Lac de Bastan du Milieu, Mountain lake in Aragnouet, France
This glacial lake sits at an elevation of approximately 7,270 feet (2,215 meters) in the Pyrenees mountains and covers roughly 12 acres (4.8 hectares) with clear waters reflecting surrounding peaks.
The lake formed during the last ice age when retreating glaciers carved out the valley and created a series of connected mountain lakes in this region of the Hautes-Pyrénées department.
Local shepherds have historically used the surrounding high-altitude pastures for grazing livestock during summer months, and the area became accessible to hikers with the development of alpine tourism in the early twentieth century.
Visitors can reach the lake via a marked hiking trail starting from the Artigusse parking area at 5,220 feet (1,593 meters), requiring approximately two hours and fifteen minutes of uphill walking with proper mountain gear recommended.
The lake is part of a trio of connected lakes known as the Bastan lakes, with a mountain refuge perched on its southern shore providing shelter and refreshments for hikers exploring this protected natural reserve.
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