A steep climb up from the Riberot valley to the high mountains with spectacular views of Mt. Valier, the highest mountain in the Ariège.
From the popular Maison du Valier (927 m), the route initially heads south eastward down the valley: this is the direct route for an ascent of Mt. Valier, the highest mountain in the the Ariege at 2,838 m.
However, the GR10 soon follows its usual habits and heads upwards to Cap des Lauses at 1,892 m, initially climbing up through the forest then into the grasslands.
Soon after reaching the open hillside, you will find the Cabane d’Aouen at 1,620 m. This is a fairly new cabin but not a very exciting one, being a bit of a concrete block with a sleeping platform for 2 or 3 people. There is a good view though.
From the Cap des Lauses you have another accommodation option, with a short detour to the Cabane du Taus. Although quite small, it is a nice little cabin with a great view.
Otherwise, following the GR10 from the Cap takes you along a beautifully scenic path for 2 km to the Col de la Lazies at 1,840 m. A green grazing area follows with a water trough then a rise to a small col above the Etang d’Ayes. A tiny detour to the north along the ridge takes you to a small knoll with nice views.
The Etang d’Ayes, at 1,694 m, is a super little lake and a pleasant place to camp. Otherwise, it is an easy walk on to the Col d’Auedole at 1,730 m and just underneath it, the nice Cabane du Clot-d’Eliet.
Total Ascent: 1,113 m
Total Descent: 358 m
Time: 6 Hours