The Lakes Route

On the road to one of the "Grands Sites Occitanie" (Great Sites of Occitania)

Despite the difficulty of the route, you can still admire the magnificent gorges or forests of hooked pines and rhododendrons in bloom in spring.

On the road to the Tour de France

This route starts in Saint-Lary and takes you all the way to Lac d’Aubert. It will allow you to discover the Néouvielle Reserve and its splendid string of Pyrenean lakes. Between the 10th and 12th kilometers, the gradient is very steep at 15%.

It’s also possible to take a slightly shorter but equally physical route to Lac de Cap de Long, branching off at Lac d’Orédon.

Identity sheet

Start altitude: 822 m
End altitude: 2,168 m
Cumulative positive ascent: 1,974 m
Distance: 25.2 km
Average gradient: 8%
Level: difficult

The route
The profile
Good to know

The route is punctuated by a succession of switchbacks where you may encounter herds of cows or sheep.

Access restrictions for motor vehicles are in place from Lac d’Orédon in the summer period to the upper lakes which will allow you to pedal in peace.

Don’t forget the camera: nature offers an exceptional spectacle.

Preparing for the climb

The climb starts at an altitude of 830 m with an average gradient of 8%. Prepare yourself as the gradient rises to 15% towards 1700 m over a total of 25.2 km, ending at 2207 m or 1377 m of ascent. Allow around 3 hours for the climb.

The climb is very irregular. It’s only after the first ten kilometers that the beauty of the scenery will help you forget the effort.
Once you’re at the top, it’s magnificent! First Lac d’Aumar, then Lac d’Aubert 1 km further downhill.

Hang on tight, one of our region’s most beautiful sites awaits you at the summit!