Top 20 Lakes around Foix
Best lakes around Foix are located in the Ariège department of the French Pyrenees. This region features a diverse landscape with numerous lakes, offering settings from tranquil spots for relaxation to high-altitude treks. Visitors can explore a variety of natural environments, each providing distinct features and activities. The area is known for its mountainous terrain and rich natural surroundings.
Best lakes around Foix
- The most popular lakes is En Beys Refuge, a restaurant that overlooks a series of ponds…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
En Beys Refuge
Highlight • Restaurant
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Izourt Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Pinet Refuge
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Étang Fourcat and Refuge de l'Étang Fourcat
Highlight • Lake
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Comte Lake
Highlight • Lake
In the heart of a green valley, the lake is like a diamond …
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Lake Campauleil
Highlight • Lake
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Naguille Lake
Highlight • Lake
Now in …
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Estats Pond
Highlight • Lake
Nestled in a beautiful rocky valley, it suggests a peaceful break between the refuge and the border peaks.
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Estagnol Pond
Highlight • Lake
Headed by the Mourgouillou hut, the pond is an ideal resting place, both for the animals in the summer …
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Étang d'Arbu
Highlight • Lake
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Popular around Foix
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Tips from the Community
A very beautiful mountain lake which offers a beautiful view of the Bassiès massif!
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Photogenic little lake on the ascent to the famous peaks. From here, two trail options diverge. The one on the right, in the direction of ascent, isn't any more difficult, although it appears that way on the map.
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Very beautiful and photogenic lakes in a high valley, accessible only by long hikes/climbing. Therefore, they are not as crowded as the reservoir in the valley below. You'll often need your hands on the descent from the eponymous peak, Pic d'Étang Fourcat.
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Conveniently located hut for those who want to take the technically easiest, but with 2,000 meters of elevation gain, longest climb from the parking lot at L'Artigue to the peaks of Pic du Montcalm, Pica d'Estats, and Pic de Sotllo. The hut was already closed when I climbed in mid-October, but a winter room with approximately 14 beds was open. There's a cash register at the entrance, charging €8 per night.
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"The house by the lake..." Beautifully situated hut on the ascent path from the L'Artigue parking lot to several peaks, including Pic du Montcalm and Pica d'Estats (I also included the somewhat more difficult Pic de Sotllo, hence my photos here as a "highlight" of mountain hiking). The hut was already out of service in October 2024, but there was a winter room with approximately 14 beds. A cash register awaits a deposit of €8 per night.
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Beautiful hike, easy to access. However, there is work underway on the dam (August 2023). The lake has been emptied and there are Algecos installed at the finish. Avoid for the moment.
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Pretty lake accessible from the beginning of April this year. Note that the return made by the other side is not marked but the path is obvious.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes around Foix for different activities?
The lakes around Foix offer diverse experiences. For high-altitude mountain adventures, the area around En Beys Refuge and Étang Fourcat are highly regarded. For relaxation and picnics, Lake Campauleil is a popular choice. Comte Lake is also a favorite for its serene setting in a green valley.
Which lakes are best for hiking and mountain experiences near Foix?
For challenging hikes and stunning mountain scenery, consider the area around En Beys Refuge, which is a significant stop on the GR 7 trail. The hike to Étang Fourcat, the highest guarded refuge in Ariège, offers a true high-mountain experience with breathtaking views. Izourt Pond also provides trails ranging from moderate to challenging with panoramic views.
Are there any easy lake walks or places for relaxation and picnics around Foix?
Yes, Lake Campauleil is easily accessible and an ideal spot for relaxing or enjoying a picnic with family or friends. Lac de Labarre, while not permitting swimming, is also popular for picnics and offers public barbecues and water sports equipment rentals. Lac de Bethmale is recommended for a family-friendly hike, offering a rewarding outdoor experience without extreme difficulty.
Can I swim in any of the lakes near Foix?
Plan d'Eau Mondely, located approximately 16.1 km from Foix, is the closest lake where swimming is generally allowed and features a beach area for bathers. While some high-altitude lakes like Izourt Pond might offer bathing opportunities, always check local regulations and safety conditions before entering the water.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Foix?
Absolutely. Lake Campauleil is easily accessible and perfect for family picnics. Lac de Labarre offers a leisure center with various water sports equipment for rent, including canoes and pedal boats, making it suitable for beginners and families. Lac de Bethmale is also highly recommended for a family-friendly hike.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes near Foix?
The lakes around Foix are set in the diverse landscape of the French Pyrenees. You can expect to see majestic peaks, emerald green or bright blue waters, and rich flora and fauna. High-altitude areas like En Beys Refuge and Étang Fourcat are excellent for wildlife observation, including chamois, ibex, and various raptors, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Can I find accommodation or amenities near the high-altitude lakes?
Yes, En Beys Refuge offers 70 beds and a complete catering service during the high season (late May to late September). In winter, 15 places remain freely accessible. Refuge de l'Étang Fourcat is the highest guarded refuge in Ariège, providing a true high-mountain experience. There is also a non-guarded refuge near Izourt Pond with basic amenities.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Foix?
Beyond hiking and picnicking, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging routes like the Pic de Montcalm or Pic de Tarbesou. Gravel biking and mountain biking are also popular, with guides available for trails around Foix, such as the Foix – Prat d'Albis loop or the View of Château de Lordat MTB trail. For more details, explore the Running Trails around Foix, Gravel biking around Foix, and MTB Trails around Foix guides.
What is unique about <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2831132" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Étang Fourcat</a>?
Étang Fourcat is notable for being home to the highest guarded refuge in Ariège, situated at 2445 meters. It offers a spectacular backdrop with its bright blue, heart-shaped lake, surrounded by peaks like Aspre and Tristagne. It's a key point on the Haute Route des Pyrénées (HRP) and a variant of the GR10, providing an exceptional high-mountain environment for observing wild fauna.
Is <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2271161" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Izourt Pond</a> suitable for all hikers?
Izourt Pond is a popular destination for hikers, offering trails that range from moderate loops to more challenging ascents. While some routes provide panoramic views, be aware that some sections can be strenuous. The area also holds historical significance due to a tragic avalanche during its construction in 1939, adding a unique layer to the experience.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Foix?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the variety of experiences offered. Many enjoy the tranquility of spots like Lake Campauleil for picnics, while others seek the challenge and reward of high-altitude hikes to places like En Beys Refuge and Étang Fourcat. The opportunity to observe wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views is also a major draw.
Are there any lakes near Foix that are good for fishing?
Lake Campauleil, created by a dam in 1941, is often described as a small paradise for fishermen. Additionally, fishing is permitted in the well-stocked waters around the Refuge d'En Beys ponds, offering opportunities for anglers in a high-mountain setting.
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