The 6 most beautiful hikes to do in Cauterets · Wanderlix

Would you like to explore the Hautes-Pyrénées? Discover our guide to the best hikes in the day around Cauterets!

A flagship destination of the Hautes-Pyrénées, Cauterets is both a winter sports resort and a spa. But it is also a perfect entrance door to the high summits of the Pyrenees, in all seasons! Thus, the city is an ideal drop point for lovers of high mountain and hiking. By staying in Cauterets, you will easily have access to a multitude of trails to discover the best of the Hautes-Pyrénées.

Between waterfalls and mountain lakes, green valleys, snowy peaks and steep reliefs, the region has a lot to offer. In addition to breathtaking views, it has the interest to offer a wide variety of hiking routes. So, whatever your level, you'll find beautiful tailored rides. To give you landmarks, here is our selection of the best hikes around Cauterets.

1. Lake Gaube from the bridge of Spain

This trip is probably one of the most popular hikes around Cauterets. This is not surprising, as it takes you to discover a splendid place, Gaube Lake. Nestled in the hollow of a valley, surrounded by majestic mountains, the lake offers a postcard landscape. This soothing place enjoys as much in the summer, when its waters dye on turquoise as in winter, in a snowy setting.

To reach Gaube Lake, you will take a pretty short and comfortable trail from the bridge of Spain. Due to its ease, this hike is very busy, especially in the summer. Therefore, keep in mind that different options allow you to prolong the ride, to enjoy a wilder nature.

2. Trail of the waterfalls of the bridge of Spain

This hike is also a starting point for the bridge of Spain, a few kilometres from the city centre of Cauterets. However, it takes a different route: the path of the cascades. As his name suggests, this beautiful trail will make you discover no less than six cascades!

You will wind along a torrent sometimes vivid, sometimes peaceful, in the shadow of the large trees. This accessible and moderately crowded hike is particularly beautiful in the autumn, when trees grow. It will reveal another face of the Pyrenees where water, rock and trees make up the landscape. Do not forget to plan good shoes to walk easily in the rocks.

3. Lake Estom

Between lakes and rivers, your heart swings? It's fine: this route mixes both. Indeed, you will follow the path of a river, the Gave de Lutour, in the hollow of a valley encased. Through this pleasant walk, beautiful landscapes will offer you.

At the end of the road, after a steeper passage, you will be rewarded with your efforts by the beautiful lake of Estom. The less frying ones may even have a head! Another option is to make a stop at La Fruitière, a small inn in the middle of nature. Because this is what makes the magic of this hike: you are in perfect immersion in a preserved nature.

4. Lake Ilhéou

You will have understood it, the surroundings of Cauterets are full of beautiful lakes to be discovered on hikes. But among them, the lake of Ilhéou, nicknamed “blue lake” is one of the most spectacular. Indeed, this great lake stretches in length between mountain peaks and turquoise hues, making the landscape magical! We therefore warmly recommend this hike quite sporty. And not only to make bad play of words around the name of the lake!

For the most adventurers, it is possible to extend the ride to the top of the peak of Nets, to discover a grandiose panorama. Ascension to the lake can also be a great winter experience, provided you are well prepared. As for the less trained people, it will be able to climb to the cable car to make the descent on foot only.

5. The Marcadau valley and the lakes of the Embarrats

This high mountain hike is long and difficult, so reserved for seasoned hikers. But it will make you a splendid circuit where you will imbue yourself with varied landscapes. Between grandiose circus and glacial valleys, you will admire unforgettable panoramas.

By discovering the Marcadau valley, you will quickly understand why it is sometimes called "French Canada". You will also follow several lakes and torrents so typical of the region. If you have the energy, this hike in the vicinity of Cauterets is a condensed of the best of the Hautes-Pyrénées.

6. The Cabaliros peak

To finish this overview of the best hikes around Cauterets, we suggest you explore the Cabaliros peak. At the start of Cauterets, the rise of the peak by its south side is a sporting hike with a major denive and mileage. Its multiple laces will test your calves!

You will sometimes walk in the woods, sometimes in green estives, sometimes on the ridges. By the way, you will approach several streams and see typical stone barns. Once you’re at the top, you’ll enjoy a beautiful 360° panorama, which will help you decrypt. Finally, before the return, the most motivated will be able to make a hook by the beautiful lake of Anapéou and greet its batracians...

To hike around Cauterets, the options are not missing! From the health walk to the long trekkings, you will only have the embarrassment of choice. But whatever the itinerary you will take, you will enjoy breathtaking landscapes and will certainly cross majestic lakes.