After an initial steep climb, the route is largely downhill to Conflens and the river Salat. A day of wonderful views amidst the high mountains.

From the grassy cirque of the Cabane d’Aula at 1,550 m, the track zig zags up through a riot of mountain flowers and shrubs to the col above at 1,998 m. Be sure to look back for fabulous views of Mont Valier.

It is then only a short  stretch from there to the Etang d’Arreau at 1,888 m. This is a popular lake for day trips as it is possible to drive fairly close to it so it can be quite busy. There is a retrouvance cabin for group hire: it has a scenic picnic table at the front you could use if it is unoccupied. There are also some nice camping spots round the lake.

Here you intersect with a good dirt road which leads to the Spanish border just above at Porte d’Aula at 2,260 m. This is probably the easiest approach route to Spain in the Ariege. The road stops at the border: another of those projects that were never finished.

The GR10 follows the road in the opposite direction, going down through more pastoral country and past a shepherds cabin.  There is car parking at the Col de Pause at 1,527 m and the route continues to shadow the road with fabulous views en route.  At Raufaste, it leaves the road to drop down to the d’Angouls stream where you will find the Ferme de Bouries and a pretty, fairly informal shady campsite in the little valley. (2018: 6 euros per person). This is your last camping option before Conflens which has no facilities of any sort.

The GR10 then follows a quiet road for the final short stretch to Conflens (700 m) and the banks of the Salat river again. There are nice views of the town as you drop down, turning left to go through the middle and passing the war memorial to the left and a lavoir to the right.

On the edge of town, the GR10 goes right through a little gate under a house and starts the 250 m climb to Rouze where there is a gite  with comfortable overnight accommodation – they have a big dormitory and can supply home made goats cheese.

Ascent: 448 m

Descent: 1,298

Time: 6.5 Hours