The Pocket HRP Guide West to East – November 2019

Introduction
The route is described from West to East which does mean that climbs in the first part of the day are often in shade & the
high passes encountered from Section 4 onward do get progressively more technical giving some opportunity to assess
snow conditions, etc.
Rather that provide a daily itinerary (e.g. 45 days coast to coast) the Pocket Guide is divided into 13 sections with each
section being between the potential resupply points; it’s up to the individual to decide how many days each section will
take. Each section is provided with the overall distance, ascent & estimated duration; the distance & ascent presented are
computed from the GPX data using the Garmin Basecamp software, the stage durations have been compiled from my
own experience. The time element is pretty subjective & some will find my pace slow & others fast, something the
individual will work out for themselves on-route. The times do assume that the walker is trail fit & travelling fairly light
(not lugging a 20kg pack); I usually travel with a base weight of around 6.5kg giving a mag load of ~13kg carrying a
weeks’ resupply. Each section is broken down into ‘legs’ which have distance, ascend & duration attributed; usually these
legs will terminate at location where bivouac is possible, there’s usually many more interim bivouac opportunities to be
found.
Section notes:
The overall primary route is around 787km long with 52.6km ascent (according to Garmin Basecamp); about 325hrs of
walking. Each section is provided with individual GPX files & also an overall KML (Google Earth) file.
Getting to the start: Main line train service to Hendaye; flights into Biarritz with good bus service from airport to
Hendaye (#816 hourly); flights into San Sebastian & then walk around the bay through Irun.
Section 1: Hendaye to Les Aldudes: [62km; 3410m, 21:30hrs]
No particular difficulties, rolling hills, good FP’s, forest tracks & route follows GR10 & GR11 for some distance with
their good waymarking. Plenty of camping opportunities on the higher ground but finding water may be an issue. The
Basque low cloud may spoil the views & complicate navigation.
Hendaye, a supermarket passed c100m from the start, with alcohol (fuel) & foodstuffs.
Les Aldudes has a good supermarket (at the garage) carrying a good range of foodstuffs & alcohol
Section 2: Les Aldudes to Lescun [98km; 5500m, 35:50hrs]
The Basque low cloud may spoil the views & complicate navigation in the early stages but the scenery gets better with
distance!
Lescun has a small supermarket which carries a good range of foodstuffs & alcohol; campsite/ refuge about 1km on next
stage.
Access: Buses to/ from Pont-de-Lescun c5km down the valley on the D239 to Oloron-Sainte-Marie
Section 3: Lescun to Candanchu [36.3km; 2580m, 14:30hrs]
The small shop in Candanchu has a limited range of basic foodstuffs & easy-clic gas cartridges, I’d advise stocking up in
Lescun for the journey through to Gavarnie & using the shop for top up. No campsite but plenty of Refuges, etc.
Access: Buses N to Oloron-Sainte-Marie from Col Somport & S to Jaca from Candanchu
Section 4: Candanchu to Gavarnie [76km; 5300m, 35:35hrs]
There are 3 high cols to traverse, each increasingly more technical with the probability of snow.
The small supermarket in Gavarnie has a reasonable range of foodstuffs & alcohol, Sports shop has easy-clic gas
cartridges, campsite ½ km S of town; Luz St Sauveur is a short bus ride N has a large supermarket & sports shops.
Access: Bus from N to/ from Lourdes.
Section 5: Gavarnie to Besurta [102km; 8530m, 47:35hrs]
Several high passes & exposed ridges to traverse; near the end of the section both the Col des Gourgs-Blancs, 2877m &
Col Inferieur de Literole, 2983m, can be problematic with probable snow cover. Most backpackers will use the Refuge
Portillon in staging the passage of these high cols however it’s possible to avoid this by using a bivouac at Lac des
Isclots, end leg 5.13, & then traversing Col des Gourgs-Blancs & Col Inferieur de Literole in one day to bivouac in the
Remune valley, c15km, 1320m ascent & 9hrs.
The variation via Parzan offers an early resupply; shop at garage with a good range of supplies, 2 other supermarkets in
town but they tend to cater for cross border shoppers (5L bottles of whisky, etc).
No resupply is available in Basurta but Benasque has 3 good supermarkets (alcohol), it’s usually an easy 10km hitch S,
OR from the end of June until mid-October the ‘Cloud’ bus runs down to town at 5pm & 7pm then back up the valley at
7:30am & 9am, ~€8. Sports shops sell both easy-clic & screw top gas canisters. Two camp grounds available c3km N of
Benasque. Benasque has a twice daily bus service to Barbastro.
