Intermediate Tour des Lacs de Cauterets

The journey begins gently from the lively streets of Cauterets and quickly slips into a greener, quieter world. Forest paths, flowing water and a steady sense of ascent mark the beginning. It feels approachable, but the mountains make it clear you are leaving the valley behind.

The trail follows the Gave de Cambasque, passing the Gave de Cambasque waterfall and higher viewpoints over the Ilhéou waterfalls. As the path climbs, trees thin out and open slopes appear. Near Black Lake, the scenery turns more alpine, with wider views and a feeling of space.

The refuge lies beside the calm waters of Lac d’Ilhéou, surrounded by high ground. It is a beautiful first mountain stop, where the day ends quietly with reflections on the lake and the peaks above.

This is a varied and rewarding mountain day, with a real sense of movement through changing landscapes. From the first steps, the terrain feels more open and the views stretch further with every climb.

A steady ascent leads to the Col de Haugade Supérieur, where the world suddenly opens up. The path then weaves past the Embarrat Lakes, Lac du Pourtet and Lake Nère, each with its own colour and mood. Ancient pine trees mark the transition back into forest, adding shade and texture to the route.

The refuge sits peacefully in the Marcadau valley, surrounded by grass, water and wide skies. It is a welcoming place to rest, with the feeling of being properly settled in the mountains.

This final walk feels like a gentle transition out of the mountains. Leaving the wide Marcadau valley behind, the route gradually leads you back toward lower ground.

The path follows the Marcadau plateau with an easy, mostly descending line. Meadows, streams and open slopes define the first part, before forest slowly takes over. Now and then, the peaks behind you remain visible, a quiet reminder of the days spent higher up.

Arrival in Cauterets feels lively and familiar. Flowing water, cafés and village life mark a relaxed end to the journey, closing the loop in a natural and satisfying way.