I propose a snowshoe or après-ski hike, accessible to all, even children (equipped of course), that will let you discover the beauty of the Lac de l’Oule in winter and snowy landscapes.
By Jean-Michel Loric
Vignec télécabine starting point of the tour
Lac de l’Oule with its refuge and restaurant is accessible in winter by ski lift from Espiaube.
If you’re a skier, no problem, your lift pass gets you there.
If you’re a pedestrian, you’ll need to get a pedestrian pass from the Altiservice ticket offices.
In 45 minutes and 3 changes, or 4 if you leave from the village, of lifts, you’ll arrive in this enchanting place located at the foot of the Néouvielle Nature Reserve.
A lovely panorama during the journey
The gondola lift takes you from the parking area on the Vignec side to the Pla d’Adet at an altitude of 1,700 meters. From this point, you have two options. You can take the Pla d’Adet / Espiaube shuttle bus, which takes around ten minutes, or if you’re a keen sportsman and already want to walk: the 3 km cabane trail is for you. But be sure to check with the lift company before you take it. It may be closed due to avalanche risk. Once you’ve reached Espiaube (Saint-Lary 1,900), hop on the gondola lift, then take the TOURETTE chairlift and the LAC chairlift and you’ll discover the charming refuge du lac de l’Oule on the edge of the lake, where you can enjoy a coffee, lunch on the terrace or stay overnight.
