A hike around the Pic de Cabanatous

A hike between two seasons in the heart of the Couserans mountains.

Hi, I'm Maritchu and I have a passion, or rather two: hiking combined with photography. So I'm taking you with me on a little hike to the peaks of Couserans.

When autumn reveals its palette of shimmering colors and winter gently shows the tip of its nose, the Tour of the Pic de Cabanatous above the picturesque village of Aulus-les-Bains, offers a hiking experience as captivating as it is magical, which I particularly like. Let me explain why!  

We start at the Coumebière car park. The first steps on the trail towards the Labant pond get us going. We're already starting to see the incredible view of the Pyrenees mountain range. I take the opportunity to take a few souvenir photos.

First step of franchising!

• Labant Pond located at an altitude of 1597m. A little corner of paradise lost in the valley where I highly recommend you take a short break to contemplate all this. It promises to be a great place to see what's to come in any case.

It should be noted : In summer, it's really great to do if you want to go hiking with children.

We hit the road again. A short passage through the forest where the leaves formed a rustling carpet beneath our feet, finally emerging at the foot of the Couserans mountains. It's incredible how small we feel in the face of these vast expanses of nature. Once out of the forest, the peaks of the Couserans await us, all along our ascent. It's simply magnificent!

There remains the last climb towards the Pic de Cabanatous, which is not necessarily the easiest, to discover one of the most beautiful views of the Couserans on the ponds of Bassiès which is as follows:

I'm speechless in the face of this natural beauty. It's simply incredible! The snow surrounding the streams, like drawings, is almost unrealistic as a view. It was like witnessing a natural ballet where autumn gave way to the emerging winter.

So I take the opportunity to take out my picnic and have a little gourmet break. We're feeling pretty good, very good even.

Once well fueled, by this excellent meal but also by these landscapes, I go back down towards the Alate pond…And I think there are more surprises in store for me. It's also possible to turn back, in case of snow, by heading back towards the Labant pond. For the more experienced, you can continue your journey towards the Pic Rouge de Bassies. It's even more breathtaking, but it's best done when there's no snow.

A few minutes of walking later, here I am.

Hmm… I did well to pass by here, this pond is a real gem! I am always impressed by what this magnificent Couserans valley has to offer. The landscapes are always so majestic and make us disconnect, it's quite impressive.

It's time to head back to the car. But one thing's for sure: it's worth setting the alarm and heading out onto the Couserans trails to see these Couserans gems. I assure you!