Wild immersion and wildlife of the Pyrenees on a hike
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationPyrenees / Hautes-Pyrénées
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AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions20.33 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
French
In a few words
Embark on a multi-day hike in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées , amidst the unspoiled landscapes of Cauterets . Between high-altitude lakes , granite plateaus and deep forests , this route immerses you in wild and authentic nature.
Accompanied by a wildlife specialist , you will learn to observe the iconic mountain species: marmots , chamois , ibex , and the elusive dipper . Each day combines hiking , nature observation , and contemplative breaks facing exceptional panoramas.
The route connects must-see sites such as Lake Ilhéou , the Marcadau Valley, and the majestic Lake Gaube , overlooked by the Vignemale . Nights spent in mountain huts enhance this immersive experience, bringing you closer to nature.
A unique experience to experience the mountains differently, between discovery , sharing and connection to nature .
The highlights
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The wild valleys of Cauterets, nestled between lakes, plateaus and peaks
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Learn to read the terrain and spot wildlife with an expert guide
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Observe marmots, chamois and ibex in their natural habitat
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
- You can walk 4 to 6 hours a day
- You can do between 400 and 700m of positive elevation gain
- Are you comfortable carrying a daypack (approximately 8kg)?
- You'll be traversing summer pastures, rocky slopes, and forest trails.
- Do you want to experience a gentle, nature-focused adventure, punctuated by animal tracks and the spectacular landscapes of the Pyrenees?
In figures
Hiking
- Average distance/day: 11 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 506 m
- Average daily descent: 611 m
Management
English
French
I discovered the mountains at the age of thirteen when my parents moved to the Hautes-Alpes. It was a real turning point! A dream took root in my mind: to share the mountains with others while preserving them. I achieved my most cherished dream by earning my mountain guide certification. Based in the Hautes-Pyrénées since 2016, I share unique moments in the heart of nature. Through my photography, I raise awareness of the fragility of our world. My work allows me to represent the mountains in their most magnificent forms.
Program
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Day 1
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 4 km
- Positive elevation gain 630 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Meet in the morning in Lourdes, then transfer to Cauterets. After a briefing, departure for a first hike in the Ilhéou valley.
The trail crosses alpine pastures and grassy slopes ideal for wildlife observation: marmots near their burrows, birds of prey in flight. The gradual ascent leads to a high-altitude lake in an open, rocky setting.
Arrival at the Ilhéou refuge at the end of the day, dinner and discussion of the first observations.
Day 1 -
Day 2
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 629 m
- Negative elevation 758 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From the refuge, the ascent leads to the Col de la Haugade. The terrain alternates between grassy slopes and rocky areas, favorable for observing chamois and ibex.
After the pass, descend towards the Marcadau valley alongside a glacial lake. The path becomes gentler as it winds through mountain pines.
Arrival at the refuge located on a high-altitude plateau rich in wildlife. Overnight stay in this unspoiled setting.
Day 2 -
Day 3
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 850 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day takes place in a more isolated valley, far from the frequented trails.
The first grassy areas are suitable for marmots, while the more mineral sectors offer chances to observe chamois and ibex.
Gradual return to the Marcadau valley, following the stream between forests and wetlands. Settling into the refuge for the last night.
Day 3 -
Day 4
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 264 m
- Negative elevation 836 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Departure towards the Gaube valley via a forest path. Arrival at the Gaube lake, dominated by the Vignemale, for a contemplative break and some observations.
The descent continues towards the Pont d'Espagne, then along the waterfall trail to Cauterets. This area is ideal for observing the dipper.
Return to Lourdes at the end of the day and end of the stay.
Day 4
Note
Walking and activity times are given as a guide and may vary depending on the weather and the pace of the group.
Accommodation
Located at an altitude of 1,988 meters in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, the Ilhéou refuge overlooks the magnificent lake of the same name. Accessible on foot from the Cauterets valley, it offers a true immersion in the mountains, far from the hustle and bustle of the valley. With its dormitories and simple, friendly atmosphere, it's a perfect place to fully enjoy the wild setting of the Ilhéou valley. The refuge has toilets and sinks and offers meals and drinks during its staffed season.
Perched at an altitude of 1,865 meters , the Wallon-Marcadau refuge lies in the heart of one of Cauterets' most iconic valleys, within the Pyrenees National Park. The approach from Pont d'Espagne follows the Gave du Marcadau river, crosses the Clot and Cayan plateaus, and offers stunning views of mountain pines and towering peaks. Completely renovated, the refuge provides comfortable dormitories and a restaurant. It's an ideal base for exploring the area's many lakes and summits.
At an altitude of 1,522 meters , the Clot refuge is nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, at the confluence of the Gaube and Marcadau valleys, right next to the Pont d'Espagne. Accessible in just a twenty-minute walk from the Pont d'Espagne car park, it provides an ideal gateway to the high mountain landscapes of Cauterets. The refuge offers shared dormitories for hikers and serves meals on-site, featuring homemade cuisine that emphasizes fresh, local produce. From the terrace, you can fully appreciate the mountain atmosphere of the site.
Access
Go to the starting point
Here are the correspondences:
- Departure station > Montparnasse station (TGV INOUI 8598)
- Montparnasse Station > Lourdes Station (5 hours by train from Paris)
It is possible to park on site and leave your car there for the duration of your stay.
Price details
The price includes
- The trip was led by Hadrien, a local guide in the Pyrenees with a passion for wildlife and photography.
- Accommodation in warm and comfortable mountain huts in the heart of the mountains
- Full board from dinner on Day 1 to picnic lunch on Day 4
- Round-trip transfer from Lourdes train station
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point (Lourdes train station)
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Day 1 picnic
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Additional night before the stay : CHF105.20 / person
- Additional night after the stay : CHF105.20 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
