Dams and hydroelectric power stations to visit

From the Aure valley, take the lakes route, which winds its way between the tranquillity of the waters and the rugged beauty of the Pyrenean peaks. The first lake to greet you is Lac d’Orédon, with its dam nestling in a majestic mountain setting. Continue on to the majestic Cap de Long lake. Its dam (one of the titans of the French Pyrenees), a masterpiece of industrial architecture, dominates the landscape with grandeur. You stand on this monumental edifice, the gentle breeze brushing your skin as you contemplate the crystal-clear waters.

To discover Lac d’Aubert and its dam, a shuttle bus takes you from Lac d’Orédon to a more intimate setting, where the rugged mountains draw a striking horizon. Finally, follow the path to the Aumar dam. Here, water and mountains come together in perfect harmony, offering a serene and soothing tableau. These lakes, the jewels of the Hautes-Pyrénées, are interconnected by a complex network of galleries and tunnels, where the water secretly flows towards the Pragnères power station.

Extra info : These infrastructures have the capacity to hold 63 million m³ of water.

The adventure continues as you immerse yourself in the technological world of the Pragnères hydroelectric power station, in the heart of the Gavarnie Valleys. This site, emblematic of industrial tourism in the Hautes-Pyrénées, offers you a unique experience. Equipped with a virtual reality headset, the gates of this colossus open up to you. Suddenly, you’re in a cable car, rising 1,700 metres to the pumping station. There, suspended between heaven and earth, a helicopter awaits you for a breathtaking aerial tour. You’ll fly over the Ossoue and Cap-de-Long dams, stone giants holding back the powerful waters that feed the power station.

Tours by prior arrangement.
Email: centrale.info@valleesdegavarnie.com
Tel: 07 85 36 89 09

As you travel up the Tech valley, the lake reveals itself as you drive along, its contours changing according to the needs of electricity generation. Along the shore, an interpretation trail accessible to all invites you to discover the geological and natural wealth of the area. Here, hydroelectricity blends harmoniously into the mountain landscape, offering a balcony view over the lake, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

But for a more demanding adventure, continue on to the Migouélou dam, perched at an altitude of almost 2,300 metres. Built between 1956 and 1959, this impressive dam features nine concrete arches holding back a deep blue lake. The path leading to it is a challenge for seasoned hikers, but the reward is well worth the effort: breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the discovery of a landscape where wild nature and human ingenuity combine to tame the water.

Immerse yourself in the lush green valley of Campan, where carefully collected mountain water is transformed into energy in a discreet but powerful ballet.

Guided by the team from the Centre Permanent d’Initiatives pour l’Environnement 65, discover the inner workings of this power station, where every drop of water is transformed into electricity. The gentle sound of the machines, the lapping of the water and the soothing ambience of the site create an atmosphere conducive to understanding and wonder. This immersive tour will awaken curious minds young and old, making tangible the complex processes that light up our homes.

Visits by prior arrangement.
Website: www.cpie65.fr
Email: cpie65@wanadoo.fr
Tel: 05 62 95 49 67

On your way to the Estaubé cirque, let yourself be seduced by the magic of the Gloriettes dam. Nestling in a dream setting, this artificial lake, which feeds the Gèdre hydroelectric power station, stretches peacefully beneath the benevolent gaze of the Pyrenean peaks. Accessible by car, the site is a breathtaking sight. The emerald colour of the lake, contrasting with the shades of grey and green of the surrounding mountains, creates a breathtaking picture. A walk around the lake takes you to spectacular vantage points, where unspoilt wilderness envelops you. The silence is interrupted only by birdsong. An ideal spot for a family picnic. Take the opportunity to admire the marmots and isards that populate the surrounding area.

For the more adventurous, the Gloriettes dam is also the starting point for walks leading to the Estaubé and Troumouse cirques. These trails invite you to discover the splendour of the Hautes-Pyrénées.