Refuge de Venasque walks

This first stage, which serves as an approach walk, is difficult. The climb is steep and sustained along the Torrent de Houradade up to the junction at the Cabane de la Coume. Continuing the route to reach the Cabane de Pratlong allows you to catch your breath a little before tackling the final stretch via the numerous tight hairpin bends leading to the pumping station and then to the Refuge du Maupas, where the warm welcome will quickly make you forget the day’s exertions.

Easily accessible without a car, this walk offers views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, as well as the magnificent Lac d’Oô. A perfectly signposted and well-maintained path where it is impossible to get lost. The return journey will be by public transport back to Luchon station.

A gentle descent after the exertions of the previous days. From the Col d’Espingo, the Lac d’Oô below accompanies us for a long while. Once at the stone bridge, don’t hesitate to make a short detour to the Auberge du Lac d’Oô, where you can enjoy the view of the great waterfall, which will help you forget, if only for a moment, the increasingly obvious and cruel shortage of water. The return to Les Granges d’Astau brings this getaway in one of the most beautiful spots in the Luchon area to a pleasant close.

Starting from Les Granges d'Astau, there is a long climb with some steep sections, made more pleasant by the presence of several lakes. Lac d'Oô and its inn, and Lac d'Espingo in its magnificent setting are ideal places to stop for a break. After Lac du Saussat (pronounced Sa-ou-sat), the much smaller Lac de la Coume de l'Abesque marks the start of the steep, winding climb that leads to a plateau dotted with smooth rocks and small lakes, and then to the Jean Arlaud refuge.

This challenging hike, situated in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, takes you to discover the Estanys de Anglios, a magnificent series of high-altitude lakes located off the beaten track of the Aigüestortes National Park’s main routes. The first section, mostly through woodland, follows the GR® 11 and leads to the Estany Gran, an ideal spot for a picnic break. The rest of the route requires a good sense of direction and experience of navigating difficult terrain with few landmarks. Nevertheless, the various lakes you’ll encounter and the beauty of the scenery will easily make you forget these challenges: torrents of all sizes, lakes with crystal-clear waters, enchanting woodland and an exceptional natural cirque.