Hike to Lake Gaube

It is one of the best-known lakes in the Pyrenees. With its distinctive blue waters, spectacular reflections and the Vignemale massif in the background, Lake Gaube is a must-see for hikers in the Hautes-Pyrénées. The Pont d’Espagne, the starting point for this hike, is less than 40 kilometres from Lourdes. Suitable for everyone, Lake Gaube is sure to delight families with children as well as contemplative walkers.

A must-do hike the Pyrenees

Lake Gaube is accessible from the Pont d’Espagne in Cauterets; it is a legendary lake in the Pyrenees, thanks to its idyllic setting and breathtaking views. You can choose to go hiking on your own, following the signposts for the Lac de Gaube route, or you can opt to hire a qualified guide to discover the anecdotes and stories set in this incredible location.

View of Lake Gaube above Cauterets in the Hautes-Pyrénées — ©
OT Cauterets

This easy walk allows everyone to explore the mountain in unspoilt natural surroundings without any risk, and to reach the lake having completed the day’s mission.

Alternatively, if you prefer, you can choose to take the chairlift up – you’ll then only have a 15-minute walk to complete. Dogs are only permitted on the site via the chairlift. On the way up, if you’re lucky, you’ll simply need to look around to spot the flora and fauna of the Pyrenees, such as marmots, which are characteristic of the region.

These memories are sure to stay with you and your family forever.

Lake De Gaube in the Cauterets-Pont d’Espagne area — ©
Lake Gaube is a must-see in the Pyrenees. Its stunning blue waters are well worth exploring. The Vignemale massif forms the backdrop.
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Matthieu Pinaud

A stroll along the shores of Lake Gaube — ©
Lake Gaube is a lake ideal for family walks. For those who are less fit, it can be reached from the Pont d’Espagne via a chairlift.
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©m. Pinaud Cauterets.com

Getting to Cauterets without his car

EXCURSION DU SAMEDI, DUO GAGNANT GAVARNIE - PONT D'ESPAGNE

Driving and parking in Lourdes

Why go on a hike to Lake Gaube

Because it’s one of the Pyrenees’ must-see attractions. For the atmosphere there, we recommend watching the sunrise over the peaks of the Vignemale whilst waiting for the sun’s rays to flood the lake, revealing its perfect, intense blue…
Because the Pont d’Espagne is accessible from Lourdes without needing to take your own car: either on an organised tour or by regular bus (changing at Cauterets).

Buying sports equipment in Lourdes

Need some hiking gear? In Lourdes, theSport 2000 shopoffers a selection of items to help you get started on the trails around Lourdes.

Useful numbers

Secours

112: the emergency number throughout Europe
114: in the event of limited telephone network coverage, contact via text message is possible

Mountain rescue

PGHM Pierrefitte Nestalas: 05 62 92 71 82
Gavarnie Mountain Rescue Service (CRS): 05 62 92 48 24

Weather information

Weather forecast for Lourdes –Météo France

Prepare Your lunch break

Before setting off on your hike, pack a picnic featuring local produce. A visit to Les Halles or to our local producers’ shops will ensure you enjoy a lunch that’s 100% Pyrenees!