スーエ・ロガールの天然記念物・トップ5

An emblematic pass in the Couserans, popular with cycle tourists and hikers, it offers a superb panorama of the mountains and valleys.

The area is simply a joy

Couserans is a Gascon country of mountains, hills, meadows, lakes, waterfalls and forests which is entirely part of the Pyrénées Ariégeoises Regional Natural Park. Among its 18 valleys located at the foot of the majestic Mount Valier, some remained landlocked until the recent past, which allowed them to maintain their own identity, such as the Bethmale valley. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was an overpopulated country whose small agricultural plots did not allow families to live, which is why the inhabitants had to show a lot of imagination to find survival activities. This is how some became “bear handlers”, peddlers of vanilla, fake stone, ice. Others became itinerant “raw distillers” or gold prospectors.

Going over the Col d'Auedole is to treat yourself to a pretty sight. You will see the richness of flora and fauna with superb flowers, mushrooms, insects, reptiles and birds. On a larger scale, the panoramas open wide in front of you and show you all the beauty of the Pyrenees.

The climb is on an off-center road, so little traffic. The ascent is partly in the shade and offers some breathtaking landscapes during certain turns!

The Col de la Core, at 1,395 meters above sea level, is part of both the pass route and the GR10 which cross the Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.

Lake Bethmale is a pretty landscaped mountain lake, accessible by road and the GR 10.

Beautiful spot, but the steep hiking trail that starts there is a real challenge.