Well-guided hikes!

Meet Olivier Berthauld, a regular on hikes accompanied by an AMC

But what exactly is an AMC? They're a mountain guide, who helps you hike safely. They also have extensive knowledge of the area, its wildlife, and give you plenty of helpful advice during your outing.

What kind of “tourist” are you?

I find that the term "tourist" doesn't suit me; I really like hiking or cycling, venturing into unfamiliar regions, camping, sleeping in cabins, swimming in torrents...

What types of accompanied outings have you already done?

For almost 10 years, I have been hiking regularly with Simon, an outstanding mountain guide if ever there was one. I have mainly done two types of outings:

• About four days for two or three people, with nights in a cabin or tent;
• Day trip with a group, organized by Simon. Snowshoeing in winter, hiking in summer.

Why do you choose to go with a mountain guide? What does it bring you?

There are many benefits!

• First of all, feeling safe, knowing that the guide knows my level and adapts the hike accordingly;
• Secondly, the guide takes me off the beaten track, he knows the mountains, can find his way around easily even if the region is unknown to him, knows how to find springs, cabins to sleep in, places to pitch the tent;
• Third, he shares his extensive knowledge of geology, flora and fauna; he knows how to spot wild animals;
• Fourth, he knows what equipment to bring (material or supplies);
• Finally, the guide, at least in my case, has become a true friend with whom I feel confident and with whom we share a lot in the evening by the fire; moreover, he is a remarkable storyteller.

What will be your next discovery in Couserans?

I have no idea, it's the guide who decides, often at the last minute, taking into account the weather, the mood of the day...

What hikes did you prefer in Couserans?

I really liked the Paths of Freedom, the Subra cabin, the Aulus-les-Bains sector...

Do you have an experience you will never forget from a guided outing?

The bivouac in November where we pitched the tent on the snow (see photo!).

To book your outing with our mountain guides, click here!