Étangs de Fontargente, Mountain lakes in Ariège, France
Étangs de Fontargente are three mountain lakes set high in the Pyrenees at about 2140 meters elevation, nestled in a natural bowl of rock and stone. The basin sits close to the border with Andorra and creates a remote alpine setting.
These lakes were carved out by glacial movement during the last ice age many thousands of years ago. The slow grinding of ice over the landscape created the deep basin that holds the water today.
Local shepherds have utilized the surrounding pastures for centuries, maintaining traditional grazing practices that help preserve the mountain ecosystem and landscape.
A circular walking path leads from a mountain trailhead up to the lakes through high alpine terrain. The route takes several hours and involves steep sections and rocky ground, so sturdy hiking boots and good physical fitness are necessary.
The name means silver fountain in French and refers to how the water surface shimmers with a metallic sheen when light hits it the right way. This effect becomes especially visible during clear weather and at certain times of day.
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