Sanctus Tower

Departure from Gourette at 1350 m for an ascent of + 1200 m in altitude to the summit of the Sanctus which is at 2482 m. Between 3h and 6h the loop. From the snow front of the station, take the direction of the sheepfold then pass on the left above the departure station of the Cotch chairlift and follow the sports course. A second departure is possible from the Cardet car park (start of the GR10) cross the wooden footbridge then turn left, follow the white and red markings. Take the path that climbs on the grassy hilltop and follow the red and white markings of the GR10 . Cross the bridge over the stream and pass a somewhat steep passage in the wood of Saxe. Continue on the side until you see the Coste de Goua cabin. Leave the Coste de Goua hut on your left and follow the grassy path towards Lake Uzious (yellow markings and regular cairns).

2 possibilities for the ascent, The 1st: do not follow the GR10 which goes up to Lake d'Anglas (red and white markings). A succession of fairly steep steps and flat crossings brings you to the passage of the rocky step (the waterfall is on your left). Follow the metal pipe to the right, being vigilant (keep the pipe on your left), a fairly steep slope along the penstock. The path quickly leads you to the lakes of Uzious and Lavedan which you follow on the left to the Col d'Uzious. From the pass, follow the path to the left (yellow markings and regular cairns) then follow the path that goes around the ridge by the right. Follow the few switchbacks that take you to the Sanctus ridge line to the top.

Continue along this ridge for a few tens of meters then descend to the right on a crossing to arrive at Lake Superior, the first lacquerer visible from the ridge. Follow it along the right bank to arrive at Lac de Louesque then at Lac Inférieur. An alternation of short jumps and hollows brings you up the grassy slopes towards the Coste de Goua hut where we advise you to descend by the GR10. Second possibility, follow the GR10 to Lac d'Anglas, continuing on the path which winds upwards towards the south. The route bypasses the lake on its left, crossing the old mines (iron - danger closed to the public) which rises on the south side. Follow the path towards the lake of Uzious and Lavedan then follow the path or the path on the rise towards the Col d'Uzious and the Pic du Sanctus.