The 8 most beautiful hiking tours in Haute-Garonne

From the summits of the Pyrenees to the south, to the Toulouse plain to the north, the Haute-Garonne has a territory of great diversity from the point of view of the landscapes. Add to this the broad climate of southern France, and you get the ideal conditions to hike in Haute-Garonne!

This particular geography is due to the route of the department’s borders, which follows the course of the Garonne: the Pyrenees chain that bares the horizon to the south acts as a magnet on many hikers, and it is well on the side of the mountains that we travel some of the most beautiful hikes of Haute-Garonne.

However, the hilly countryside in the plain, sprinkled with forests, hills exposed to the sun and villages, will also be able to draw the attention of walkers, for a selection of varied hikers, like the department itself.

1. Lake Oô

On the Pyrenees side, this hike in Haute-Garonne is a must for more than one title. For its landscapes in the first time, because Lake Oô and its waterfall make up an unforgettable setting, but also for its accessibility, which is not always the case in the mountains!

A well traced and frequented path, shaded overall, with just what it takes to deniverate positive to feel its legs at the end of the day. Take the time to take a break at the edge of Lake Oô, to eat and soak up the atmosphere, before going back through the same path.

For hikers looking for a more sporty walk, you can do the trick by climbing from Lake Oô to the Espingo Pass, steep and much more difficult, for the splendid view of Lake Espingo, before returning to your steps.

2. The gouff of Hell

This swelling in scary name is close to Bagnères-de-Luchon , a starting point of many beautiful hikes from Haute-Garonne. Here, hell quickly becomes a paradise for hikers who marvel at the waterfalls and the swelling of Hell, all in the shade of the woods: the frame is quite exceptional.

A path that is more accessible to all, without major difficulty, except for some slippery passages... mandatory mountain walking shoes!

3. The peak of the Escalette

The ancient village of Boutx, nestled at the bottom of its valley, offers several beautiful hikes in Haute-Garonne. Among these, the peak of the Escalette is particularly appreciated for its accessible side, and for the breathtaking panorama on the summits of the Pyrenees.

Several variants exist, to adapt according to your level: from the collar of Menté, to you to see once arrived at the Pas de l’Âne, if you close the loop, as it is said, or make the hook up to the peak of Cagire for a more serious accumulated denial.

4. Pech David and the Olppidum of Cluzet

This very pretty hike of Haute-Garonne is not taking place this time in the mountains, but just a few steps away Toulouse . The itinerary begins on the hill of Pech David (base of leisure), from which there is a beautiful view of the Rose City, then runs through a slightly hilly terrain, overlooking the Garonne, to the Gaulish Oppidum of Cluzet, to visit on the way.

The loop then leads you through Pouvourville before reaching its starting point. An easy and friendly ride, to stretch your legs without getting away from Toulouse.

5. The Port of Venasque

Here is one of the most beautiful hikes in Haute-Garonne, but also all the Pyrenees for some! Close to the Spanish border, the itinerary begins at the Hospice de France (Bagnères-de-Luchon), where a long ascent begins through beautiful high mountain landscapes, before descending to the Venasque refuge and its lakes...

An idyllic frame, before the last stage, the Port of Venasque, this cross-border pass from which opens a breathtaking view of the summit of the Aneto (3,404 m), in Spain . A demanding hike with great positive denial for the good walkers!

6. The loop of Notre-Dame des Bois

Back in the hilly landscapes of Lauragais, not far from Toulouse, for this hike in Haute-Garonne in the country spirit. Generally speaking, a very nice walk from Clermont-le-Fort, known as one of the most beautiful villages in the department: to visit at the start, or at the finish.

The buckle route is well marked, refreshing, offering beautiful views of the region on the way, with always in the distance, the Pyrenees chain. A beautiful rando with no notable difficulty, long enough to occupy a big half day.

7. Hiking in forest of Buzet

A hike in Haute-Garonne on the side of Buzet-sur-Tarn, known for its forest, not to be confused with Buzet-sur-Baïze, known for its wines...

Near Toulouse, the forest of Buzet is known as the green lung of the city, a beautiful protected area with an interesting biodiversity, where several walking routes are available to you. The terrain is flat, the paths in the shade of trees, for an easy exit adaptable to all levels.

8. Lake Green

In the southern edges of the department, this other beautiful hike in Haute-Garonne is aimed at an informed audience! Achieving the Green Lake, named for the characteristic color of its waters, requires a sustained effort in terms of kilometers to be covered and accumulated denivele... Enjoy well-equipped (shoes, sticks), for the few technical passages to be crossed.

Mountain lakes, forests, high pastures and pyrenean summits will be the rewards of a beautiful mountain day!