Which route to take to the Espingo Lake, is an ancient path created during the construction of the EDF Lake dam gate of which is much higher, and the dam of Lake Oô. Vestiges of this stony path still exist in places.
From the car park of the Granges d'Astau (S) (1130 m), the path heads south. It is well signposted and marked (GR10, red and white) to Lake Oô. It takes about 1.5 hours to get to Lake Oô and its shelter/hostel (2 hours if carrying a heavy load).
From the dam of Lake Oô (1) (1,500 m), continue to follow the GR10 south to access the Espingo Lake via the many loops leading up to the top of the Oô waterfall. Then we begin the climb to the Col d’Espingo, leaving the GR10 on the left (which goes up to the Superbagnères resort). Expect an additional 2-3 hours from Lake Oô to arrive at the pass.
At Col d’Espingo (1,967 m) discover the lake below at 1,880 m, and the refuge on the right.
From here there is a splendid view of the Cirque d’Espingo and about 3,000 m away (Spijéoles, Grand Quayrat, Mont Arrouy, Pic Lézat).
Come back by the same route.
Water isn’t a problem when heading to Espingo even in late summer as there is the refuge of Oô mid-trip, a few waterfalls on the way between Oô and Espingo, and water at the shelter at Espingo .
In principle camping is not allowed during the summer season, but bivouacking in Espingo is tolerated (if you make sure not to leave a trace of your having stayed when you leave), there are often people fishing at the lake.
Booking is essential for the Espingo shelter, which is often full.
Always stay careful and alert while following a route. Visorando and the author of this walk cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident during this route.
Espingo Lake alone is worth a look, but for those who want to continue to Lake Portillon (shelter) at 2,600 m, continue south along the same path, and passing Saussat Lake below.
Reviews and comments
4.9 / 5
Based on 3 reviews
Clarity of route description 5 / 5
Clarity of route map 5 / 5
Walk interest 4.7 / 5
muddylanding
Overall rating :
4.7 / 5
Date of walk : 27/06/18 Clarity of route description : ★★★★★ Very good Clarity of route map : ★★★★★ Very good Walk interest : ★★★★☆ Good
Nice views of high pyrenees. Crosses border into Spain.
aitchsj
Overall rating :
5 / 5
Date of walk : 19/07/18 Clarity of route description : ★★★★★ Very good Clarity of route map : ★★★★★ Very good Walk interest : ★★★★★ Very good
A wonderful walk with stunning views of waterfalls along the way and lots of beautiful orchids, lilies and iris to look at. Distances and timings were spot on
Ghayes
Overall rating :
5 / 5
Date of walk : 24/06/18 Clarity of route description : ★★★★★ Very good Clarity of route map : ★★★★★ Very good Walk interest : ★★★★★ Very good
This was one of the best scenic routes I have ever done along the GR10
The GPS track and description are the property of the author.
