The 5 most beautiful hikes to go to Lake Ou

What if you go to the discovery of Lake Oô? Thanks to our guide, the best hiking routes in Lake Oô will have no secret for you!

At the same time very easy to access and rather spectacular, Lake Oô is a well-known place for hikers... And also lovers of crosswords, thanks to his funny name! Located in Haute-Garonne, near Bagnères-de-Luchon Lake Oô is an artificial lake that feeds a hydroelectric power plant. But above all, it is a peaceful place, nestled in the hollow of the mountains.

They form a beautiful setting of greenery in the summer, which stands out with a fine snow coat in winter. Therefore, as you will have understood, the landscape is worth a look at all seasons! And this, especially thanks to the great waterfall that plunges into the tranquil waters of the lake.

To enjoy the magic of the place, follow the guide! Here are the best hikes around Lake Oô.

1. The path of Lake Oô

Here is the most unmissable walking route near Lake Oô! You'll need about an hour to reach the lake. The trail, mainly forest, is shaded, and therefore very pleasant in summer. On arrival you can enjoy the beautiful terrace of the refuge-inn to admire the view and to restore you. If you have to prepare to climb a little bit, the path is generally easy. There are many families, and even a number of leashed dogs!

This is the only small flat of this hiking route to Lake Oô: it is very popular, especially in the summer. So, don’t hesitate to borrow it outside peak or off-season hours. Winter can be a good option, provided you find out, because the landscape is quite magical when it is snowy. Finally, a good alternative to get away from the crowd is to extend the hike beyond Lake Oô.

2. Lake Oô and the Espingo Sanctuary

Here is a nice way to prolong the previous itinerary, for a richer but also quieter experience. After taking the path to Lake Oô, the hike will take you to the Espingo refuge. From there you will enjoy a magical view of the Espingo Lake Circus!

This return trip is a little longer and more difficult than the previous one, with a steep slope at the end. But nothing but for this panorama, the game is clearly worth the candle. With mountains and estives to lose sight, you will immerse yourself completely in this beautiful corner of the Pyrenees.

3. Pic des Spijeoles via Lac d’Oô

If you are one of the seasoned hikers, then this hike by Lake Oô will be perfect for you! Note, however, that being long and difficult, it is reserved for trained and early adventurers, and practicable only in the summer. You will begin by taking over the steps previously mentioned by Lake Oô first and the Espingo refuge afterwards. But you won't stop in such a good way! Indeed, you will continue for several kilometers with a good denial to reach the Spijeole peak. By the way, you will follow the pretty Saussat Lake.

For the ascent of the peak, let yourself be guided by the cairns, these stone mounds, which mark the itinerary. After a landscape of pastures and large rounded rocks, you will end with a steep climb in a chimney of rocky bulwarks. Don't let yourself be discouraged by this technical passage. First, you will admire the beautiful iced lake of the port of Oô.

Especially, at the top of the peak, at 3,065 meters above sea level, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the region. Indeed, you can admire the surrounding summits, but also the Toulouse plain and the Garonne valley. In short, you will feel almost at the top of the world!

4. Granges d’Astau and Tussé de Montarque

This difficult route takes about the route of the previous hike. Indeed, it is only on the last part that the two paths differ. Once you pass Saussat Lake, you'll soon find yourself at an intersection. Instead of going to the west and the Spijeoles peak, you will cross to the east to the Tussé de Montarque.

From there, the view of the iced lake and its circus is truly spectacular! On the way, you will also admire the great lake of the Portillon and can relax at the nearby refuge.

5. From Lake Oô to Bagnères-de-Luchon (GR stage10)

For many hikers, the passage to Lake Oô is a highlight of GR10. This large crossing of the Pyrenees, which takes 45 to 60 days, is not within the reach of all. But don't worry: we offer you here to focus on one step. And more specifically, the one that connects Lake Oô to Bagnères-de-Luchon. As Lake Oô is only accessible on foot, note that this hike involves bivouacing on site the day before. Indeed, a long day awaits you, with a difficult route of 20 kilometers.

But don't get me wrong: this is worth a lot. In addition to the pleasure of discovering the early morning lake of Oô, you will go through unforgettable paths. Here you will be in total immersion in a high mountain atmosphere. Growing a summit after the other, you will discover magnificent views of the neighboring mountains, peaks and glaciers. And if you tire on the end, the Luchon Superbagnères cable car can avoid a long descent.

With these five hikes around Lake Oô, we have offered you five different ways to discover a must-see place. So, whatever your level, motivation and time you have, you should find the perfect itinerary.