Route: Vielha – Gausac – Bassa d’Oles – Pla Batallé – Aubert
Difficulty: Medium
Type: Tourism
Description:
The Baricauba forest is one of the true marvels of the Arán Valley. It is a sprawling fir tree forest, very thick in some parts. The Bassa d’Ules is a small reservoir which is transformed into an idyllic mountain lake in rainy springs and summers. There is also an Environmental Education centre there which accepts groups of school children. The point of departure for this outing is the village of Gausac, a mere kilometre away from Vielha. When you reach Gausac take the asphalted track that leads up to the Montcorbison forest: Baricauba. There is a crossroads three kilometres further on where you turn left to go to the Bassa d’Oles, also known as La Piusa. This asphalted track is five kilometres long, and the direction to follow is clearly indicated. The picnic area of the Mair of Diu des Nhèus is just four kilometres after the crossroads, before you reach the reservoir. It is located in a meadow which is somewhat sparse in trees, although it does offer a great view of the Gèles gulley and the River Garona. Take the right-hand way to Pla Batallé, another family area which is well equipped for picnics. The beech and fir trees scattered over the spot provide some shade for the tables. Suitable in summer, the area has a barbecue, fifteen tables and drinking water. You can also reach this point from the village of Aubèrt by following the asphalted track from there until it forks. Bear left to reach the leisure area, about 450 m further on.
