Hikes in Aston

The Transhumance Trail is a 4-day cross-border itinerary between Ariège and Andorra. Horses, cows, sheep and their guardians - shepherds and herding dogs - are all part of your hike. Here, the mountains are shared.

a nice short loop of 8 km but with a good elevation gain rewarded at the end by three superb lakes overlooked by the Pyrenean peaks.

Hike through La Rabassa and Sorteny up to Pic de la Serrera.

Located in the town of Aston in Ariège, this is a Natura 2000 site where flora and fauna are protected. The surrounding woods and forests consist mainly of deciduous trees, conifers, and hook pines (Pinus cambro). A family-friendly hike with no technical difficulties, though there are a few scree sections before reaching the ponds. On the return trip, there is an option to take a longer alternate route to the Ruhle mountain hut, which is open until September 30 of this year. This hike requires a certain level of physical fitness, as you’ll need to adjust your footing to the uneven terrain. The risk of accidents is low; this is a mid-mountain route.

Through the upper Incles valley, over the Incles pass, and down to the Fontargent lakes, in a varied landscape full of contrasts, impressions and rewarding views. The lakes in their enchanting location form the visual highlight of the hike and give it a special character. Approximate walking times there and back, without breaks: Port d'Incles: 3 h (early return) Lower Fontargent Lake, north end: 5 h

A approximation of the GR10

An interesting alternative to a circuit from Laparan past the Refuge de Ruhle. Two cars cut out a road walk back to the Parking!

Over Pla de Montcamp and Col de Sirmont to the Plateau de BeilleThree major climbs have to be tackled on this long stage. In total, the flat elevation of the Pla de Montcamp, 1904 m, as well as the two subsequent passes bring us more than 2300 meters of ascent. Splitting the stage with an overnight stay in one of the cabins is worth considering once again here. Especially since the shepherds responsible for the shelters lovingly prepare inviting night quarters to reward the efforts of the exhausted hikers. A special feature are certainly the two food cabinets in the Cabane de Balledreyt and in the Cabane EDF de Clarans. But the successful wall painting in the Cabane d’Artaran also testify to the efforts. Even before we arrive at our stage destination, the Village Nordique Angaka, the sled dogs housed there can be heard from afar. A few meters further on the Plateau de Beille, there is a steady stream of visitors all year round. In summer, the plateau accessible by vehicle attracts numerous day hikers, while in winter skiers bustle on the slopes. The newly built main building in 2021/2022, which also has a restaurant, contributes its part. It becomes quieter towards the evening when the day tourists have started their journey back to the valley. Since the sun especially pampers the Plateau de Beille, we can sit long in the warming rays. After finally watching the sunset, a cozy yurt awaits us after a long day.

Return to the High Mountains: Today, for the first time in a while, we’re back above the 2,000-meter mark. After hiking through a landscape dominated by pastures up to the Col de Finestres (1,964 m), the character of the surroundings changes noticeably. The terrain gradually becomes rockier and steeper, and as we reach the Crête des Isards, that familiar high-mountain feeling soon sets in. The ridge, which promises a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains and lakes in good weather, can quickly turn into a nightmare during a thunderstorm. The exposed trail offers no shelter from the storm; thorough trip planning is key to avoiding unpleasant surprises. From the Col de Belh (2,247 m), the Refuge du Rulhe is finally visible. The descent to our destination for the day is quick, and the hut’s terrace invites you to enjoy a meal there with a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains.

The Plateau de Beille is the result of millions of years of erosion. Its gentle relief and remarkable panoramic views make it an ideal spot for family outings.