is part of the famous Unesco World Heritage Site. In any season, the pebble path is practicable and crosses broad plains of green grass while skirting a lake of Gavarnie.
The hike starts in the village of Gavarnie, where a car park awaits walkers; it takes about 1.5 hours to get to the Cirque hotel, which offers a magnificent observation point of the waterfall. The more courageous can continue the hike to get as close as possible: count 2km more.
During the high season, children can discover the "cirque" in the company of donkeys and horses: a unique experience that will leave a lasting impression on their minds.
Crédit photo : Emmanuel Cloix.
The Montagnon of Iseye lake and its romantic curves
Level : difficult Lenght: 8,4km Timing : 6h
Located in the Ossau valley, this lake is a wonder! It is known for its heart-shaped contours which sum up the beauty of nature. But be careful, approaching it requires several hours of walking.
The departure is at 1062 meters of altitude from the car park of Barca in Aydius for an arrival at 2173 meters! ! With a elevation gain in altitude of +950 metres, it is better to be a "good walker" before going on the climb.
On the way, you will enjoy the colours of the beech forests, the flowery plains embedded in the imposing mountains. On the way, you will come across a few horses and cows grazing peacefully; sometimes marmots and isards are part of the journey.
Even if the paths sometimes seem endless, arriving at the banks of the lake is unforgettable; note, however, that you will have to climb to the peak of the Montagnon d'Iseye to see the shape of the lake and enjoy an exceptional panorama of the Pyrenees!
Crédit photo : Emmanuel Cloix.
Lake of Gaube, a haven of peace at the foot of the Vignemale
Level : easy, kids friendly – Lenght: 8,4km Timing : 6h
In the heart of the Pyrenees, the Gaube lake certainly offers one of the most grandiose landscapes in the Pyrenees! It lies at the foot of the Vignemale between rocky mountains and green pastures. Its translucent waters are tinged with emerald and can be seen from the mossy banks. You can come early in the morning to contemplate its calmness or have a picnic lunch with your family when the weather permits.
Access is very easy and can be reached in an hour and a half's walk from the "Pont d'Espagne" car park; for the little ones, you can take the chairlift and reduce the walking effort to 15 minutes.
On the way, we like to stop at the "Pont d'Espagne" waterfall and listen to the roaring water joining the valley.
Crédit photo : Emmanuel Cloix.
Strolling, walking or hiking: the accessories to take along
Before leaving, it is important to find out what the weather and temperatures are likely to be like during the hike. Good equipment is essential for enjoying the views.
A pair of high-top hiking boots is obviously essential: they provide excellent ankle support and optimal grip on wet stones.
Clothing must be adapted to the weather: a waterproof and windproof parka, a fleece and loose-fitting trousers are recommended.
To cover the extremities and avoid getting cold, we strongly advise you to bring a polar headband like the Orhy headband, a cap like the Winner cap with its folding earflaps as well as the Phenix snood to be worn as a muffler or neckband.
We wish you a good hike!
