Lake Bethmale in Couserans, a paradise for walkers and fishermen

In the heart of the Pyrenees Ariégeoises Regional Natural Park, the Couserans and its 18 valleys constitute a vast territory shared between the high mountains, the green valleys and the foothills, dominated by the 2838 meters of the " Lord of the Couserans ", Mont Valier. In this spectacular natural setting, Lake Bethmale melts our hearts by offering us its own of a majestic emerald color. Nestled in its green setting, this heavenly site is popular with walkers, fishing enthusiasts, families, photographers, dreamers and epicureans in search of serenity and relaxation. Unique in Ariège, it guarantees a total change of scenery in all seasons!

Lake Bethmale: jewel of Couserans in Ariège

What a beautiful postcard setting! At an altitude of 1074m, Lake Bethmale is a true wonder of nature with its crystal clear emerald waters and its deciduous forest.

To reach it from Castillon-en-Couserans, you have to go to Bordes-sur-Lez and turn left towards the Bethmale valley and the Col de la Core. A large free car park awaits visitors to park their vehicles before reaching the lake located a few dozen meters away on foot. Along three large pools, a wooden pontoon makes it easy to reach the lake, making it accessible to people with reduced mobility and strollers. This path invites us into the exceptional setting of the lake. When arriving on the banks, the light and the play of lake reflections with the forest are captivating.

A mystical legend and a true curiosity of nature

The underground source of the lake comes from the depths

We are immediately surprised by its calm and clear waters, as well as by the silence that reigns there. Here, the lake is not fed by a river, nor by a torrent. However, near the parking lot, the waterfall that flows from the lake testifies to a strong flow of water.

A place to indulge in contemplation

Some places give off something special, between energy and wonder. Lake Bethmale is one of those places that is ideal for strolling, relaxing with family, as a couple or with friends. Wherever you look, you are inevitably drawn to the Pyrenees mountains, its peaks and summits.

Although swimming and water sports are prohibited in the waters of Lake Bethmale to protect the fish and its unique ecosystem, this natural body of water offers a wide range of activities and simple pleasures : take the time to stroll along its banks planted with beech trees, sit down to contemplate what surrounds us, picnic, stroll, read in the shade of a tree, set up your hammock, observe the aquatic fauna and flora, admire its incredible reflections and its sumptuous palette of colors ranging from turquoise blue to emerald green.

A shaded footpath runs around the lake and provides access to many other marked hiking trails to enjoy the joys of walking and fully savor this magnificent setting (starting point of the GR10). Everyone at their own pace, respecting nature.

A true corner of paradise for fishing enthusiasts

Who is not tempted to hang a bait on the hook and wait patiently for a beautiful trout to be caught in the trap? Between May and October, Lake Bethmale offers a tourist fishing route in the 1st category  for the greatest pleasure of fishermen of all ages. Managed by the passionate volunteers of the APPMA (Approved Association for Fishing and Protection of the Aquatic Environment), the lake is famous for its salmonids : brown trout, rainbow trout and brook trout. Bringing together around thirty amateur fishermen and nature lovers, this association ensures the maintenance of the lake and the annual supply of fry that grow in the pure waters of the fattening ponds at the entrance to the lake. In total, more than 3,000 kg of rainbow trout, 550 kg of brown trout and 550 kg of brook trout are purchased each year from the Saurat fish farm to be released into the lake once mature.

The excellent water quality and the abundance of shrimp, insects, snails and tadpoles provide perfect living conditions for these fish, which naturally feed on this biotope throughout their growth.

The lake is monitored by fishing wardens who patrol it and offer equipment for hire from the ONF cabin on the left bank. Seasoned fishermen can of course bring their own equipment and pay for a day fishing permit from the fishing warden. A fishing course is available for children to tease the fish. Last year, no fewer than 2,600 fishermen enjoyed the pleasures of fishing and 900 children discovered this activity in harmony with nature!

(see conditions and regulations for fishing at Lake Bethmale below)

A magnificent place to preserve

This beautiful place has its rules that must be known and respected to preserve its unique environment. Camping, fires and swimming are prohibited. Our animal friends are not allowed to swim either.

Two stone barbecues are located at the two entrances to the lake for grilling, tables and benches discreetly scattered in the forest for enjoying your picnic.

On the edge of the lake, the National Forestry Office makes its lodge available to the AAPPMA (Approved Association for Fishing and Protection of the Aquatic Environment) between May and October for fishing activities. During the rest of the year, this lodge remains open and accessible to all, not to sleep there but to take shelter in case of bad weather and to allow hikers to make a wood fire.

Contacts:

• AAPPAM: Information on Facebook “Fishing at Lake Bethmale” or on 0561961133
• Castillon en Couserans Tourist Office: 0561967264

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Report and photos by Lesley Williamson for the Toulouse Pyrénées Guide