Loop via the Étang de l'Estagnet, the Étang Bleu and the Étang de Rabassoles

To get to the start of the hike, from Ax-les-Thermes, pass the village of Ascou, the Ascou Pailhères ski resort and, when you reach the Col de Pailhères, descend on the Mijanès side (be careful on the winding road). After the Mijanès ski resort, turn right onto a small road that continues as a forest track to the Restanque car park.

(S/E) From the car park, take the forest track that climbs to the right, west, to a superb picnic spot (with wooden tables, a small river and large trees). It's so beautiful that you'll want to stop and enjoy the place!

(1) Turn right onto a wide path that climbs into the woods, marked in yellow. After leaving the forest, the climb becomes gentler. You will come to an intersection with a signpost indicating two directions.

(2) Turn left towards the Estagnet (the other path is the return route). Be careful! The trail is marked in yellow on the rocks, but at the start, the path is not very visible: climb up the small dome and then stay to the left of the stream. The climb to the Étang de l'Estagnet is quite wild, although well marked and signposted. Sometimes, nature takes a little too much liberty.

(3) Étang de l'Estagnet: surrounded by greenery, this small lake is truly away from the crowds. It is a real haven of peace. Go around it on the right, along the path.

(4) At the end of the lake, a small stream flows up towards the pass. Follow it along a path marked in yellow.

(5) Just before the pass, take a path on the right that cuts across. It is located at a yellow cross on the right (be careful, it is on a fairly steep slope). Otherwise, continue to the pass and then, in both cases, take the GR® on the right (white and red markings). You will quickly reach a beautiful little lake.

(6) Be quiet and, with a bit of luck, you may see or hear marmots. Continue on the GR® to the Étang Bleu, which you will reach quickly.

(7) At the second cove, the trail splits in two: follow the one on the right, descending gently towards the first Étang de Rabassoles.

(8) Étang de Rabassoles: the place is so beautiful that you'll want to stay and camp! However , continue along the trail, heading east. Return to the fork you passed on the way there.

(2) Retrace your steps to return to the car park (S/E).

A beautiful little loop that is a bit technical on the climb to Estagnet (humidity, rocks and vegetation) but otherwise very pleasant.

The journey from Ax-les-Thermes is quite long, but even by car, the route is worth the detour through the little Quebec of Ariège.