Climbing Vignemale F/PO-001 in Winter: A Personal Adventure
Vignemale is one of my favorite summits in the Pyrenees, and this winter, I had the chance to climb it once again, starting from Cauterets Pont d’Espagne. The approach from here is straightforward, but the real challenge begins as you ascend through the snow-covered terrain, with the peaks gradually coming into view. I spent two nights at the Refuge de Baysselance, which was a great base for the climb. The refuge is well-situated and comfortable, offering the perfect place to rest before tackling the summit. Despite the cold, the atmosphere inside was warm, and the views from the refuge were spectacular, with the snow-covered mountains all around. The climb to Vignemale’s summit was demanding but rewarding. Winter conditions made it a bit more technical than usual, with ice and snow covering much of the route. But, with the right gear, it was manageable. Reaching the top, I was reminded of why Vignemale is such a special peak—its rugged beauty and the sense of accomplishment after completing the ascent. Overall, it was a fantastic trip. The two nights at the refuge allowed me to take in the surroundings at a relaxed pace, and the climb itself was as enjoyable as ever.