Section 6: GR11 Var: Anescruzes to Espitau de Vielha [45km; 2580m, 17:10hrs]
Variant avoids the high cols on the primary route (end of Section 5.11 to 5.17 & Section 7.1 to 7.5), route passes though
Puen de San Chaime (Camping Aneto), near Benasque, so resupply is straight forward.
Section 7: Besurta to Salardu [45km;2865m, 18:40hrs]
The last significant obstacle on the route is encountered on the first day, the Col Mulleres, 2928m.
Variation via Port Bonaigua bypasses Salardu hence provisions for through journey to Arinsal/ El Serrat to be considered.
Salardu has a small shop with a limited range of foodstuffs & recently has closed the end of August. No campsite in
village but a number of Gîte/ Refuge.
Access: Salardu has frequent bus service to Vielha e Mijaran (until end of Sept) & during the summer there’s a twice
daily Parc bus between Espot & Pla de l’Ermita via Port Bonaigua.
Section 8: Salardu to Arinsal [83km; 6965m, 40:20hrs]
The route has sections that have faint trails requiring good navigation & some improvisational skills, may be particularly
challenging in poor weather.
Variation via Port de Bouet & Arcalis ski area to El Serrat. El Serrat has a number of Hotels & there is a bus service to La
Massana where there’s a good supermarket, gite & hotels.
Variation via Graus - Tavascan which has a small shop with a limited range of basic foodstuffs
Arinsal has 2 reasonable supermarkets & bus service to Andorra la Vella, no campsite but a number of hotels.
Section 9: Arinsal to L'Hospitalet-pres-I'Andorre [51km; 4070m, 23:25hrs]
The route has sections that have faint trails requiring good navigation & some improvisational skills, may be particularly
challenging in poor weather.
L'Hospitalet-Près-L'Andorre has a small shop with a limited range of basic foodstuffs, recently only open July & August.
Campsite about 400m N of station, also Gîte. It’s also practical to take the short (30 min) train ride to Ax Les Thermes
where there’s a good supermarket, hotels & campsite.
A variation via Pas de la Casa is included which has a good range of food shops + lots of stuff for the cross-border
shoppers, no campsite but plenty of hotels.
Access: Mainline trains S to Latour de Carol & N to Toulouse from L'Hospitalet-Près-L'Andorre; Pas de la Casa has bus
service to L'Hospitalet & Andorra de Vella.
Section 10: L'Hospitalet-pres-I'Andorre to Bolquère [37km; 1970m, 13:20hrs]
A short stage, relatively straight forward apart from the unpleasant loose climb up Carlit.
The small shop in Bolquère has a good range of foodstuffs & alcohol, there’s also a large Casino supermarket about
800m off route in Super Bolquère (turn R on D618 c1km before the village).
Access: Bolquère has a frequent 1€ bus service to Perpignan & Latour de Carol
Section 11: Bolquère to Arles-Sur-Tech [85km; 4165m, 29:25hrs]
A straightforward section with no real difficulties, good walking on high ridges, thunderstorms always a risk.
The supermarket in Arles carries a good range of foodstuffs & alcohol, campsite & a number of hotels
Access: A frequent 1€ bus service from Arles to Perpignan & Latour de Carol
Section 12: Arles-Sur-Tech to Le Perthus [40km; 2615m, 15:30hrs]
Straight forward as trail predominantly follows the GR10, lots of walking on forest tracks & some minor Rds.
Several supermarkets in Le Perthus but they tend to cater for cross border shoppers (5L bottles of whisky, etc), I’d
recommend only planning on purchasing top-up supplies e.g. bread, cheese, sausage, etc. Not the kind of place most
trekkers would be thinking of staying for long
Access: Frequent train service to Perpignan also the 1€ bus service.
Section 13: Le Perthus to Banyuls [31km; 1665m, 11:50hrs]
Straight forward as trail predominantly follows GR10, plenty of bivouac opportunities but water may be problematic.
The campsite in Banyuls is frequently very busy in July/ August, particularly on a weekend, you may not get a pitch!
Large supermarket next to campsite. Some trekkers have found discrete pitches along the coastal path North of town.
Access: Good train service to Perpignan & also a frequent 1€ bus service.
