Country:
City:
To reach the site from Perpignan, take the road to Andorra. On leaving Mont-Louis, follow the road to Formiguères (D118). Shortly afterwards, take the road on the left towards the Bouillouses nature reserve, at an altitude of 2,000 metres. A shuttle bus runs during the summer months. If you have proof of an overnight stay at the Bouillouses site, you can take the shuttle bus up. Out of season, you must park below the dam.
(S) The walk begins by crossing the dam. You’ll be able to see the Grand and Petit Pérics (the destination for thesecond day) at the far end of Lac des Bouillouses, due north.
At the end of the dam, head straight on to the very popular ‘Twelve Lakes’ route, which winds its way around the lower reaches of the Carlit. Pass beneath the Bones Hores hotel.
The path forms part of the HRP*, which crosses the Pyrenees, running parallel to the famousGR®10.
This much-used path is unmissable.
Alternative routes allow you to walk past the lakes, each one as beautiful as the next.
All these paths lead you to the foot of the main ascent, at an altitude of 2,364 metres.
(1) Follow the clearly marked path to the small lake at around 2,690 m (yellow markings). There’s no risk of going astray.
(2) Looking eastwards, the view of the lakes is magnificent. Let’s hope the light is just right with plenty of sunshine.
From this point onwards, things get more challenging. You’ll need to stow away any walking poles, as there are sections requiring climbing. Keep a close eye on and follow the yellow markings. Do not head due west across the slabs.
The path becomes more difficult in the upper part of the chimney, beneath what looks like a pass.
(3) At this pass, turn left and head for Puig Carlit, with its cross. The summit platform can accommodate quite a few people. All the better, as there are some lovely photos to be taken. Looking westwards, down below, the little Estany dels Forats lies at an elevation of 2457. This gives a good idea of the descent that lies ahead.
Retrace your steps to reach the pass-like opening.
(4) Head down to the left along this steep slope. A zigzagging path is visible through the scree. Be careful – the ground is loose underfoot.
(5) To the right, the Estany dels Forats. To the left, a river where you can top up your water supplies*.
Continue the descent, which becomes gentler, towards the Étang de Lanoux.
(6) Work in progress on the dam means you’ll need to take a diversion from the usual route. Turn right: posts marked with the red and whiteGR®7signposting will guide you to the usual path, which heads north-east up from the Étang de Lanoux. You’ll reach the Cabane Rouzet (E).
Visorando Member
Moderate 
