Top 11 Lakes around Esquièze-Sère

For an easily accessible option, Lake Isaby on the heights of Hautacam is perfect after a short walk. It's also welcoming for families and allows dogs.

Yes, Lac Dets Coubous, situated at 2,041 meters, features an open, un-guarded refuge that can comfortably sleep 4-5 people. Another option is Lake Orédon, which has a refuge on its shores welcoming guests from February to October for high-altitude stays.

Both Lake Isaby and Lourdes Lake are excellent for fishing. Lourdes Lake, a 2nd category lake, is particularly popular for carp, roach, tench, pike, zander, perch, and black bass, even offering a night carp fishing trail. The artificial Lake of Genos-Loudenvielle also offers fishing opportunities.

The Blue Lake of Lesponne, at 1,947 meters, provides great views of the valley below. Lac Dets Coubous offers a splendid panorama of the Néouvielle reserve. Additionally, Aubert and Aumar Lakes provide clear views of neighboring peaks like Madamète.

Lake of Genos-Loudenvielle is a hub for relaxation and family activities, featuring a leisure center for pedal boating and canoeing. Lake Especières, easily accessible in summer, is known for its wild animals, particularly marmots, which can be a great motivator for younger hikers.

Near Lourdes Lake, you can explore a peat bog on its west side, a Natura 2000 classified site since 2006, housing rare fauna and flora like the false ringlet butterfly and the carnivorous sundew plant. Les Laquettes, a series of small Pyrenean lakes, are nestled between two mountain slopes, characterized by gentians and transparent waters, accessible via a rocky path with waterfalls and hooked pines.

The region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Luz-Saint-Sauveur – Napoleon Bridge loop from Esquièze-Sère' or the 'Bastan River – Glère Refuge loop from Esquièze-Sère'. For mountain hikes, consider routes like 'Lac det Mail – Lac de la Glère loop from Barèges'. Cycling enthusiasts can explore challenging routes like the 'Soulor Pass – Aubisque Pass loop from Esquièze-Sère'. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Esquièze-Sère, Mountain Hikes around Esquièze-Sère, and Cycling around Esquièze-Sère guides.

Many lakes in the region are excellent for hiking. Lake det Mail is part of a fantastic day tour route from the Refuge de Glere to the summit of the Touron de Neouvielle. Gaube Lake, facing the majestic Vignemale, is an iconic destination easily reachable by about an hour's walk from Cauterets.

Lake Orédon, considered a gateway to the Néouvielle nature reserve, provides a magical setting for relaxation amidst high Pyrenean mountains with small streams, turquoise waters, and pine forests. Lac d'Estagnol, nestled at the foot of the Aubert and Mounicot hillocks, also offers beautiful views.

While many lakes require hiking, Gloriettes Lake is accessible by car in the summer, offering a pleasant walk with the stunning Cirque d'Estaubé as a backdrop.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the tranquility of the high-altitude lakes. Many appreciate the opportunities for hiking, the clear waters, and the chance to encounter local wildlife like marmots. The presence of refuges and accessible options for families and dogs also adds to the positive experience.