The Lesponne Valley: a preserved jewel in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées

Just a few kilometers from Bagnères-de-Bigorre and less than 2 hours from Toulouse, the Lesponne Valley is one of the best-kept gems of the Hautes-Pyrénées. A true haven of peace, it attracts travelers in search of unspoiled nature, hiking and authenticity. Here, mountains, forests and lakes come together to offer a picture-postcard setting, whether you are a seasoned athlete or looking for a family getaway.

An authentic and preserved valley

Far from the hustle and bustle, the Lesponne Valley, carved out over the years by the Ardour de Lesponne, retains a peaceful and authentic atmosphere, where one finds the charm of Pyrenean villages. Located in the communes of Bagnères-de-Bigorre, Campan and Beaudéan, it reveals traditional stone and slate houses as well as a rich heritage. Confidential, almost secret, this enchanting valley near the Pic de Midi de Bigorre is a privileged destination for discovering the Hautes-Pyrénées, ideal for sporting escapes, nature walks and family holidays.

Iconic hikes in the heart of a green valley

A rare calm settles in the Lesponne Valley, a serenity that accompanies you on each of your hikes in this little outdoor paradise. Surrounded by breathtaking pastoral landscapes, the trails invite you to discover the beauty of the Hautes-Pyrénées with the strength of your calves.

• The Blue Lake, at an altitude of 1977 m, is a 13.6 km trail starting from Chiroulet which reveals a vast lake with an intense blue color. Allow 5.5 hours of walking to admire this natural jewel in the heart of the mountains.
  
• The Pic du Montaigu is a 9 km round trip from Mount Cérétou in the Lesponne Valley. This iconic peak is beloved by experienced hikers, offering spectacular views of the Pyrenean valleys. Allow 5.5 hours for the hike, with some significant elevation changes.
• The Magenta waterfall is A simpler route of less than 9 km that follows the Ardour River, the reward of which is the arrival at the Magenta waterfall in the heart of a preserved landscape. Allow 3 hours of walking between meadows and beech forests.
• Lake Ourrec is absolutely charming, a small, heart-shaped body of water to be discovered on a 12.5 km mountain trail. Don't be surprised to find yourself in the company of cows when you arrive; they love to graze on the summer pastures. Allow 4.5 hours of walking to admire this little gem.
• Peyrelade Lake and Cap de Labasset is a beautiful 7.6 km hike suitable for experienced walkers. Located at the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, Peyrelade Lake is worth the detour despite the elevation changes, with a surface area of 3.7 hectares of blue water. Allow 4.5 hours for the walk.

A true wild treasure, the Lesponne Valley attracts amateur and experienced hikers every year who only want one thing: to come back and walk!

A generous and lively nature

The Lesponne Valley is an incredible natural sanctuary where horses and cows graze freely, while birds of prey spread their wings between the peaks. Keep your eyes peeled; you might be lucky enough to encounter an ibex (the Pyrenean cousin of the Alpine chamois) during your walk, or a marmot raising its head after a nap. The flora, as rich as the fauna, is a mosaic of colors that changes with the seasons, offering striking landscapes to vacationers who are left speechless by such beauty.

👉 When the sweltering heat sets in in the city, there's nothing like a getaway to the Pyrenees, where the mountain air brings a welcome freshness. The Lesponne Valley, located just a two-hour drive from Toulouse, offers an ideal break to find peace and serenity.

Activities and discoveries in the heart of nature in the Lesponne Valley

More than just a place for hiking, the valley invites you to a multitude of experiences:

• Fishing in rivers and mountain lakes, for lovers of nature and tranquility.
• Bike or mountain bike rides on winding roads and forest paths.
• Exploration of local heritage, with fairground barns and traditional architecture.
• Canyoning in Cérétou for adrenaline lovers.
• Treetop adventure course at Aya to gain height with family or friends.
• A night on the edge of a glacial lake at the Campana de Cloutou refuge.
• Outdoor picnic to taste local flavors from the region's producers.
  
  

And of course, the proximity of the Pic du Midi, accessible from La Mongie, to complete the Pyrenean experience with a breathtaking panorama.

A sporting and family destination par excellence

Recharge your batteries, marvel, and share unique moments in a preserved natural setting: this is what awaits you in the Lesponne Valley, whatever the time of year. Magnificent in both winter and summer, it attracts seasoned hikers each year who are happy to tackle hilly routes, cycling enthusiasts who pump up their calves, and mountain and nature lovers who happily lose themselves in the valley's rich flora and fauna. Equally captivated by the attractions of the Lesponne Valley, families love to come here to stroll at their own pace, admire the colorful landscapes, and enjoy a host of activities.

The Lesponne Valley, a preserved jewel to discover in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées.

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