Vicdessos walks

The mining trail winds its way through the woods around the delightful Sem valley. Follow in the footsteps of the former miners of Rancié and discover the past.

This hike is for experienced hikers who are comfortable using the app, as it takes place on unmarked roads and trails until the junction with the GR® Tour des Trois Seigneurs at the highest point of the Crêtes de Bège. The trails are old but still easily identifiable and easy to follow. However, you will need to be in good physical condition as there is a significant elevation gain over a relatively short distance. You will also need to be able to identify the best routes when you reach the rocky part of the ridge. From there, you will discover exceptional 360° panoramic views. The return journey, which is not particularly difficult, follows the GR® trail.

As its name suggests, the hike takes place on the southern slope and on the heights of Vicdessos. You will take an old, entirely paved road to reach the village of Illier with its interesting narrow streets, then follow a balcony path through a forest of boxwood, cherry, oak, acacia and hazelnut trees to the village of Orus. From there, the landscape opens up onto a safe path built on the mountainside, offering beautiful views as you reach the village of Sentenac, from where you will return partly via the D18. All these roads and paths are built on foundations that bear witness to civil engineering skills in terms of their volume and position.

A beautiful route alternating between beech forests, stunning views of the Os Valley and old iron mines, starting from the small village of Sem, above Vicdessos. Best done in dry, clear weather.

A magnificent circular route through the forest with numerous information panels along the route, offering welcome breaks during the tough climb and breathtaking panoramic views. With two must-see sights, the Refuge de Grail (closed) and the Col de Grisoul! This short but steep hike in the Vicdessos valley reveals an important part of the mining history of the Ariège. Here, in the heart of the mountains, the Mines du Rancié began with modern open-pit iron ore extraction at an altitude of over 1,500 metres, before more and more tunnels were dug, descending ever deeper! Connected to each other, they saved many lives during the frequent rockfalls that led to their permanent closure in 1931, despite the fact that the deposit was far from exhausted.

This hike is suitable for walkers who know how to use the app and are observant of their surroundings. Most of the route follows paths marked on the map, but these are often difficult to spot. There are no signposts from the Col de Grail onwards; however, some sections remain clearly visible and provide reassurance regarding the route. Do not attempt this hike if there is a risk of fog or after rain, as the descent into the gispet could prove very difficult. Otherwise, there are remarkable views of the Pique d’Endron, Vicdessos, the Pic des Trois Seigneur, Montcalm and others...

Second day of a three-day trip (August 2023) starting from Vicdessos (Val de Sos). A challenging hike at the start. From (2) to (8), gradient 30%, distance 3 km, elevation gain 1000 m. After (6), the stunning scenery makes the effort required to reach the Crête du Sarrasi (8) well worth it. From this high vantage point, a lovely descent follows, with stunning views throughout. From the Col de Grail (13), the return journey via theGR®10is much more comfortable. Please note: the section from (6) to (12) is exposed.

The Pique d'Endron, which can be seen majestically from Goulier, is located on a ridge separating the Siguer and Vicdessos valleys. Magnificent viewpoint with a 360° panorama of all the great peaks around, and below, the Étangs d'Izourt and Gnioure lakes.

The Pique d'Endron is a central viewpoint in the Haute-Ariège. From here, you can see the Montcalm massif and the Bassiès massif with its terraced lakes up close, and you can look out over two large ponds: Gnioure with its small island and Izourt. The view to the north stretches far into the distance. The outing is relatively short but quite challenging with its 1,000 m elevation gain, dizzying views and a short passage where you have to "use your hands".

First day completed during a three-day trip (August 2023) from Vicdessos (Val de Sos). Please note: the proposed route, which is in perfect condition, is only roughly marked except for the section of theGR®10. This hike is classified as difficult due to the need for good orientation skills, the poor condition ofthe GR®10, the numerous steps to climb, the duration, etc. If it is a simple return trip to the refuge via theGR®10, then the hike can be classified as moderate.

The granite cirque of Bassiès, near the Montcalm massif, is impressive for its size and its lakes. It is accessed from the right bank of the steeply-sided Bassiès stream via a comfortable but steep path that passes through a beautiful forest before coming out onto a rocky outcrop that marks the first lake. The descent is on the other bank, which is just as steep, following a well-maintained stony mule track.

A difficult but exceptional hike offering panoramic views of the Ariège Pyrenees. After a steep climb to the Bassiès lakes, you will walk along them before gaining height and reaching the Pic de Cabanatous, a viewpoint offering a 360° view from Tarbésou to Mont Vallier.

First stage of the journey through the Haute-Ariège. A beautiful, steady climb takes you to the Étang d’Izourt, steeped in human history. This is followed by a gruelling climb up to the Orri de la Caudière. Once you’ve crossed the rustic footbridge, there’s another very steep climb up to the small Étang du Fourcat. The rest of the route to the Étang du Fourcat refuge is more gentle. A very steep climb to the Fourcat refuge with an average gradient of 17 per cent. Please note: from the Étang d’Izourt to the refuge, the gradient is 24 per cent.

