Top 8 Lakes around Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle

For easy access, Lake Orédon is highly recommended as it has a car park directly on its banks. It serves as a convenient starting point for exploring other lakes in the Néouvielle reserve, including trails leading to Lac d'Aubert, Lake Aumar, and Les Laquettes.

Yes, Lake Oule is an artificial lake created between the two World Wars to supply the Eget hydroelectric power station. Another notable one is Lac de Cap-de-Long, the largest reservoir in the Hautes-Pyrénées, known for its impressive 100-meter high dam and rugged, rock-strewn landscapes.

The Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle offers diverse hiking experiences. You can find popular trails starting from Lac d'Aubert, including a circular walk around the lake or a combined loop with Lake Aumar. The GR 10 long-distance hiking trail also follows the eastern shore of Lac d'Aubert. For a more immersive mountain experience, consider the chain of three glacial lakes known as Lacs de Bastan, typically accessed via a hike from Lake Oule.

The initial part of the hike to Lake Oule is considered very easy, making it a good option for beginners or families. Additionally, the high accessibility of Lake Orédon makes it a convenient starting point for many, including families, to embark on various trails.

The summer months are generally the best time to visit, as the high-altitude roads like the 'Route des Lacs' (D177) are open. During peak summer, personal vehicle access between Lac d'Orédon and Lac d'Aubert is restricted, but a convenient paid shuttle service is available. Winter conditions can be challenging, with snow and ice affecting accessibility and hiking conditions, especially for higher lakes like Lac de Bastan.

Yes, fishing for trout is permitted in Lac de Cap-de-Long. Always check local regulations and permit requirements before you go.

The Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle is known for its diverse flora and fauna. While specific wildlife sightings can vary, the pristine natural environment around lakes like Lacs de Bastan offers opportunities to observe the unique biodiversity of the Pyrenees.

During peak summer months, personal vehicle access on the 'Route des Lacs' (D177) between Lac d'Orédon and Lac d'Aubert is restricted. A paid shuttle service is available for convenient access to these areas.

Bivouacking is permitted in designated areas within the Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle, typically from 7 PM to 9 AM. Always adhere to local regulations to protect the natural environment.

Beyond hiking, the region around Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle offers various outdoor activities. You can explore MTB trails, enjoy road cycling routes, or discover waterfall hikes. These guides provide options for different sports and difficulty levels in the surrounding area.

Lac d'Aubert, at 2,148 meters, is famed for its sometimes emerald-tinted waters and reflective surface mirroring surrounding peaks like Pic de Néouvielle. Lake Aumar, adjoining Lac d'Aubert at 2,192 meters, is often described as wilder and clearer, offering superb views that emphasize the peaks of Néouvielle and Ramougn for a quintessential Pyrenean spectacle.

While the main lakes are popular, the Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle boasts over 70 glacial and artificial bodies of water. The chain of three glacial lakes, Lacs de Bastan (Inferior, Milieu, and Superior), offers a serene atmosphere and magnificent panoramic views, especially from the climb to the Bastan Refuge, providing a more immersive mountain experience away from the most crowded spots.