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Col d'Espingo (1967m) walks
Espingo Lake
On the trail of the GR10, the Granges d’Astau and Espingo Lake, via Lake Oô.
Lake Espingo - Granges d'Astau
A gentle descent after the exertions of the previous days. From the Col d’Espingo, the Lac d’Oô below accompanies us for a long while. Once at the stone bridge, don’t hesitate to make a short detour to the Auberge du Lac d’Oô, where you can enjoy the view of the great waterfall, which will help you forget, if only for a moment, the increasingly obvious and cruel shortage of water. The return to Les Granges d’Astau brings this getaway in one of the most beautiful spots in the Luchon area to a pleasant close.
Tusse de Montarqué from Les Granges d'Astau
A more demanding hike than it appears, passing by famous lakes in the Pyrenees: Lac d’Oô and its superb waterfall, Lac d’Espingo, Lac de Saussat and Lac du Portillon. The view from the summit of the Tusse de Montarqué is magnificent, set in a cirque surrounded by numerous 3,000-metre peaks, which may inspire ideas for future hikes.
Walks near Col d'Espingo (1967m)
Jean Arlaud Mountain Hut – Pic des Spijeoles – Espingo Lake and Mountain Hut
From the ascent route, the east face of the Pic des Spijeoles immediately catches the eye. The ‘miners’ path’ route suggested here includes an exposed and dangerous section where there is no room for error. After Lac du Port d’Oo, the route continues over large, smooth slabs and scree, involving the crossing of two chimneys to reach the summit. The descent follows the standard route via the Coume de l’Abesque before reaching the Espingo Mountain Hut.
Granges d'Astau - Lac du Portillon
Starting from Les Granges d'Astau, there is a long climb with some steep sections, made more pleasant by the presence of several lakes. Lac d'Oô and its inn, and Lac d'Espingo in its magnificent setting are ideal places to stop for a break. After Lac du Saussat (pronounced Sa-ou-sat), the much smaller Lac de la Coume de l'Abesque marks the start of the steep, winding climb that leads to a plateau dotted with smooth rocks and small lakes, and then to the Jean Arlaud refuge.
Refuge du Maupas – Pic de Maupas – Lys Valley
On this day’s hike, you’ll need to find your own way up to the Pic de Maupas over rounded boulders, where the numerous cairns mean you’ll have to locate the next one each time to continue the ascent to the ‘Mal Pas’, which gave the peak its name. This is the only pass – difficult to access – allowing you to cross over to the western slope and complete the ascent with a few easy climbing moves. The return will follow the same route as the ascent, with a pleasant alternative route via Lac Vert.
Lac Vert, the Cirque de la Glère and the Hospice de France
A truly beautiful walk leading from the Vallée du Lys to the Hospice de France via the Lac Vert. The route is varied and the elevation gain is certainly significant, but this is more than made up for by the magnificent views over the Haut-Luchonnais and the ridge marking the border with Spain.
Lys Valley - Maupas Refuge
This first stage, which serves as an approach walk, is difficult. The climb is steep and sustained along the Torrent de Houradade up to the junction at the Cabane de la Coume. Continuing the route to reach the Cabane de Pratlong allows you to catch your breath a little before tackling the final stretch via the numerous tight hairpin bends leading to the pumping station and then to the Refuge du Maupas, where the warm welcome will quickly make you forget the day’s exertions.
Maupas Mountain Hut via the Cirque des Crabioules
An alternative route to climb up and spend the night at the Refuge du Maupas: this is longer than the standard ascent but less busy, offering splendid views over the Lys Valley and the 3,000-metre peaks overlooking the Cirque des Crabioules. Best undertaken in good weather, as the path is sometimes poorly marked after the Anciennes Mines des Crabioules.
Estos Mountain Hut – Viados Mountain Hut
The second day of the Tour du Posets begins with a steady climb along the GR®11 to reach the Col d’Estos. The second part of the day is a long descent leading to the Refuge de Viados. There are stunning views of the valleys, followed by views of the summit of Posets and its neighbouring peaks during the second part of the day.
Superbagnères – Lac d’Oô – Granges d’Astau
Easily accessible without a car, this walk offers views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, as well as the magnificent Lac d’Oô. A perfectly signposted and well-maintained path where it is impossible to get lost. The return journey will be by public transport back to Luchon station.
Aiguallut Waterfall and Forau d’Aiguallut
A beautiful succession of landscapes including a plateau, a mountain refuge, a pass and a waterfall…
Park in the car park accessible to tourists. Alternatively, there is a paid shuttle bus from Bénasque to La Besurta.
Water is available at the La Besurta car park, at the refreshment bar and at the mountain refuge.
Fuente de la Pubiya – Prados de Llosás
Starting from Fuente de la Pubiya and ending at Prados de Llosás. The first day covers around 10 km with a climb of nearly 1,000 m. A lovely, gradual climb through the heart of the valley, with superb scenery and a finish in a magnificent setting.