A beautiful hike that will take you to one of the most beautiful lakes in the Vicdessos valley. The times indicated are for a trained walker. Allow at least 5 hours to reach the refuge.

A beautiful hike ending at the Étang d'Izourt with a stunning view. The Étang d'Izourt is a dam lake with a tragic history (read about it on the commemorative plaque). There are two paths you can take to get to the Étang d'Izourt: the left bank or the right bank of the stream. The outward journey is on the right bank of the Arties stream and the return journey is on the left bank.

This hike in the Siguer valley is very varied. The climb along the Brouquenat stream is bucolic and feels easy despite the length and elevation gain.

This is a fairly long route, taking around 6 hours to climb up to Étang Blaou. The route is easy up to Cabane de Peyregrand, where you simply follow the yellow markings. In the plain around the hut, the markings are more or less faded and it is easy to lose track of them. They reappear at the start of the final climb, where the cairns and yellow markings are fairly easy to see. It's a real treat once you reach the lake, where there is no one else around and the landscape is magnificent.

Before heading back, there is the option of a return trip to the Étang de Bassiès from the refuge, leaving some of your luggage at the refuge.A fairly short second stage, with two steep ascents (19% to 38%): one from the Refuge de Bassiès to the Port de Bassiès, and the even more challenging one from the Port de Saleix to the Pic de Girantès or Mont Ceint. In fact, it is a rather gruelling, up-and-down stage, classified as difficult. The ascents and descents are on challenging trails (pebbles, rocks, scree). The whole day is spent in open country with stunning panoramic views. The route passes the beautiful Étang d’Alate.The relative altitude, between 1,520 m and 2,100 m, means this day’s walk is feasible even in the height of summer.

This is an idyllic circular route in the Vicdessos Stream valley, starting from the hamlet of Marc, with a steep climb right from the start, followed by a good descent halfway through. The route follows dirt tracks or concrete paths.

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 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.

This high-altitude hike gives you an exact view of the high mountains of the Ariège and their perched ponds. This small pond in a peaceful setting has an immediate charm. Moderator's warning as of 22/03/2021: Caution! in snowy conditions, very tricky passage; see reviews

This peak at the gateway to the Pyrenees, 1 hour from Toulouse, offers a magnificent panorama of the 3000-metre peaks (Montcalm, Pic d'Estats). The hike is a little challenging, but the varied landscapes (streams, ponds, meadows, peaks) more than make up for the effort. There are no real technical difficulties, apart from the need to use your hands occasionally on certain sections of the ascent or descent.

A magnificent hike with no major difficulties. A majestic lake and wonderful views of the Ariège Pyrenees and Andorra from Pic de Bassibié.

A beautiful loop starting from the village of Gourbit.Passing by the Étang d'Artax (Artats), the Roc de Querquéou and the Col de Lastris.The viewpoint, at an altitude of almost 1,900 metres, is a feast for the eyes.

A beautiful circular starting from Port de Lers, passing by Pic de Girantes (or Mont Ceint) with magnificent 360° views, then descending to Port de Saleix and climbing back up to Port de Bassiès with superb views of the refuge and the Bassiès lakes. Return via Pas de la Portère via a difficult climb.

Do not underestimate these two days, which pack in significant gradients over a relatively short distance.The first day is interesting for the discoveries it offers and a section with virtually no signposting. The arrival at the refuge is magnificent.Spending the night at the Refuge de Bassiès allows you to look forward to the return journey on the second day with greater peace of mind.A visit to the Étangs de Bassiès can be planned for the second day from the refuge, leaving some of your kit there. You can then collect all your kit for the challenging return walk to the Port de Lers car park.

The first day takes you to the Bassiès Refuge, passing huts, a valley, mountain passes, an old mine, a pond, and various cols and mountain passes. The stretch from the Col de las Fouzès to the Port de Bassiès is particularly beautiful.The route follows paths and tracks that are difficult due to their terrain (rock, scree, unmarked).See practical information * From (3) to (6), an unmarked path with gradients of 15% and 25%, with Patou sheep present from (4). From (12) to (18), a marked path with gradients of 16% to 30%.Allow approximately 6 hours for the walk.

A circular walk in a magnificent landscape bathed in a calm and soothing atmosphere. This loop will delight lovers of peace and quiet as well as those wishing to reconnect with nature.

Despite its modest altitude (1,840 m), Roc de Querquéou offers a superb view of the many peaks of the Haute Ariège. After the beautiful climb through the woods to Col du Pla de Faradu and then Col de Lastris, you will need to redouble your efforts to climb the extremely steep ridge that leads to the summit. The return journey takes you via the Col de la Bène and the pretty pastoral site of La Grangette d'en Bas before returning to Génat.