Nomenclature
To reduce the guide’s bulk a lot of abbreviations are used within the text, 99% should be self-evident but here the list:
Blg building
Br bridge
BM border marker (stone or cross)
c circa (approximately)
B bivouac
CP Carpark
FB footbridge
FP footpath
HT high tension line (overhead cable)
L left
LHS left hand side
NP National Park
R right
Rd road
RHS right hand side
W water
WP waterpoint
General Notes.
When to start? Generally, a start early July from Hendaye will be practical for traversing the high cols without too much
snow. However, after winter with high snow fall departing 2 or 3 weeks later may be advisable, there’s always a catch
though, starting later means that the weather approaching the Mediterranean will be hotter & water may be an issue.
The route passes through a number of national parks (French, Spanish & Andorran) & camping is not allowed outside of
recognised camp grounds however an overnight bivouac is permitted between 19:00 & 09:00hrs, restrictions are usually
posted on the trail signage; fires are also prohibited in the NP’s.
Shops: generally, in the smaller towns & villages they’ll open from 8 or 9am to 1pm then 4pm to 7 or 8pm, Sundays’ they
may only open in the morning or not at all. The shops in Candanchu & L'Hospitalet-pres-I'Andorre have in the past only
been open in July & August.
Thunderstorms are probably the most significant risk in the mountains; they tend to brew up for late afternoon & can be
quite spectacular with heavy hail (1cm+) & rain; lightening doesn’t take prisoners, be warned!
There little risk in encountering dangerous wildlife, yes there are a few bears but I’ve only ever seen ‘sign’ in the Ariege;
the Pyrenean Viper may be seen, don’t mess with them, it could prove painful or worse! The high country in summer is
cattle habitat some of which can be a bit tetchy, I’ve learned to be cautious (having been ‘bounced’ twice) & keep clear
where practical. It’s highly likely you’ll bump into a Patou (Pyrenean mountain dog) guarding sheep, they’re very big,
loud, have the habit of appearing from nowhere & will come unnervingly close; best to steer clear of flocks if possible.
The route utilises sections of the GR 10, GR 11 & GR 12 trails, these are generally well marked (red & white paint
flashes) making for reasonably easy navigation; where the notes mention a GR look for the flashes!
Costs: I usually budget on an average of around €25/ day (2019) on a typical Pyrenees backpacking trip (excluding travel
to & from). The use of the staffed Refuges may significantly increase this, typically ~€40 / night (dinner, bed &
breakfast) then there’s the temptation for a cold beer! Vino at the refuges can be reasonably priced, €3 – 4 for ½ L,
carrying an empty soda bottle can provide a bit of luxury if camping close by. Lunchtime is good for a stop at a Bar/ R,
typically a 3-course menu including water & wine can be had for €13 – 20, you can always take the wine away in your
soda bottle for later.
Maps/ GPS
The ideal would be to carry a full set of 50K ‘Rando’ series maps (maps 1 – 11 cover almost all of the HRP) but they’re
fairly expensive (around £150 in the UK) & unless you’re willing to get out a pair of scissors they’d be heavy, posting
maps to places along the trail would be possible to reduce the load but not totally reliable.
I generally use the Spanish 50k maps downloaded from Centro de Descargas in .tif format then printed out onto A4 ‘day
maps; the website isn’t the easiest to navigate & the maps not up to Ordinance Survey or French Rando series quality but
they work for me. Another source is Viewranger Pyrenees mapping this is a splice of the IGN France and Spanish CNIG
maps from which it’s possible to produce A4 day maps (not Rando quality) as well as having the mapping on the smart
phone.
For the smart phone I prefer the Orux Maps App loaded with the mapping from Topo Pirineos, the mapping is very
similar to OSM maps but have significantly more footpaths shown. Topo Pirineos can also be loaded onto Garmin
devices. One word of warning, some of the ‘footpaths’ shown on Topo Pirineos wander into the scrambling/ easy
climbing arena which may not prove practicable for a lot of folk carrying backpacking gear.
Section 1: Hendaye to Les Aldudes: [62km; 3410m,
21:30hrs] Good pitches throughout the section, water is
more problematic.
1.1 [10.5km, 520m, 3:30hrs] The route follows the GR10
to Col d'ibardin. Residence Croisiere, cross the roundabout
& head S down the Blvd du Marechal Leclerc to a 2 nd.
Take the 3rd exit (SSW), Rue des Citronneries, & follow it
to the bay. Bear L, walk along the shore for c1km, bear L
past the sport’s ground, cross the Rd & follow the Rue
Pellot for c200m to a roundabout. Leave the Rd here &
head S between a blgs for c100m to the Rue Subernoa.
