Mountaineering in the heart of the Pyrenean winter

Climbing snow-capped peaks :
a unique adventure

Winter mountaineering is an invitation to explore the intensity of the mountain in all its white glory. Each ascent becomes a sensory experience: the snow crunches under your crampons, the icy wind caresses your face and the unobstructed view of the sleeping valleys is sublime. There’s something for everyone in the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees, from easy routes for novices to more technical routes for the more experienced.

Rising to the challenge
of ice climbing

In winter, some of the rock faces in the Pyrenees are covered in ice, offering climbers an exceptional playground. Climbing frozen waterfalls requires precise technique and great concentration, but the reward is incomparable: a combination of intense effort and crystal-clear beauty. Spots such as the Cascade d’Enfer in the Vallée du Lys are particularly popular with climbers.

The refuges, essential
for mountaineers

After an intense day on the summits, the high mountain refuges, such asEspingo or Portillon, offer a warm place to rest. Nestling in the heart of snow-covered landscapes, they are the perfect place to share convivial moments over a hot meal, while admiring the stars twinkling above the peaks.

Essential preparation
for winter mountaineering

Before you set off to conquer the peaks, prepare your outing thoroughly. Make sure you have the right equipment: crampons, ice axes, insulating clothing and a thermos flask. Check the weather forecast, because the mountain climate can change rapidly, and find out about the condition of the routes. Good physical preparation is also recommended to get the most out of your experience.

Winter mountaineering in the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees is an adventure in a class of its own, combining a challenge to the limits and a communion with unspoilt nature. From frozen waterfalls and breathtaking panoramas to the warm welcome you’ll receive in the refuges, this activity promises to leave you with lasting memories. So, are you ready to take up the challenge of the snowy peaks?