35 - LE RU D'ENFER

10 km from Luchon, on the road to Superbagnères, the Vallée du Lis is the starting point for many picturesque walks. The stream that runs through it, the Lis, is a tributary of the Pique. Contrary to what one might imagine, the Vallée du Lis does not take its name from the flowers that adorn it every June. Its correct spelling, ‘Batche dera Lit’ (Vallée de la Lit), means ‘Avalanche Valley’. From this magnificent spot, surrounded by high mountains, a range of walks of varying difficulty await you. Just a few metres past the car park, the Cascade d’Enfer is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Pyrenees. Further on, after an hour’s walk, you reach the Gouffre d’Enfer. Continuing on, the Ru d’Enfer is an impressive outcrop carved out of the rock by the water. The more adventurous can try their hand at canyoning under the guidance of a guide. Walks towards the Pré de l’Artigue will delight walkers. More experienced hikers can take the circuit around the lakes (Lac Vert, Lac Bleu, Lac Charles and Lac Célinda). The Lis Valley is also the starting point for hikes to the high peaks around Luchon. This is particularly true of the Pic du Maupas (3,109 m), which is notable both for its panoramic views and for the superb climbing routes it offers on its south, west and north faces. Above the Lis Valley, in the Crabioules massif, mines were in operation at the start of the 20th century. Originally, the ore (lead, zinc and blende) was sorted on site and then transported down on the backs of mules. An aerial cableway with skips was later installed, enabling larger-scale mining operations. The ore was then processed at the valley’s ore-washing plant, the ruins of which can still be seen today opposite the inn. Mining operations ceased in 1914, as operating costs had become too high to ensure optimal profitability. Human activity in the valley is evident in the presence of the hydroelectric power station. Water from Lac Bleu and Lac du Portillon flows through the tunnels and the penstock that can be seen descending from the mountain, powering the turbines. With a head of 1,419 metres, this penstock is the longest in France. A cable car used to provide access from the valley floor to the top of the penstock, but it was dismantled to reduce operating costs and visual impact. EDF now carries out the necessary maintenance work by helicopter. Hiking in the mountains, even at low altitudes, requires a certain knowledge of the environment and a great deal of caution. Remember to contact the relevant professionals and check the weather forecast before setting off. In winter, the numerous avalanche couloirs overlooking the Lis Valley mean you must be extra vigilant.