Lac des Bouillouses walks

A classic in the Eastern Pyrenees, this route takes you to the highest point in the department (2,921 metres), passing by more than a dozen small mountain lakes.

Beautiful views of the Carlit. Three-quarters of the route is shaded near the lakes. Rhododendrons, blueberries, etc.

Part of the long route (9 days) around Carlit, travelling from refuge to refuge, based on the Peyrics tour and using various marked trails.

A first pretty lake with a view of Carlit and a little less crowded than the surrounding lakes, then a return via Lac d'Aude with a beautiful view of Lac des Bouillouses and Carlit.

A very beautiful snowshoe hike at an altitude of 2,000 metres.It can certainly be done in summer. The only issue is the mandatory lower car park. The shuttle buses operating during this period can stop at this car park.The recorded and suggested winter route does not correspond exactly to the summer route shown on the various base maps.

Snow hike. Snowshoes are recommended for this magnificent tour of the Esquits lakes. In winter, crossing the ski slopes can be tricky (steep slope and high speed of skiers: black run).

A wonderful, refreshing getaway, accessible to all, in the heart of unspoilt wilderness at the foot of the "roof" of the Pyrénées-Orientales. An ideal route for immersing yourself in the beauty of the high-altitude landscapes around the listed site of Les Bouillouses. A refreshing hike that I recommend doing at dawn. ⚠️ Restricted access: see practical information.

Updated and compliant as of 12 September 2022. This 50 km journey with 2,700 m of elevation gain over 4 days starts at the Bouillouses dam. Rated as difficult*, it offers a variety of vegetation and climates. Passage between Ariège and the Pyrénées Orientales. Snowfields at the start of the season at Coll de Coma d'Anyell.Stages 1 and 3 can be classified as difficult +.Every evening, there is a comfortable place to rest and eat. This trip can be adapted and started from different locations. See Practical Information. Bear in mind that starting from a different location will add time and probably elevation gain on the first day.

A beautiful, long and demanding day’s hike, set in the spectacular, listed landscape of Lac des Bouillouses and Puig Carlit. This hike is only suitable for hikers confident in their navigation skills, as part of the route is off-trail. Best undertaken in good weather, preferably in summer, setting off early. The path leading to Puig Carlit, which is very well marked and safe, features some slightly exposed sections that may pose difficulties for those prone to vertigo.

Modification on 12 September 2022: validated on Sunday 11 September 2022. Fourth and final stage of the Tour Des Pérics. The scenery is consistently stunning. This is a fairly long stage, with cars being collected by shuttle buses. See practical information on the Tour des Pérics.

This walk starts at Coll del Palm, an ideal starting point for exploring the landscapes of the Pyrénées-Orientales. Here is the detailed route to Lac des Bouillouses.

Modification on 12 September 2022: addition of the Petit Péric ascent validated on Thursday 8 September 2022.This first stage of the Tour des Pérics is enhanced by beautiful landscapes.It offers a taste of the mountain scenery that will be encountered during these four days.Vehicles must be left in the free car park. See the practical information section*.In summer, you must take a paid shuttle bus to Lac des Bouillouses. See the practical information section **. Please note: from (8), you must have the GPX track or a very good sense of direction to attempt the ascent of Petit Peric.

A wild route to the source of the Aude (or Auda) river, starting from the iconic Lac des Bouillouses. On the agenda: breathtaking views of the Carlit and even the Canigó, streams to cross, pine forests, wide open spaces and, of course, lakes.Please note that access to Les Bouillouses is restricted (check with the departmental council or the Pyrénées Catalanes tourist office).

Part of the long itinerary (9 days) around Carlit, hiking from refuge to refuge, based on the Peyrics tour and using various marked trails.

The second stage of this circuit is rocky at first, then more rolling. The whole thing is enchanting.The trail is well marked. ⚠️ From (S/E) to (3), you are in the Orlu National Hunting and Wildlife Reserve, where regulations must be observed. See practical information.

Part of the long (9-day) itinerary around Carlit, hiking from refuge to refuge, based on the Tour des Pérics and using various marked trails.

Long itinerary around Carlit, hiking from refuge to refuge, based on the Peyrics tour and using various marked trails.Two possible variations to modify the circuit: from 9 stages to 7 stages Ascent of the Carlit: 1 day and return to Les Bouillouses Return via the Lanoux lake: 1 extra day, passing by the foot of the Carlit and the Bésines refuge, or direct return from Porté to L'Hospitalet. Hike completed in July-August 2017