On this section the GR10 continues on an upward trajectory with a stunning walk to some of the nicest cabins in the Ariege.

 

From the Flouquet ruins in the Orle valley at 1,050 m the GR10 heads briefly down the valley and into the trees. Shortly afterwards though, there is a right turn and you are soon climbing steeply again.  

The track crosses the GRP Tour de Biros route, which actually runs in conjunction with the GR10 from the Etang d’Araing until it veers off at the Flouquet ruins. This is the last you will see of it: at this spot it is actually following an old mini railway track which was once used to take iron across the mountains from the Port d’Orle.

It is an interesting walk in its own right with 6 tunnels still in existence and the track giving a lovely flat walk around the mountain until where it ends above Orle where a cable system kicked in.

However, our GR10 route is far from flat: it zig zags steeply up through the forest until you suddely emerge above the tree line, onto still steep grassy slopes. There is a beautiful and colourful variety of wild meadow flowers and wonderful views towards the Port d’Orle at 2,318 m.

Soon afterwards, you reach the Besset cabin at 1,494 m. I have seen this cabin and the Clot du Lac cabin above described as the most romantic cabins in the Ariege. I will leave you to decide for yourselves but there is no doubt that both are nice cabins and in stunning locations.

The Besset cabin has the benefit of a water trough whereas Clot du Lac has no water. However I think it has the edge for its superb views, so if thinking of stopping there, fill up your water bottles at Besset.

From Besset, it is another 327 m climb and just over an hour to Clot du Lac at 1,821 m.  It is all on open hillside too, so can be quite hot if you are climbing in the afternoon.

This is a tidy little cabin situated right on the ridge, though if you have any energy left it is only a short hop to Tuc du Coucou, just above at 1,890 m and a great sunset spot. In previous years, a bear was spotted in this area, so you never know, you might get lucky and see one!

Ascent: 771m

Descent: Neligible

Time: 2.40