Since the year 2000, about twenty llamas—introduced there by a breeder from the Campan Valley—have been living on the summer pastures on both sides of the Tourmalet Pass.
According to the breeders, these animals have adapted well to the mountain environment.
Llamas are used around the world as pack animals, but also to herd and protect sheep and goats, and could provide an eco-friendly solution for keeping dogs, wolves, and bears at bay.
The llama is native to South America. Before the Spanish arrived on the South American continent, the llama was the only domesticated animal there. Used as pack animals, they were also highly prized for their fur and meat, serving the same purposes as horses, oxen, and sheep.
These llamas can be found along the trail to the Pic du Midi and Lake Oncet, a beautiful hike.
These llamas in La Mongie live in complete freedom and gather in herds. In the spring, if there is still snow on the Tourmalet, you can see them wandering through the resort’s streets.
As you climb toward the Tourmalet Pass from Barèges, a parking lot nestled in a hairpin bend marks the start of the hike to Lake Oncet.
High-altitude hiking accessible to everyone, with an elevation gain of 310 m.
This hike offers striking views, unforgettable panoramas, and lasting memories.
The Pic du Midi serves as the guiding point for this hike. Its altitude of 2,877 meters and its majestic presence evoke those mountains said to be the home of the gods.
Translated with DeepL.com
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