guided trekking in the
pyrenees
Have you ever seen a Great Pyrenees, the dog breed? Do you know how majestic they are? Now imagine the land where these dogs are bred from: wild and rugged mountain peaks, green rolling valleys and dense forests, roaming sheep (and the occasional cow and horses too), stone-built mountain refuges with home-cooked meals, glacial-fed streams that wind down each valley, waterfalls, fog in the morning, warm sun during the day, and bright stars at night. This mountain range feels secluded and pristine in the most spectacular way. It stretches from the Atlantic ocean to the Mediterranean Sea, separating the countries of Spain and France. We will experience both cultures as we spend six days trekking through some of the best spots this range has to offer. There will be challenging days hiking up and over mountain passes and rewarding moments where we will take a swim in a shallow river or deep swimming holes. This trek will be calling you to visit the Pyrenees again for years to come.
trip highlights:
Explore the tallest waterfall in the Pyrenees in the Cirque de Gavarnie
Stay at a traditional mountain refuge with spectacular views
Trek through a few of the most beautiful national parks in all of Europe
Itinerary
july 23rd-30th
day 1
Arrive to Lourdes
After arrival in Lourdes you will have the opportunity to visit the famous Cathedral in the city center and explore the historic town before a welcome dinner and briefing for the trek beginning the next day.
day 2
Day Hike the Cirque de Troumouse
We will transfer to the small mountain hamlet of Haas tucked into a beautiful green valley of the French Pyrenees. From here we will begin our first hike into the Cirque de Troumouse to a pristine glacial lake. We will finish back in Haas where we will be stay at a cozy mountain inn.
Distance: 7.5 miles Elevation gain/loss: 3000ft
day 3
Haas to Espuguettes
Today's trail leads us through gorgeous green valleys, meandering streams, and over scenic mountain passes to the incredible mountain refuge of Espuguettes, where we will have the opportunity to stay the night high in the mountains.
Distance: 10 miles Elevation gain/loss: 4400ft /2800ft
day 4
Cirque du Gavarnie
The Cirque de Gavarnie is one of the most spectacular places in the Pyrenees and it is home to the tallest waterfall in all of the Pyrenees. We will explore the beauty of this places before making our way to the charming town of Gavarnie where we will stay for the evening.
Distance: 5.5 miles Elevation gain/loss: 600ft / 3500ft
day 5
Puerto de Bujaruelo
Today we will leave behind the French Pyrenees as we cross the border into Spain through the high mountain pass of the Puerto de Bujaruelo. We trade our “bonjour’s” for “hola’s” as we wind our way to the valley floor where we will stay at a charming Spanish inn beside a beautiful river.
Distance: 8 miles Elevation gain/loss: 3500ft
day 6
Bujaruelo to Torla
Today we follow the river downstream to the medieval Spanish town of Torla. Along the way we have the opportunity to stop and swim at some of the most beautiful swimming holes along the river. In the afternoon we will wander around the narrow cobblestone streets before we settle down for the night in our marvelous hotel.
Distance: 6.5 miles Elevation gain/loss: 2000ft
day 7
Explore Ordesa Canyon
We will begin with a ride to the mouth of the Ordesa Canyon where we will hike into one of Spain's most beautiful National Parks. At the far end of the canyon we will make our way to another breathtaking waterfall and a gorgeous view back down to the entrance of the canyon. We will spend our final evening together in the magical town of Torla with a fantastic celebration banquet dinner.
Distance: 8 miles Elevation gain/loss: 2500ft
What’s included with your trip?
Accommodation
7 nights total
4 nights in 1st class local hotels
2 nights in charming mountain inns
1 night in a traditional mountain refuge
Food: 7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners
All transportation starting from the gateway city of Lourdes to the departure city of Barcelona
Daily Luggage transfers
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