Top 5 Huts and Cabins around Ascou

Dry toilets available but water point (source) 300 m from the refuge.

Nestled at the foot of the Pérics at 2,240 meters, the Camporells refuge is in a remarkable setting. Located on the banks of the Estany del Mig (middle pond), it has 19 places and 12 additional tents.

The En Beys refuge which overlooks the eponymous ponds culminates at an altitude of 1,970 meters, in the heart of the Orlu national reserve. Situated on the great GR 7 which connects the Vosges to the Pyrenees, the refuge remains an excellent detour for the GRP® tour of the Ax Mountains or Tour des Pérics. In a warm and family setting, the refuge guardians offer 70 beds in high season as well as a complete catering offer. In winter, 15 places remain freely accessible, accessible through the window at the top of the ladder which fits on one of the walls of the building. The refuge is an ideal place to observe the burning of the granite walls of the Pics Rouges at sunset, or the galloping chamois in the snowfields in the early morning. If you wish to extend your stay for one night, do not hesitate to contact the refuge on 05 61 64 24 24 to find out about opening dates and bed availability.

The Cabane de la Jasse de Bretounels is a shepherd's hut erected at an altitude of 1,800 metres. The hut is a large structure divided into two parts: one reserved for shepherds, the other intended for hikers. This second part includes four places on a sideboard with mattresses, a fireplace as well as a large table and benches. The hut is erected within a branch of a stream where water flows a priori all year round. On the other hand, the place is frequented by livestock so a filter is necessary before any consumption. I recommend the cabin as the first stop on the GRP® tour des Montagnes d'Ax. It is an unguarded cabin so I invite you to remain respectful of the place. If space were to run out, you can always pitch a tent for the night near the cabin.

The Mouscadou hut is a charming hut perched at an altitude of 1,695 meters, halfway between the huts of Tessoula (1,535 meters) and Bretounels (1,612 meters). Its picturesque charm blends perfectly with the panorama it enjoys. From the doorstep, you can observe the deep valleys of Ax, the huge talc quarry of Trimouns and the adjoining mountains. The hut has a sideboard for three people and a fireplace. Without planning there for one night, Mouscadou remains an excellent stopover during the ascent and a last-minute refuge in the event of capricious weather. Please note: during the mountain pastures, the hut may be closed for the use of the shepherds.

The En Beys pond is part of a group of three ponds: the En Beys pond, the Couillade pond and the herb pond. A guarded refuge is present on the banks at the Gourd Gaudet pond.

Upon arrival at the pass, the view opens up and offers a lovely panorama of the surrounding peaks.

A great reward after a strenuous climb!