A lovely viewpoint, a dolmen and a rural plateau.

A lovely off-trail walk through the forest and boxwood trees.

A pleasant family walk in a beech forest, interesting in all seasons, including for snowshoeing.

A beautiful circular starting from the small village of Gourbit. You will pass through Artax, then Pic de Bassibié and Pic de Pioulou, before descending to the Étangs Bleus de la Courbière via the Col de la Couillate. Finally, the hike ends at the Cirque d'Embans, the Cabane d'Embanels and then a climb back up to the village of Gourbit.

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 gentle walk to the Artigue waterfalls.

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 lovely loop around the Ruisseau de l'Artigue and Estats. This loop allows you to avoid the crowds that can gather in summer due to the easy access to the waterfall and the canyoning activity.

This is a fairly short hike that takes you to a summit steeped in history and offering superb panoramic views.

This hike, accessible to all, offers a taste of the high mountains. After the Étang de Labant, the route leads to the Pic de Cabanatous, a marvellous lookout point over the Étangs de Bassiès and beyond to the great summits of the Ariège. On the way back, the Étang d'Alate is the perfect place to stop for a break before heading back to the Port de Saleix, a very important ancient communication route that facilitated trade between the Couserans and Vicdessos regions.

A beautiful blue pond at the foot of the granite Mont Garias with a beautiful view of Mont Valier during the ascent

A magnificent hike through varied landscapes along the entire route. The climb to Port de Bassiès is steady and not too difficult. Unfortunately, there is a 280 m descent to the refuge, which you will have to climb back up. Take advantage of the view of the lakes and the Pique Rouge cirque to rest for a while.

A very beautiful hike that follows a ridge line and offers magnificent views of the entire massif. This is a hike with a significant elevation gain, reserved for experienced hikers.

This route offers a very pretty circular route providing access to a superb viewpoint over the entire massif. The Coumebière Plateau is a stunning grassy meadow leading to the Pas du Roc canyon. What’s more, vultures are often seen circling above the Pic de Girantès to take advantage of the updrafts, providing a great opportunity to take some magnificent photographs.

This lovely circular walk takes you to the Refuge de Bassiès, over mountain passes, and past lakes and an old mine on the way back.

Circular around Coumebière with beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. It will allow you to discover the Étang de Labant, an old mine and the Girantes plateau, which is not as flat as its name might suggest, all at the foot of the 1,975 m Mont Ceint.

The ascent is divided into two sections: the Cirque de Garbettou, which is easy to access, with its waterfall and streams, and the steeper, rockier climb towards the Étang du Garbet, with its turquoise-blue reflections, waterfall and occasional snowfields. 26/08/2024: According to reviews, allow a good 4 hours on average to complete this hike.

A family hike accessible to all, including children, in an area rich in pastoral history. This hike gives pride of place to wooded trails and highlights the waters of the Torrent de la Courbière. Beautiful mountain views and magnificent undergrowth.

Starting from the Contrac car park in Rabat-les-Trois-Seigneurs, this is an accessible circular route with beautiful sights along the way.After the first climb, you will reach the architectural structure "Le Monolithe", created by students from the Toulouse School of Architecture: an unusual seat with a view over the valley. Then enjoy the panorama from the ruins of the ancient Cathar castle of La Roche Ronde, before finally descending past the Calamès Cave and its climbing site.

An easy hike between Rabat-les-Trois-Seigneurs and Bédeilhac offering a beautiful view of the valley from the Roche Ronde.

A beautiful two-day route through magnificent mountain scenery. Thirteen lakes are on the itinerary, with the added bonus of a short chairlift ride on the second day. Enough to satisfy even the most demanding hikers.

A magnificent hike in the upper Ariège in a spectacular setting. On the agenda for the day are the Etangs du Picot and the two Etangs Fourcat, which quickly make you forget the intense effort required during the climb.

A beautiful hike in the Mounicou Valley (Soulcem) that invites you to contemplate four little-visited lakes.The goal of the day is to discover the four Picot lakes! While the first two are rather unremarkable, thethird andfourth have a charm that strikes you as soon as you see them and rewards you for your efforts.

This gentle peak is not notable for its modest altitude but nevertheless offers a superb vantage point over the Trois Seigneurs massif, the Montagne de Tabe and far beyond. After an initial section through a beautiful beech forest, the long climb up the broad grassy ridge allows you to fully enjoy the scenery. However, you’ll need patience and perseverance, as the slope is steep from start to finish with very little respite, except at the Col de Carlong.

A walk starting from Tarascon-sur-Ariège that will take you to Junac, passing through the small village of Alliat and overlooking the village of Niaux.

This circuit provides access to the dry stone hamlet of Les Orris. It is a magnificent pastoral village, used for summer grazing, set in lush green surroundings opposite the Pic des Trois Seigneurs. The hamlet of Les Goutets was used from the 1800s until around 1950.

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.