Turn L, follow Rd to pass through a pedestrian tunnel to a
roundabout. Go straight ahead & climb E on the Chemin
de Biantenia until you reach the Blvd de l’Empereur,
D358. Bear L (E) for c150m to a Jct where the D358 turns
L, bear R climbing c300m further on the Rue de
Errondenia. At a T-Jct with the Rue Pausoa, turn R &
follow the Rd for c400m. Turn L (ESE) at high point, &
follow a track downhill. Ignore a dirt Rd to L continueing
along Rd for c1km to Jct with the N10. Cross the Rd, turn
L & follow the Rd E for 40m. Turn R onto a track
descending thro’ woods to a fork, bear R & follow a large
track that meets a Rd, near a few houses. Descend on this
Rd to a Jct, turn L (Route de Garlatz), follow minor Rd &
turn R on a small rise, HT poles. Continue on the Route de
Garlatz, ignore a minor Rd that branches off to the L &
turn L a little further on to descend to valley floor. Turn L,
follow the Rd for c100m, turn R at Jct & climb S passing
thro’ tunnel under the motorway, A63. Continue S on a
minor Rd, turn R at a Jct & after a short steep climb turn L.
Continue on Rd to a Jct, near a house, turn L follow the Rd
to a Jct, bear R & follow dirt Rd SE. Ignore FP to R, climb
on ridge to Jct below HT lines. Climb FP ESE to base of
HT pylon, bear R (SE) on FP crossing the W slope of the
mountain. Arrive at Col d'Osin, 374m, in c1.5km, signpost,
descend FP SE to Col des Poiriers, 316m, B, possible
water down to SW.
1.2 [3.5km, 220m, 1:15hrs] Climb SSE L of the forest
towards the Col des Joncs, 419m, bear L before the col &
climb E, to Jct just before a small stream (possibly dry).
Start of Variation avoiding La Rhune, see 1.2 Var. Turn
sharp L (N) & make a short climb to a small plateau, the
FP swings R to traverse the N slope of Mandale to meet a
forest track. Follow track E down to a tarmac Rd & go
down steeply on this Rd past Bar/ R & souvenir shops to
Col d'Ibardin, 317m.
1.3 [10.2km, 700m, 4:00hrs] Leave the GR10. Turn R
(S) & head into Spain for 50m, turn L & follow a minor
Rd NE climbing gently. After c700m leave the Rd, turn R
& walk towards the Restaurant Okalarre blg. Locate a FP
to L of blg following it for c800m to Jct with dirt Rd, turn
L (E) to Col d'Inzoia, picnic area & dirt X-Rds. Climb
track gently NE to a Jct with a dirt Rd, turn L & climb the
Rd across the S side of La Rhune. At the end of the climb
the Rd swings L (NW), c400m from summit blgs (just
past cabane on R) leave the Rd. Turn R, pass BM 25, bear
R (E) descending to pass BM 26 & 27. Continue to
descend FP (white-yellow) SE then S to fork at c660m,
bear R & descend to Jct (on small grass plateau) near BM
29, Jct easily missed. Bear R & descend the frontier ridge
SSW to reach the Col Gonmendia (315m, BM 32 & a
wooden hunters cabin) where several tracks meet. Climb
the RH of two parallel tracks (SSW), when the tracks
meet again take the R track at a Jct bear R. Turn L at the
next Jct to Col de Lizuniaga, 230m. Bar/ R, possible B
(enquire at Bar), WP (next to the Rd, a few metres W of
the blg)
1.4 [10.2km, 420m, 2:15hrs] Cross the Na4410, follow
concrete Rd that soon becomes a dirt track climbings
gently thro’ pastures. After 2km the GR11 (& 1.2 Var)
joins from R, continue on the dirt Rd that swings to the L
(NE) & climbs gently for c3km to Col de Lizarrieta,
441m, BM 44, Bar/ souvenir shop. Cross the Rd & climb
steeply SE on a dirt Rd & then descend to Col de Usategi,
475m, BM 46. Continue on the Rd (large stone shooting
tower on L) for c2km to Col de Nabarlatz, 477m, near
BM 50, where several paths/ tracks meet.
