GR 10 guided section 5 : From Bagneres de Luchon to Aulus les Bains

Meet your guide at 8 AM in Luchon for a transfer to the village of Artigue, the starting point of the hike (15 min). From Artigue, you will begin an ascent to the Col de Peyrahitte. Shortly after the pass, a stunning ridge trail reaching the Pic de Bacanère (2193m) offers a fantastic panoramic view stretching from the peaks of Ariège to those of the Hautes-Pyrénées, passing through the Luchonnais, Aneto (the highest peak in the Pyrenees), the Encantats, and many more. This breathtaking panorama will accompany you along a pleasant 3km ridge walk punctuated by small scenic summits. The descent then takes you from shepherds' huts through a forested area to reach the village of Fos.
Distance: 20km, duration:. 7h45, ascent: +1000m, descent: -1650m

From the village of Fos in the Comminges region, a long ascent takes you over the Col d’Auéran (2176m), marking your entrance into Ariège and the Couserans region. From the pass, you will catch sight of the beautiful setting of the Araing Refuge, your destination for the day, located near the lake of the same name beneath the cliffs of Crabère Peak. The landscapes traversed already hint at the vast, wild expanses characteristic of this part of the Pyrenees.
Distance: 16km, duration: 7h, ascent: +1700m, descent: -300m

Today's route connects the Araing Refuge to the small village of Eylie d’en Haut, at the gateway to Haute-Ariège and the untamed Couserans. This shorter stage allows for recovery from previous days and provides an opportunity to prepare for the long hike ahead. If the group is up for it, your guide may offer an optional morning exploration of hidden scenic spots around the Araing Lake and Refuge.
Distance: 8km, duration: 4h15, ascent: +400m, descent: -1350m

Departing from Eylie, this demanding stage in the heart of the Couserans region takes you through the wild landscapes typical of this part of the Pyrenees: beech forests, mountain pastures, and shepherds’ huts. Crossing the Cols de l’Arech and Clot du Lac, you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains rising above deep valleys. You will then reach the Pla de la Lau and the Maison du Valier.
Distance: 18km, duration: 8h30, ascent: +1550m, descent: -1600m

A day of hiking along scenic balcony trails between the high mountains and the foothills of the Couserans. You will leave behind the Mont Valier massif, the emblematic peak of the Couserans, while enjoying superb views of this summit and other high peaks in the area. The charming Etang d’Ayes will add beauty to your route before reaching the Col de la Core. At the end of the hike, a transfer from Col de la Core to St Lizier d’Ustou avoids a section of the GR10 with no accommodation.
Distance: 13.5km, duration: 6h30, ascent: +1250m, descent: -800m

This stage marks the transition from the Couserans to Haute-Ariège. Departing from the picturesque hamlet of St Lizier d’Ustou, nestled in a lush valley, you will ascend to the Col d’Escots. From the pass, a beautiful view opens up over the last high border peaks of the Couserans. You will then descend toward the thermal village of Aulus-les-Bains via the Cirque Casérien and the scenic Fouillet waterfall. If the group is feeling strong, a longer detour via the Guzet Lake and the Ars waterfall will allow you to admire one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Pyrenees.
Distance: 15km, Duration: 6h30, Ascent: +1100m, Descent: -1100m

After breakfast, transfer (35 min) to Saint-Girons, marking the end of the trip. Here, you can visit the Saint-Girons market, ranked among the most beautiful markets in France. Set along the Salat River, this lively market offers a wide variety of local products, including vegetables, cured meats, poultry, bread, millas, cheeses, honey, jams, pastries, and other farm-fresh goods.