Lac d'Estom, Glacial lake in Hautes-Pyrénées, France.
Lac d'Estom is a glacial lake in the Hautes-Pyrénées at 1,804 meters elevation, surrounded by high mountain peaks. The water is exceptionally clear, allowing views deep into the lake basin.
The lake became a destination for explorers and mountaineers during the late 1800s when the Pyrenees region started attracting visitors. Interest in mountain exploration transformed these remote alpine areas into sought-after climbing destinations.
Shepherds have used the pastures around this body of water for generations, bringing their herds to graze during warmer months. This long-standing practice still shapes the character of the alpine landscape today.
Reaching the lake requires a walk of about 4 hours along marked trails from the La Fruitière parking area. Sturdy shoes and water are essential, as the route climbs steeply through exposed terrain with minimal shade.
The water clarity is remarkable, allowing visitors to see the lake bottom at depths exceeding 18 meters year-round. This transparency makes it one of the region's most distinctly clear mountain water bodies.
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