1.5 [10.2km, 660m, 3:50hrs] Continue on GR11. Turn R,
descend S thro’ bracken, in c200m turn L at a Jct &
descend thro’ woods to cross a stream. Climb on a muddy
track W, bear R at a fork & continue to farm, turn L thro’
farmyard & follow the Rd c700m to Jct, turn R, in c200m
turn L at Jct (picnic area, B&W). Climb on a dirt Rd S
through woods, cross the ridge (leaving woods) &
continue S down the dirt Rd. In c500m bear L (E) onto FP
thro’ bracken to Col de Irazako, 540m, large trees. Dirt
cross Rd’s, climb E on a dirt Rd, L of fence, under HT
cable. Continue on main track, ignoring turns, to reach a
complex Jct at Collado de Ursumia, 535m. Turn R (S)
climbing on dirt Rd, fork R at a col, & L 3 times on the
descent, then R along a FP contouring thro’ woods to join
a track just before Collado de Esquisaroy, 520m. Cross
the minor Rd, follow dirt Rd E for c50m, bear R onto FP.
Bear R at a Jct (small iron cross), fork R & L as climb
continues to join track joining from the L. Traverse W of
Atxuela to Collado Achuela, 795m, another iron cross, B
no W.
1.6 [6.3km, 40m, 1:40hrs] Leave the GR11 which
continues S, (see 1.6 Var). Turn L (NE) on FP that soon
swings R (SE) & descends to a ridge, continue down
ridge to a ruined farmhouse, c650m, B. Bear R down a FP
recrossing the ridge, c625m, & continue down to join a
dirt Rd. Follow the Rd down past a cemetery into the
hamlet of Azpilkueta, WP. Turn L & descend minor Rd
(N4457) for c2km to the N 121b. Cross the roundabout,
turn R (S) in c250m, just after blgs. Follow minor Rd
c200m, bear L, cross Br, bear L & follow track (yellow)
to Jct with minor Rd. Turn R (SW) to reach the centre of
Arizkun in c200m. Turn sharp L (NE) by park to find
butchers & small shop.
1.7 [12.6km, 850m, 5:00hrs] Follow the Rd NE from the
shop (white-yellow marks), pass the church, & in c250m
from shop turn R (SE) onto a concrete Rd. In c350m, just
past house on L, turn R (S) & climb a FP though woods
for c600m to rejoin the concrete Rd again (it’s also
possible just to follow the concrete Rd). Turn R & climb
gently on the Rd to a cattle grid, where it ends, ignore the
dirt Rd R to a farm & continue SE. Ignore a Rd to L,
continue climbing S to Jct, turn L & climb Rd to ridge
where the Rd turns sharp R (S, white blg 100m to N) &
climbs gently for c1.2km to Jct on a col, 695m. Bear R
(S) & continue climbing to the end of dirt Rd. Cross
fence, head S across pasture towards a wooded ridge.
Cross 2nd fence & climb S thro’ woods, follow the ridge
through an open area to the summit of Burga, 872m. Bear
L (SE) & descend a cairned FP alongside the forest to a
farm. Pass between the farm & a stone wall, continue SE,
pass under an HT line & follow a track to Jct at Col
Basabar, 685m. Climb SE on a dirt Rd (white & green),
the Rd turns soon into a FP. Enter a woods & arrive at a
Jct, c730m. Turn R, leave the white & green marks, &
head SSE on a track. Ignore a FP to R, at a fork bear R on
a levelish FP thro’ trees/ bracken, crossing 3 streams
(probably dry in summer) to dirt cross Rd’s at Col de
Berdaritz, 685m, BM 117. Bear R, descend a grassy track
(yellow marks) SSW thro’ woods, cross a stream, exit
woods to a Jct (near BM 119). Turn L (Aldudes visible
below) & go down SE on a dirt Rd which becomes a
minor tarmac Rd as you approach the village. Cross the
stream, turn R to Les Aldudes, 370m. Bar/ R, good
supermarket (at garage), camping possible, enquire in
shop.
Variation Avoiding La Rhune
1.2 Var [6.3km, 230m, 500m, 1:45hrs] Follow Section
1.2 for c1.2km to Jct by small stream. Turn R (S) & climb
to a ridge, descend E to meet a track which traverses
Mantalle across its S flank. Continue following the track
(Grt 3) for c4.5km, generally SSE, descending to Bera
(supermarket, etc).
