GR10 autour de Luchon

The unforgettable adventure of the GR10 through the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees

My friends and I decided to set off on part of the GR10, the legendary trail that crosses the Pyrenees for almost 900 km between Hendaye and Banyuls. Our aim? To discover the treasures of the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees, sharing unforgettable moments along the lakes, valleys and villages of this breathtaking region.

Immersion in the GR10
from Melles

Our journey began in Melles, in the heart of the mountains. Located halfway along the GR10, this typical little village was the perfect starting point. From the very first steps, the red and white markings guide us through mysterious forests and torrents that seem to sing beneath our feet.

We quickly realised that the hike wasn’t going to be easy, especially with the climbs ahead of us. But the excitement of the adventure, combined with the breathtaking views, soon made us forget the effort. Every break became a time for sharing: we marvelled at the scenery and joked about snacking on dried fruit.

GR10 entre Melles et Fos

From village to village :
between tradition and conviviality

Our itinerary took us through some very charming villages: Fos, Arlos, Gouaux-de-Luchon… Each stop was an opportunity to refill our water bottles and chat with the locals, who were always curious to know where we’d come from and how far we were going.

Each village had a different atmosphere. At Arlos, we came across a herd in summer pasture; at Gouaux-de-Luchon, the silence of the mountains enveloped us. It was as if each place had a unique story to tell us.

Troupeau en estive

The reward
in Luchon

When we arrived in Luchon, it was like reaching an oasis. This town, nicknamed the “Queen of the Pyrenees”, is an emblematic stop-off point for all hikers on the GR10. After several hours’ walking, stopping here was a real reward.

We made the most of the simple pleasures: a good mountain meal (the garbure was unanimously acclaimed!), an evening to renew acquaintances, and for some, a visit to the thermal baths to soothe aching muscles.

Thermes de Luchon

The icing on the cake
from Saint-Aventin to Oô

The final stage, between Saint-Aventin and Oô, was magical. This section is a concentration of the best the Pyrenees have to offer: open valleys, ridges offering 360° views, and above all, the famous Lac d’Oô.

With its 275-metre waterfall, it’s simply spectacular. We arrived there in the late afternoon, just in time to see the sun playing with the reflections in the water. It was the perfect setting to set up our bivouac and share a final meal under a starry sky.

Lac d'Oô

Our advice
for a successful experience

After this adventure, we’ve learned a few lessons about how to make the most of the GR10:

  • Travel light: an overloaded rucksack quickly becomes an ordeal. Prioritise the essentials.
  • Water is life: find out about springs and take purification tablets with you.
  • Unpredictable weather: glorious sunshine can give way to driving rain. Always be prepared.
  • Strategicrefreshment points: find out where you can refuel with food and energy.
  • Prepare your legs: a bit of training before setting off never hurts, especially when it comes to managing the gradients.

Memories
engraved forever

This section of the GR10 in the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees offered us much more than just a hike. It brought us closer together, pushed us to go beyond our limits and allowed us to reconnect with nature.

So, if you’re looking for an adventure with friends, an experience that combines effort, wonder and camaraderie, the GR10 is waiting for you. Grab your rucksack, gather your friends and family and set off to discover these sumptuous landscapes. You won’t regret it!

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