The most beautiful walks around the Pic du Midi
Route notebook · Mountains
The most beautiful walks around the Pic du Midi
Starting point. 2,877 m, the summit we can see from Bagnères-de-Bigorre.
The Pic du Midi de Bigorre towers over the whole of Haute-Bigorre, and several routes let you approach it on foot, without necessarily reaching the summit. Here is our selection, from the most accessible to the most demanding.
01 · The easiest
The cable car from La Mongie
★view
360°
For those who want the panorama without the effort, the cable car from La Mongie climbs straight to the summit, home to the astronomical observatory. On a clear day, the view stretches to the ocean on one side and the Mediterranean on the other.
02 · On foot from the Tourmalet
The classic climb from the pass
From the Col du Tourmalet, a waymarked trail lets trained hikers reach the summit on foot in about 3 hours of ascent. The elevation gain is significant and the terrain rocky towards the end, so plan on good shoes and a windproof layer, even in the height of summer.
03 · Around the Payolle plateau
Gentler walks at the foot of the massif
For a more relaxed outing with the Pic du Midi as a backdrop, the Payolle plateau and its surroundings offer several easy forest walks, with a clear view of the summit from the path around the lake.
04 · Practical tips
Preparing your outing
Even in summer, the temperature at the summit can be several degrees lower than in the valley, and the wind often blows hard. A warm layer and a windbreaker remain essential, whether you go up on foot or by cable car.
Frequently asked questions
How can I get up the Pic du Midi without walking?
By the cable car from La Mongie, which takes you straight to the summit and the observatory.
Can you climb the Pic du Midi on foot?
Yes, from the Col du Tourmalet, in about 3 hours of ascent for trained hikers, on a waymarked trail that becomes demanding towards the end.
What temperature should I expect at the summit of the Pic du Midi?
Expect several degrees less than in the valley and often strong wind, even in the height of summer: a warm layer and a windbreaker are needed all year round.
A garment, a memory of adventure. The Pic du Midi, our horizon from Bagnères.
Discover the collection →Sources · Pic du Midi · Tourmalet Pic du Midi
Information checked in September 2026.