1.3 Var [5km, 450m, 2:00hrs] Join the GR11. On RHS
of the square, head S up a concrete track, pass tennis court
& swimming pool to join a minor Rd. Continue for c1km
to a Jct on a bend, WP. Bear R up a track, then L & L
again past a house & onto a concrete track before forking
R up a track. Rejoin the concrete track & follow it to the
last house. Take the LH track, still climbing, then go
sharp L at a track Jct. Fork R up the ridge to Santa
Barbara, 396m, concrete bunker & various monuments,
B. Bear L (E) following the wood’s edge descending to
track Jct in c500m, continue straight on (E) up the other
side. At the end of the woods descend through fields to
join a concrete track to the R of a white blg to Collado de
Idoia, 269m. Bear R along a dirt Rd, forking L uphill.
Higher up, fork R along a track, turn L at a Jct by a barn,
Dornakuko Borda, & fork R when you return to the dirt
Rd by another barn where the main route is rejoined.
Variation bypassing Arizkun
1.6 Var [8.2km, 100m, 1:45hrs] From Collado Achuela
continue on GR11 (S) contouring W of La Rondam to
reach the Collado de lnaberri, 795m, B. Fork L (S), bear
L into woods, turn L down a good track & immediately R
along FP leading to Maistruzarraren Borda, spring just
after blgs. The FP joins a track & then forks R to reach a
Rd at Plano de Bagordi, 580m, picnic area, WP. Turn L
along the Rd & after about 1km fork L down a FP, the
first of several 'shortcuts' cutting the zigzags (probably
easier to follow the Rd down to path Jct c360m). Cross
the Rd for final time at c360m & continue descent, FP
joins a different minor Rd at c260m, turn L & follow the
Rd down to cross the N121 into Elizondo, turn L along
the main street to church on the R. WP in churchyard,
good supermarket.
1.7 Var [14.3km, 810m, 4:30hrs] Continue on GR11.
Turn R before church (Avn Monsenor Berecochea), a L &
R turns lead out of town. Bear R up a track in c200m,
soon forking R then L before rejoining the Rd. Follow the
Rd c100m then turn R along a grassy track which veers L
to a FP. Turn L at a track & immediately R. Turn R where
the track passes through a gate, then fork L up a FP,
passing to R of a farm. Join a track & turn R along a FP,
c360m, as Rd is approached. Continue climbing, cross a
concrete track & pass a spring. When the track
switchbacks R, bear L along a FP & pass a good spring.
Higher, cross a stream & climbing straight on to meet a
track, c470m. Turn R, then fork L at a switchback onto
major track. Keep straight on along a grass track when the
main track bends L, soon passing a WP (20m L of the
track). The track narrows to a FP & climbs gently to a
hunter's cabin, WP. Continue up to the Collado de
Urballo, 888m, B, continue straight on up the dirt track,
soon forking R up a FP, contour the N slopes of Pefia de
Alba-Lohilu to reach border fence close to BM 127.
Leave the GR11 ,which turns S, descend E to track,
c860m, turn L (NE) & descend track for c400m, bear R &
descend directly towards farm blgs. Bear L of blgs &
continue N down a winding minor Rd for c4km to Les
Aldudes.
Section 2: Les Aldudes to Lescun [98km; 5520m,
35:50hrs] Good pitches frequent throughout the section.
2.1 [5.8km, 550m, 2:30hrs] Climb a concrete stairway
opposite the garage (yellow marks), FP leads to Col
Lepeder, 495m. Over the col the FP swings to SE, crosses
the LHS of a ridge thro’ bracken to meet a track in
c500m. Bear L (SE) & follow the track to a Jct with a
concrete Rd. Turn R & in c60m meet a minor tarmac Rd,
barn & sheep pen on R. Turn L (NE) & continue to a Jct
in c400m, bear R (SE) & climb on Rd to a col (shepherds'
hut on R). Leave the Rd & climb E up a large track, bear
L when the track forks to reach a grassy saddle. Turn R
(S) & follow a gently descending large track. Cross a
stream & in c300m further gain another saddle, the FP
turns L (NE) climbing towards a clump of trees before
swinging R (E) & continuing to climb to Col de Mizpira,
832m, cattle trough. Follow a track S that climbs the ridge
for c700m to the summit of Errola, 909m. Descend the
track down the ridge steeply S on an obvious track which
joins a dirt Rd down to Col de Meharrozleguy, 738m,
sheep pen/ dip on your L. WP just before the pass.
