Gaube lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Pyrenees and a must-see destination during your stay in Cauterets.
Gaube lake: A jewel of the Pyrenees from the Pont d’Espagne
This high-altitude lake boasts exceptional emerald waters set against a backdrop of the Vignemale, the highest peak in the French Pyrenees, which is reflected majestically in the lake.
How to get to Gaube lake: 2 options
1/ Take the ski lifts for an effortless ride:
Leaving from the Pont d’Espagne, the Puntas cable car takes you over the waterfalls. Then head for the Gaube chairlift for a gentle ascent.
The walk continues with a 20-minute stroll along a fairly level path to the lake.
Dogs are allowed on a lead as far as the lake, but only via the chairlift and as far as the first bank of the lake.
Route via the ski lifts
- Departure from the Pont d’Espagne via the Puntas cable car
- A spectacular flight over the waterfalls
- Head for the Gaube chairlift, changing banks on foot, for a 15-minute ride.
- Then an easy 20-minute walk along a level path to the lake.
The mountains accessible to all
- People with reduced mobility (excluding electric wheelchairs)
- Families with children aged 1 and over
- Pushchairs accepted
- Dogs only allowed on lead via chairlift
2/ Walk along the GR10 from the Pont d’Espagne
The hike to Lac de Gaube takes you through an unspoilt glacial valley, through a forest of hooked pines, along the Gave and the Plateau des Huats before reaching the lake.
This hike is not particularly difficult, although there are some natural rocky steps that can be quite long for younger children. It’s an ideal hike for a first experience of the mountains.
Our practical tips for enjoying Lac de Gaube
What services are available on site?
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- L’hôtellerie de Gaube for refreshments and meals overlooking the lake. Open throughout the summer.
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- Dry toilets at Lac de Gaube: please follow the instructions for use.
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- Water point at the hotel to fill your water bottle.
Is Gaube lake accessible in winter?
Access to the lake is not recommended in winter due to the risk of avalanches. Call in the mountain professionals to discover winter hiking.
How old do you have to be to go to Lac de Gaube?
Children aged 1 and over can use the ski lifts to get to Gaube lake. Children aged 4 and over can hike the GR10. The walk will take longer, so don’t forget to take breaks and make the most of this family time to help your children discover the mountains.
Can I go Gaube lake with my dog?
Dogs are only allowed on Gaube lake via the chairlift and up to the first bank. The lake is located in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park and is subject to strict regulations.
Is it possible to swim in Gaube lake?
As a general rule, swimming is not recommended in mountain lakes, to avoid disturbing and polluting the ecosystems.
Is it possible to bivouac at Gaube lake?
The bivouac area is located at the end of the lake, along the banks. Please respect the National Park regulations: no fires, respect the timetable: pitch your tent from 7pm and put it away before 9am.