Lac de Pouchergues

Lac de Pouchergues is a mountain lake in the commune of Loudenvielle, in the Louron valley, in the Hautes-Pyrénées department of southern France. Sitting at roughly 2,100 metres above sea level below the rocky face of the Clarabide peak (3,020 m), it belongs to a chain of high-altitude reservoirs fed by streams draining the surrounding ridges. It draws hikers looking for quiet, wide-open scenery typical of the central Pyrenees, away from the valley's busier trails.

Where exactly is the lake?

Lac de Pouchergues lies in the upper Louron valley, close to the border with the Haute-Garonne department and not far from the French-Spanish frontier. The lake is linked to the neighbouring Lac de Caillaouas, and together the two reservoirs feed the La Soula hydroelectric power station through a shared penstock. Because of this intake, the water level can vary noticeably over the course of a season.

How do you get there?

The usual trailhead is Pont de Prat, a bridge in the upper Louron valley at about 1,230 metres. From there the path follows the Clarabide gorges, passes the Vierge de la Santète and the Refuge de la Soula, then tracks the Neste de Clarabide stream up to the lake. The climb typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours one way. The final stretch near the lake can be steep and slippery after rain, so sturdy hiking boots are worth bringing.

What stands out about the lake itself?

The lake reaches a depth of 32 metres, a notable figure for a mountain reservoir of its size. It has been studied since the early twentieth century: in 1921 the French researcher Ludovic Gaurier carried out bathymetric surveys and recorded a large trout population. The surroundings are classic high-mountain terrain — bare rock, alpine pasture and sparse vegetation framing water whose colour shifts with the season and the light.

Who is this hike for?

The route to Lac de Pouchergues is moderately demanding: its length and cumulative elevation gain call for reasonable fitness, though no climbing gear is needed. Stronger hikers can extend the day toward Lac de Clarabide, or, for the most committed, all the way to Lac du Portillon — an option that turns the outing into a considerably longer and tougher day.

FAQ

How high up is Lac de Pouchergues? The lake sits at roughly 2,100 metres above sea level.

Where's the best starting point for the trail? Most hikers start from Pont de Prat, in the upper Louron valley.

How long does it take to reach the lake? The ascent from Pont de Prat usually takes around 3 to 3.5 hours.

Can you fish in the lake? Historical surveys recorded a large trout population, but check current local fishing regulations before heading out.

Is the trail suitable for beginners? It's a moderate route — long with substantial elevation gain but no scrambling or climbing — so it calls for decent fitness and proper footwear rather than technical experience.