In the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées, just 7 kilometres from Cauterets, the Pont d’Espagne is one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles in the Pyrenees. This emblematic site of the Pyrenees National Park and Grand Site Occitanie, fascinates visitors who come to admire its waterfalls, breathtaking panoramas and unspoilt nature.
in winter
Discover the Pont d’Espagne
The Pont d’Espagne site offers a full range of winter activities for all abilities and profiles in the exceptional setting of the Pyrenees National Park. Toboggan enthusiasts can take advantage of a free, secure toboggan run on the Plateau du Clot, while a 6km marked snowshoe trail takes in waterfalls and snow-covered forests.
Nordic skiers can choose from 36km of groomed runs on the Clot and Cayan plateaux, with the option of an introduction to biathlon. For beginner downhill skiers , there are 2 green runs and a blue family run.
Toboggan run
Located on the Plateau du Clot, the toboggan run is safe and secure. With free access on foot, it’s the ideal place to spend some quality time with family and friends. For even more fun, there’s the Le Clot restaurant nearby.
Toboggans can only be hired in the village.
Signposted snowshoe trail
Starting from the car park, there is a safe, signposted 6km snowshoe trail through fir trees and waterfalls in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park. Mountain professionals are on hand to guide you safely off the beaten track.
Cross-country skiing
36 km of trails await cross-country skiers in an exceptional setting.
The pistes are marked and groomed for skating and alternating, and are divided between the Clot plateau (easier, ideal for beginners) and the Cayan plateau, as far as the Estalounquet bridge in the Marcadau valley (wilder and more undulating).
Favourite
Biathlon: with Sebastien from Elan nordique! Discover this fun yet demanding activity on the Clot plateau. Ski course, laser rifle shooting…
The perfect piste for beginners
Downhill skiing
On the Clot plateau, two green slopes offer ideal conditions for learning to ski in complete safety. Served by a ski lift, these gentle slopes allow you to master your first turns in a safe, unspoilt setting. With an unbeatable price of €10 per person, this is your chance to take your first steps on skis at a low price.
An authentic family experience
For experienced skiers and families in search of authenticity, the Gaube blue run, accessible via the chairlift of the same name, promises a magical descent through snow-covered fir trees. A natural skiing experience that will delight young and old alike. Open only during school holidays.
Practical information
What are the rates?
- Cross-country skiing: €11
- Beginner downhill skiing: €10
- Downhill skiing on the Gaube blue run: €16
- Lifts open from December to March. See prices
How do I get there?
- From Cauterets: 7km from the village, accessible by car or shuttle bus
- Winter equipment compulsory (chains or socks in the vehicle or snow tyres)
- Car park: €8 per day, included in lift passes
What are the timetables?
Reception hours: 9am – 5pm
What services are available on site?
Catering: Hôtellerie du Pont d’Espagne opposite the waterfall – Refuge du Clot on the Clot plateau
Specific regulations
Dogs are not allowed on the Pont d’Espagne site from 1 November to 30 April.
In summer
Discover the Pont d’Espagne
A true gateway to the high Pyrenean valleys (Marcadau, Gaube…), the Pont d’Espagne takes its name from the old mule track that once linked France to Spain. The bridge dates back to 1886.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker in search of the mythical Lac de Gaube, a family looking for an accessible nature break, or a photography enthusiast captivated by the wild beauty of the Pyrenees, here are all the secrets of the Pont d’Espagne: itineraries, timetables and practical advice for this exceptional site.
The Pont d’Espagne waterfall
Every season is an ideal time to visit this iconic site: in spring, the waterfall reveals all its power with the impressive flow of melting snow; in summer, it offers a welcome coolness for hikers; in autumn, it is adorned in flamboyant colours; and in winter, it is covered in snow and ice.
A real must-see in the Pyrenees, the Pont d’Espagne waterfall captivates visitors with its ever-changing beauty and ease of access, as well as being the ideal starting point for exploring the Pyrenees National Park.
Practical information
How to get there
- From Cauterets: 7km from the village, accessible by car or shuttle bus
- From La Raillère on foot along the waterfalls path
- Car park: €8 per day, included in lift passes
Opening times and prices
- Gaube chairlift open from 8 May to 29 September. See prices
- Reception opening times: 9am – 5pm
On-site services
- Catering: Hôtellerie du Pont d’Espagne opposite the waterfall – Refuge du Clot on the Clot plateau – Hôtellerie de Gaube opposite the lake.
- Nature guide at the lookout point on the Gaube chairlift (during school holidays).
Specific regulations
- Pyrenees National Park: see regulations. Dogs allowed on a lead from 1 May to 31 October: to Plateau du Clot and Lac de Gaube by chairlift only.
Summer must-haves
FAQ
How long will it take to visit the Pont d’Espagne?
The waterfall is a 5-minute walk from the car park. In fine weather, Lac de Gaube can be reached via the GR10 by a 1.5-hour walk (allow 2.5 hours for the return journey) or by chairlift (20-minute walk). Allow at least half a day to visit Lac de Gaube.
Is Lac de Gaube accessible in winter?
Lac de Gaube is not recommended in winter. The path is not safe. Get in touch with mountain professionals to discover this snow-covered lake in complete safety.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are only allowed on a lead as far as the Plateau du Clot and Lac de Gaube via the chairlift from 1 May to 31 October. National Park regulations are strict and any infringement is punishable by a fine imposed by the park wardens.
Is it safe to swim in the lakes?
Swimming in mountain lakes is not recommended to protect fragile ecosystems.
How do I get to the chairlift?
The Gaube chairlift is accessible by cable car from the car park, or on foot in just a few minutes along the signposted path.