Tour of the Garrié massif

On leaving Saint-Girons, on the right bank of the Salat, head towards Lacourt on the D3. 3 km after the Saint-Girons exit sign, turn left towards Encourtiech. At the entrance to the hamlet of Le Coch, turn left, following the signposts for the start of the walk, and head to the car park at the start, where you will find information boards and the first signposts. This car park can accommodate around a dozen vehicles. It is the starting point for the Tour du massif du Garrié hike, as well as the start of the Cap et de la Croix de Garrié hike, which provides direct access to the summit without having to go round the massif. This shorter hike is also described on the “Cap de Garrié” page

(S/E) From the car park, head down to the path a few metres below and follow it to the first junction.

(1) Continue straight on, leaving the direct route to Cap de Garrié on your right. When you reach the road, follow it to the bend in the pine forest.

(2) Take the path on the right, following the Tour du Garrié signposts. You will arrive at the hunters’ hut, which is closed.

(3) Turn right and continue to follow the markings until you reach a fork.

(4) Leave the track and follow the signposted path on the right which climbs up a boxwood hedge. Continue straight ahead until you reach the Croix de Garrié junction.

(5) The more adventurous can follow the markings to the right, which lead to the Croix du Garrié or Cap de Garrié. Otherwise, go straight on. At the “Parking” sign, turn left and head downhill to rejoin the original path.

(1) Turn left and head back to the car park (S/E).

The only requirement is suitable footwear, even lightweight shoes, as the entire route follows a marked path. Bring water with you, as there are no water sources along the route.
No map is required; the route is clearly signposted and marked at all junctions with very clear signs.

The southern slope is the ideal spot for a leisurely stroll whilst admiring the Pyrenees mountain range, which can be seen close by. Along this entire slope, you overlook the tiny hamlets that make up the village of Encourtiech. Finally, the descent back to the car park offers views of the ruins of Encourtiech Castle and, beyond it, the medieval tower of Chuneau. The view is also breathtaking over the Salat valley, which winds its way at your feet.
And for the more adventurous who take the alternative route leading to Cap de Garrié in about ten minutes, you’ll feel as though Saint-Girons lies at your feet.
After the hike, for those who wish to do so, do stop off about 400 metres further down to visit the castle ruins, which can be fully explored via a short path.