Refuge de l'Étang du Pinet walks

This high-mountain hike takes you to the two iconic peaks of the Vicdessos valley in Ariège: Pique d'Estats and Montcalm!Montcalm (3,077 m) is the first "3,000" peak in the Pyrenees coming from the Mediterranean, and Pique d'Estats (3,143 m) is the highest peak in Catalonia, which explains their symbolic nature. Please note that some hikers have described the descent as dangerous. See the reviews and please keep us informed, but remain cautious.

A very beautiful hike, but one that has to be earned. There is a 1,000-metre elevation gain over a short distance. The variety of paths taken, including rivers, forests, mountainsides and lakes, will make you forget the difficulty. The view of the Bassiès massif on the way up and down is truly magnificent. The bonus: the welcome at the refuge is very warm. From the refuge, you can continue on to several other lakes, or enjoy the beautiful view of all the 3,000-metre peaks around Montcalm.

Fourth stage of the journey in Haute-Ariège.Leave very early as it gets very busy in summer.Drive to the Aire d'Artigue.A very beautiful mountain hike, but difficult due to the steep incline.Pass by Étang Sourd before arriving at the original Refuge de l'Étang du Pinet.Return via the GRT60.Circular route in the opposite direction from Étang and Refuge du Pinet in a taboulechat circular route.

This is a high-mountain route, to be undertaken in good weather conditions and when the snowpack is stable. The route remains fairly busy, even in winter. The trail is therefore usually well trodden, making it easier to find your way.Above the refuge, there is a long traverse on steep slopes which is not technically difficult if the snow is not too hard, but can be daunting. This section is prone to avalanches and should only be attempted when the snow cover is perfectly stable (crampons and ice axe recommended). Beware of strong winds on the ridges.

A beautiful cross-border high mountain loop between France, Spain and Andorra, which takes you through the highest peaks of Ariège and Andorra, as well as other iconic peaks in the region. It also allows you to discover numerous lakes and ponds, as well as a multitude of different landscapes (forests, summer pastures, scree slopes, etc.) to delight all hikers. This itinerary takes us through three natural parks: the Ariège Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, the Alt Pirineu Natural Park and the Coma Pedrosa Valley Nature Park.

The second day is a high-mountain stage passing through the highest point of this itinerary: Pic d'Estats, as well as two other peaks over 3,000 m nearby, Pic du Montcalm and Pic de Verdaguer. The route is largely over scree and rocky terrain, which will greatly appeal to mineral enthusiasts. The trail largely follows the Porta del Cel hike and the GR®T61. Although not particularly technical, this stage should not be taken lightly due to its altitude (three peaks over 3,000 metres), its length, its elevation gain and its trails composed of loose stones that can make progress difficult.

The first stage of the journey, the shortest and easiest, to warm up your legs, passing through the Bois de Fontanal and the Étang Sourd to the Refuge du Pinet. The elevation gain is still significant.