23 – PORT DE VÉNASQUE

Steps

Step 1

The trail starts in front of the Hospice de France hostel (1,379 m). After descending a few metres, you will cross a stream and then the Penjat bridge (1,441 m). Here, leave the trail leading to the Cirque de la Glère on your right and continue straight ahead.

Step 3

A few minutes later, you pass the Vénasque refuge (2250m). A few more efforts and you'll be overlooking the Boums du Port lakes.

Step 2

The trail narrows and climbs in regular switchbacks. Higher up, you cross a ford at the ""Culet"" (1,798 m). A short break here will be very welcome. The slope becomes a little steeper but remains steady. During this climb, you cross several streams.

Step 4

A few minutes later, you will pass the Vénasque refuge (2,250 m). With a little more effort, you will be overlooking the lakes known as Boums du Vénasque.

Step 5

The switchbacks become shorter and everything around you is rock. The finish is there, unforgettable at 2,444m with a unique view of the Maladetta massif and the Pic d'Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees at 3,404m.

Step 6

The return journey is via the same route