Lac de Payolle
Discover Lac de Payolle
The “Little Canada” of the Pyrenees
At the foot of Col d’Aspin and the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, the Payolle plateau offers stunning scenery in a protected mountain setting.
A perfect family destination to enjoy nature and share unforgettable moments together.
Breathe in the fresh mountain air on a day out by this lake, often described as having a Canadian feel.
Payolle is the perfect place to admire the Pic du Midi, the Arbizon massif, and even Mount Aneto.
After a day of high-altitude hiking or a visit to the Pic du Midi, unwind with a beautiful day at Lake Payolle — a place offering plenty of outdoor activities.
Set among ancient trees and accompanied by the gentle sound of the mountain stream, it’s the perfect spot to relax by the water or enjoy a picnic in the open air.
If you’d rather avoid the high mountains with little ones, Payolle is the perfect place for a first taste of the mountains.
It’s also ideal for a gentle stroll, whether you’re 0 or 100 years old.
The pump track also promises plenty of fun for riding enthusiasts, with a green line for balance bikes and beginners, plus hips and whoops for more experienced riders!
Practical Information
Everything you need to know about Payolle
Access & Parking
Lac de Payolle is easy to reach year-round, whether from the Vallée de Campan or via Col d’Aspin.
- By car: via the D935 (from Bagnères-de-Bigorre) or the D918 (from Arreau via Col d’Aspin).
- Driving times:
- Bagnères-de-Bigorre: 30 min (23 km)
- La Mongie: 25 min (via Sainte-Marie de Campan)
- Parking : several free car parks are available right next to the lake. There is also a designated area for motorhomes (overnight parking subject to local regulations).
Services & Dining
No need to over-plan — the site is lively and well equipped.
- Restaurants: several lakeside restaurants serve local specialities such as garbure and wood-fired grilled dishes.
- Equipment hire: available on site:
- Summer: pedal boats, canoes, paddleboards, mountain bikes and e-bikes
- Winter: snowshoes, cross-country skis and sledges
When to visit
- Summer: for cooler temperatures, horse riding and water activities.
- Autumn: for the deer rut (famous in the Payolle forest) and stunning autumn colours.
- Winter: for a “Great North” feel, dog sledding and cross-country skiing.
Yes, access to Lac de Payolle is completely free and open all year round. Nearby parking areas are also free of charge. Only activities (canoe rental, horse riding, Nordic lifts in winter) are paid.
Yes, dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a leash at all times. The area is used for grazing, with cattle and horses roaming freely, so leashes are essential to avoid any incidents with livestock.
No, swimming is prohibited at Lake Payolle in order to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure everyone’s safety. However, you can enjoy the lake through activities such as pedal boats, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding.
Fishing is allowed (category 1), provided you have a valid fishing licence (available online or from local shops).
Wild camping is not allowed. Bivouacking (pitching a tent after 7 pm and taking it down before 9 am) is tolerated under certain conditions, but it is recommended to use nearby designated campsites.
Yes, Lac de Payolle lies at the foot of Col d’Aspin. You can reach it by car (around 15 minutes) or on foot via hiking trails (about 1.5 hours for hikers).
Note: the mountain road may be closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
Parts of the lakeside area—especially near the parking areas and restaurants—are paved or on compacted ground, making access to the water easier. However, some of the surrounding forest trails remain uneven and more challenging.