2.2 [6.3km, 410m, 2:10hrs] Cross the minor Rd & climb
up thro’ woods on a track SE (old shooting butts along the
track) to ridge, c900m, & in c1km join a minor Rd. Bear
R (S) along Rd & in c1km reach Col de Teilary, 932m,
WP. Continue S for c1.5km to a fork, bear R & continue
for c700m to cross Rds at Col d'Hauzay, 965m, WP. Turn
L (S) & climbing the Rd for c2km to Col de
Burdincurutch, 1092m, BM 152, Shepherds' hut down to
L.
2.3 [3.8km, 160m, 1:10hrs] Leave the Rd & climb a
grassy ridge SSE to R of woods to the Redoute de Lindux,
1220m, BM 153. Descend ESE following the border
fence to the Col de Lindux, 1166m, BM 154, where the
Rd is rejoined. Turn R & follow the Rd for c2.8km to Col
de Roncevaux, 1057m, chapel & monument. Descend
GR65 c1km S for B&W.
2.4 [11km, 530m, 3:40hrs] Cross the N135 & climb E on
a minor Rd (GR12 markers) for c3km to Col Lepoeder,
1430m. Leave the Rd, turn L & follow a dirt Rd N for
c1.5km to Col d'Intzondorre, 1375m, Cabane Izandorre,
sleeps 2. Ignore Jct’s & continue NE for c2km. The dirt
Rd (GR65) swings to N, Fontaine de Roland, WP c200m
down Rd, leave the Rd turning R, GR marks, & climb to
col, BM 200. Follow the border fence E to Col
d'Arnosteguy, 1236m, near BM 205, small CP beside the
D428. Turn R (SE) & follow a broad track, GR marks, for
c1km to a col. Descend SE on a grassy track to L of
woods, cross 2 streams in valley floor & continue to Jct
with dirt Rd, c1020m. (Refugi de Azpegi, sleeps 20,
c500m down Rd to R). Turn L & climb gently for c300m
to a saddle where the GR12 leaves the Rd to R, see 2.5 &
2.6 Variation
2.5 [10.2km, 370m, 3:10hrs] Continue down the Rd that
makes a large zigzag, pass a WP on RHS, & in c1.7km
reach Jct with minor Rd at Col d'Orgambide, 988m, BM
212. Cabane d'Orgambide, small metal hut sleeping 4 just
N of Jct. Turn R & walk SE on the minor Rd, after
c2.5km pass a group of shepherds' cabanes (to L) & in a
further c400m meet a dirt Rd down to another. Leave the
Rd & descend L (N) towards a fence, descend steeply R
of fence to pick up a vague FP down to Pont de Chubigna,
746m. Cross the FB & climb gently N for c500m to a Jct.
Turn sharp R & climb on FP, cross a fence & continue to
a Rd at Col d'Errozate, 1076m. Ignore Rd & descend the
initially dry valley ESE for c1km to BM 223. Cross
stream & descent SE, B along stream, to Cabanes
Uhartegain, c925m, join the Rd & descend for c2km to Jct
& the closed Refuge Point d'Accueil Jeunes of Egurgui, B
alongside stream to S.
2.5 Var [9km, 260m, 2:30hrs] Leave the Rd following
the GR12 crossing pasture E towards woods to meet a
track, followed track E to join a dirt Rd in c1.5km. Turn R
(SE) & follow the Rd for c1.5km, bear L (WP c800m
about 60m to L), pass a reservoir & climb easily across
the flank of a broad ridge to a large saddle, c1160m. The
main route can be rejoined via an easy stroll N c2.5km to
Col d'Errozate. The GR continues E contouring the S
flank of Mendizar for c2km before descending SE, bear L
at woods & descend to cross the Ugurguy stream to a dirt
Rd. Bearing R at the woods for c300m leads down to the
Cabane Ugurguy, sleeps 15, B&W).
2.6 [3.2km, 480m, 2:00hrs] Turn R & cross Br, BS 224
by stream on R. Leave track & climb steep grass slope SE
then E keeping a shallow valley on R, no FP, to gain the
Urculu ridge, c1260m, where the GR12 is rejoined. Turn
L & follow FP along ridge for c1km to Col Curutche,
1286m. Bear L, NE, following the GR, pick up a track in
woods & follow it the short way to road head at Col
d'Oraale, 1303m.
2.6 Var [5km, 500m, 2:20hrs] Turn L (N) & follow the
Rd for c200m to a Jct, turn R & climb to a farmstead, the
GR passes L (N) of the blgs & climbs to the Urculu ridge
where the main route is re-joined.
2.7 [6.5km, 130m, 1:40hrs] Turn L (N) & follow a dirt
Rd gently climbing & passing W of Occabe to meet the
GR10 in c2km on a large grassy plateau with cromlechs.
