Aurélien D

The Mont Né circular route from the Port de Balès offers breathtaking views of the Pyrenean peaks: from the Ariège peaks to the summits of Néouvielle and the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. The route then continues along the Crêtes de Pal, passing through the Port de Pierrefite and the Pic du Lion to reach the summit of the Pic du Montious, the highest point of the hike. The descent to Lac de Bareilles is a chance to relax. On the way back, you’ll come across cows and goats along the path.

You might think that this summit lacks character compared to its neighbours, but what a route from the Hospice de France! Magnificent lakes such as Lac de la Montagnette and Lacs de Vénasque. While the approach walk to Cirque de la Glère is suitable for walkers, the Montagnette valley is reserved for experienced hikers who enjoy steep slopes with aerial passages.

On the edge of the Néouvielle Nature Reserve, this hike alternates between wide open spaces, stretches of water such as the large Lac de l'Oule, pine forests bathed in sunshine, groves and small lakes. Enjoy views of the high peaks, not to mention the Bastan Refuge and its idyllic surroundings. The ascent to Pichaley, with a final climb over rocky, steep terrain, will be the highlight of your journey, with panoramic views as your reward.

This tour of the lakes will take you into the heart of the Néouvielle Nature Reserve. Two elements are omnipresent: water, from the large Lac de l'Oule and Lac d'Orédon to the small lakes, the Miroirs d'Aubert and Miroirs d'Aumart, and the tiny lakes that are gradually filling up, and pine trees, either solitary or in groves. All the riches of this protected environment are fragile. So please be careful to leave no trace of your visit.

The legendary mountain of Roussillon has always held a great appeal for hikers. The Canigou fascinates some and frightens others. From the Refuge des Cortalets, the ascent is fairly easy. But starting from Vernet-les-Bains, at a lower altitude, this route is aimed at experienced hikers who are not put off by the elevation gain. The magnificent panorama from the summit and the subtle landscapes along the entire route reinforce, step by step, the pleasure of walking in these surroundings.

It is a peaceful valley where a thin stream flows, where large herds of horses and cows graze in the calm air, indifferent to this geological feature, this reddish earth, on the border between Spain and France and Lac d'Estaëns (Ibon de Astanès).