Circular route of the Cirque de Troumouse from the Chapelle de Héas

Before setting off, a quick reminder: in the Pyrenees National Park, we respect nature, leave no litter, keep dogs under control, stay on the paths and respect the wildlife.

Park in the car park at the Chapelle de Héas.

(S/E) With your back to the chapel, follow the road to another car park

(1) Take the path on the left at the end of the car park. Climb a long section to reach the Ruisseau de la Sède stream.

(2) Continue on and you will reach a technical section.

(3) Begin a steep climb for a while. Take the time to pause a few times before reaching the Cabane des Aires.

(4) Continue on almost flat terrain. You will then come to the Lacs des Aires lakes.

(5) Go around them on the left and reach the Gave de Héas, which feeds them.

(6) Ford this river, taking care especially in bad weather. Continue along a long, almost flat path to reach the Cabane de la Vierge.

(7) Continue a few steps further to reach the foot of the Vierge de Troumouse.

(8) Turn 90° to the left to begin the descent.

(9) Pass the roadside car park, stay on the left-hand path and follow a large circular right-hand bend to reach the Auberge du Maillet.

(10) Continue the descent by taking the paths that cross the road and arrive above the road.

(11) Be careful here: rejoin the road via a steep descent with sand and slippery ground, with a risk of rockfalls. Then continue left on the road to reach the Chapelle de Héas car park (S/E).

The start can be reached by car, but also by bicycle, motorbike or on foot.
Although this hike is accessible, the mountains always involve risks. Make sure you are properly equipped, check the weather forecast and take enough water with you. I have done this hike several times in good weather, so I don't know what the technical sections are like in rain or snow. In the mountains, you must know when to turn back if conditions do not allow you to continue safely.
On this route, there is very little shade and there are two technical sections.
Note: this superb circular route allows you to discover the Cirque de Troumouse, with incredible landscapes throughout the route.
(10) Water point at the inn.

(5) Lacs des Aires: Very pretty lakes, often crossable on foot in dry weather, as they may be dry.
(8) Vierge de Troumouse: superb panoramic view of the Cirque de Troumouse. A map of the peaks is available on the orientation table in front of the statue to identify the peaks.
(10) Enjoy a delicious crêpe at the Auberge du Maillet.