45 – VAL D’ESQUIERRY

Steps

Step 1

Just before the Granges d'Astau car park, cross the Astau bridge to reach the other bank. Follow the red and white markings of the GR10. Be careful to close the gate behind you to keep livestock out. Once you start climbing, the path is well marked and steady.

Step 2

You will enter a beech forest. The trail is steep for 400 metres before leaving the forest and arriving at the Esquierry hut (1,657 metres).

Step 3

You are now in an open area where you can see gentians, asphodels and other flowers, as well as marmots. The climb to the Couret d'Esquierry (2,131 m) is steep, but once you reach the top, the view is breathtaking!

Step 4

Return via the same route.