Accessible by cable car from the centre of the village of Cauterets, the Cirque du Lys offers one of the finest views of the Pyrenees mountain range. At an altitude of 2,450 metres, you can look out over the great peaks: the Vignemale, the Pic du Midi, the Monné, the Viscos and many others.
In winter, it’s a unique setting for skiing facing the mountains or tobogganing and enjoying the panoramic terraces.
In summer, hikers and visitors can take advantage of a high altitude area that opens out onto spectacular scenery. The Cirque du Lys is a natural belvedere that can be explored all year round, offering a choice of skiing, walking and contemplation.
Access to the Crêtes du Lys at 2,400m
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pyrenean peaks such as the Vignemale, the Pic du Midi and many others.
The Crêtes du Lys can be reached by cable car from the village and then effortlessly by the Grand Barbat chairlift.
Take a break and gaze at the surrounding mountains from the orientation table.
From the ridges, you can catch a glimpse of Lake Ilhéou, which is an accessible day hike.
WALK OVER THE ILHÉOU PASS
To get to the Col d’Ilhéou effortlessly, the Lys gondola lift and then the Grand Barbat chairlift are the most accessible options.
The walk starts from the Crêtes du Lys at 2400m.
From the Crêtes du Lys, it’s a 30-minute walk to the Col d’Ilhéou, right in the heart of nature.
HIKE TO LAKE ILHÉOU
The walk starts from the Crêtes du Lys.
This easy hike is best done in the morning, to give you time to enjoy the walk and a picnic by the lake or at the refuge (3h round trip). This walk takes you to the gateway to the Pyrenees National Park. Dogs are allowed on a lead as far as the lake.
The Cirque du Lys is a pastoral area in summer, so please respect the peace and quiet of the herds.
Lake Ilhéou, a must-see in the valley
Lac d’Ilhéou is one of the most accessible lakes in Cauterets. A 2-hour walk from Cambasque or the Crêtes du Cirque du Lys will take you to the shores of a beautiful high altitude lake with dark blue water.
