Plateau du Saquet walks

First day’s hike to the Refuge du Rulhe.With a 1,000 m elevation gain over 5.5 km, the average gradient of the climb to the Pyramide de Lherbés is 18%. IBP difficulty rating = 105 (“very difficult” for a hiker of average fitness).Allow 6½ hours with a light rucksack.This day takes place in the high mountains, far from any roads, tracks, etc.The landscapes and environments you’ll pass through are majestic.

The second stage of the “Ax-les-Thermes to Latour-de-Carol” route; this is a beautiful high-mountain stage with magnificent scenery. Favourable weather is recommended. This route follows a path which is initially very poorly signposted, climbing steeply towards the first pass, the Col de Behl, before reaching the Refuge de Ruhle, then the beautiful ascent to the Col de Juclar and finally the descent into Andorra towards the manned refuge of the same name.

First challenging stage of discovery in a preserved environment. Basic map reading and orienteering skills are required. The GPX track on Visorando or on a GPS device is very useful from the start and at the numerous junctions. It is entirely possible to shorten the route if necessary: see practical information.

This hike forms the first stage of a five-day route between Ax-les-Thermes and La Tour-de-Carol. This first stage presents no difficulty unless weather conditions are poor. The start is at Ax railway station, where you follow the road and then a very pretty path that climbs up into the mountains to reach an unstaffed but very comfortable refuge. This walk is only suitable for hikers accustomed to high-altitude mountain terrain and confident in navigating.

This beautiful Pyrenean hike takes five days; it is intended for hikers accustomed to high-altitude mountain terrain and confident in navigating. It does not present any major difficulties – the route is straightforward – but you do need to be comfortable in high-altitude mountain terrain. The idea behind this hike is to set off from one railway station and head to another, thus completing a circular route easily without needing a car.

Please note: the approach walk along the road is the only part of the hike that is in the shade if you set off early enough in the morning. This is the only way to complete this loop. It may seem tedious, but the landscape is very beautiful.The hike can be classified as quite difficult. After the footbridge over the Ruisseau de la Coume de Varilhes, the path is not easy: steep, with steps, a paved scree slope, a ledge to cross, etc. But once you reach the top, you will be rewarded. Then the GR®T66 from the largest of the Étang de Fontagente lakes to the refuge is more of the same. This is definitely a mountain hike.

This second day is exceptional. Most of it takes place on ridges from which you can see the Ax 3 Domaines resort on one side and the Plateau de Beille on the other. And everywhere, there are lakes and breathtaking landscapes. This stage is long (nearly 18 km), but you'll never want it to end before you descend into the valley through the forest. It's best to have someone waiting for you in the valley, or else you can reach Ax-les-Thermes on foot or by bus. Be aware that as you will be taking photos and spending time admiring the landscape, you should allow 6½ to 7 hours for the whole trip.

From the start of the hike, pay attention to the common white and red GR® T66 and GR®10 markings, as there are several crossroads and forks in the trail. Please note: the hike is in open terrain until the descent into the forest, well after the Rieutort hut.From the refuge, via the Crête des Isards and up to the Col de la Didorte, what a view! Of course, you need to be very careful on this ridge, which is often steep and jagged. But as soon as you stop, you can enjoy a 360° panorama.The steep descent to the Rieutort hut is on a narrow but safe path, offering beautiful views. The return to the road is not easy, but the path (GR®T66), although steep in places, is well marked throughout the descent.

Significant elevation gain over a relatively short distance. Magnificent landscapes in a very wild mountain setting. Numerous ponds along the way. A magnificent view from the Couillade d'en Beys. The effort is rewarded throughout the day. ⚠️ Stay on the marked trails: GRP® Tour de la Montagne d'Ax, as you are on the edge of or within the National Reserve.

Part of the long route (9 stages) around Carlit, hiking from refuge to refuge, based on the Tour des Pérics and using various marked trails,GRP® andGR® in the area. Initial stage designed to ease you gently into the hike.