Pic Saint-Barthélémy as seen from the Monts d’Olmes resort

Reach the Monts d’Olmes ski resort from Lavelanet and then Montferrier. Park in the upper car park near the snow-grooming vehicles’ buildings.

(S/E) Take the wide track used by the snow groomers heading south.

(1) At the junction, follow the wide track to the right, as the path to the left is reserved for mountain bikes. When you reach the flat section, take the path on the left to go round the lower chairlift station. Watch out for skiers in winter.

(2) Follow the south-easterly path which climbs through the forest and continue to the exit.

(3) At the Fork in the road, go straight on, crossing the path that leads left to Lac de Fage Belle. Go round the lake to the right, first to the west and then to the south. Keep to the left without taking the path that climbs to the right towards the Col de Cadène.

(4) At the fork in the road, take the path on the left towards the Col de Girabal. The path on the right would take you to the Col d’Appy (another lovely walk). This path takes you back down into the valley towards the south-east before climbing back up towards the pass.

(5) At the Col de Girabal, there are lovely views to the north and south. Take the path climbing to the left towards the Pic de Saint-Barthélémy. The climb is quite steep but not dangerous, leading to the Pic de Saint-Barthélémy at 2,348 m. There is a magnificent, almost 360° view, although the Soularac to the east obscures some of the peaks.

(6) Turn back and, following the same route as on the way up, head back to the car park at the top of the resort (S/E).

(2) Intersection of ski runs, so take care in winter.

(6) Lovely view from the summit across the Pyrenees range, stretching from Andorra to Le Vallier.