Turn R (S) on GR10 this swings NE & joins a track
descending thro’ forest to the D18. Turn L, N, & follow
Rd for c700m to Refuge Atabea, sleeps 5, B&W. Bar/
R’s; Chalet Pedro to R & Le Kayolar (cheaper) on L.
2.7 Var [4.8km, 140m, 1:20hrs] From Col d'Oraale
climb ridge NE to summit of Occabe, continue NE &
descend to join GR10 in c1km & main route.
2.8 [5.8km, 450m, 2:20hrs] Continue along the Rd (N),
on GR10, for c600m to a fork (reservoir on L). Bear R,
D19, after c80m turn R & climb SE on dirt Rd to a col,
c1190m. Descend SE to rejoin the D19. Cross Rd & a
reservoir dam, after a few zigzags the track follows a
ridge E to meet the D19 again at Col de Heguichouria,
1320m. Turn L (turning R, SW, & climbing the minor Rd
leads directly to Col Mehatze bypassing Iranty) & follow
the Rd E to Col Bagargui. Gite, Bar/ R & small shop with
limited supplies.
2.9 [4.9km, 280m, 1:50hrs] Cross the Rd by the Bureau
d' Accuei & climb a minor Rd past a few chalets. Near the
highest chalet bear L (S) & climb a steep FP (signposted
'Crete de Millagarate') to the ridge, c1400m. Bear R
(SW), follow the ridge SW for c500m, turn L & descend
to Col Mehatze, 1385m, minor Rd from Col de
Heguichouria on R. Follow a track S then W climbing
past a cattle trough, B&WP, c100m past the trough a dirt
Rd in met, turn R then then immediately L at a Jct. Follow
the Rd for c700m, as the Rd swings L down to a cabane
bear R, SSW, onto a FP. In c2km the undulating FP
climbs to the Millagate ridge, 1460m, & in c200m meets a
dirt Rd by a derelict cabane.
2.9 Var [9.7km, 720m, 4:00hrs] Direct route to Pic
d’Ochy on GR12 bypassing Iranty. From the end of
Section 2.6 turn R (S) down a track to enter forest, bear R
at Jct in c200m. Follow FP down through forest for c3km
to join D18, turn R (S), in C500m turn L (E) into a dirt Rd
then immediately R. Follow trail climbing thro’ forest,
pass Cayolar D´Üthürtxarra, c1450m, & continue up dirt
Rd to X-Rds at c1530m. Leave Rd, bear R (SE), trail
descends shallow valley, possible stream, to join dirt Rd
& Jct with 2.10 Var.
2.10 [5.6km, 620m, 3:00hrs] Follow the dirt Rd SE for
c800m, c200m before a large cabane, turn L & climb
grass slopes to Col de Tharta, 1420m. Bear R (S) & climb
the grassy ridge (line of shooting butts) at c1670m the FP
turns SE & climbs more steepy on a limestone ridge,
narrow. A short descent to L, down scree, leads down to
the Brèche Zazpigagn, 1720m, climb S to ridge & cross
fence. Continue to climb SE to Pic d'Orhy, 2017m.
Follow FP descending S then SE to meet the D26 at Port
de Larrau, 1585m.
2.10 Var [6.4km, 420m, 2:30hrs] Poor weather
alternative to the ascent of Pic d’Ochy. Turn R (SW)
c100m beyond the cabane & descend track to Jct with
minor Rd, turn L & follow Rd for c800m to a Jct.
Continue on track (S) GR12, to its end in c2km, a FP
continues & after a climb to a col, 1565m, descends
gently to meet the D26. Bear L & follow Rd for c400m,
shortly before tunnel turn R onto a track, leave the GR &
climb on track to ridge, bear L passing a reservoir &
continue on FP, above Rd, to Port de Larrau.
2.11 [4.4km, 330m, 1:50hrs] Cross the Rd, pass BM
237bis, rejoin the GR12, follow the frontier ridge SE.
Pass over small summit to the Pic de I'Achourterrigagna,
1660m, BM 238. Continue along ridge; descend to Port
de Betzula, 1540m, BM 239; ascend to Betzulagagna ,
1590m; descend to Col de Bildocharreko, 1565m, BM
240; leave GR markers & climb E to Pic de
Gastarrigagna, 1732m, BM 241. Continue down the ridge
to Col Elhurrosoko, 1650m, BM 242.
2.11 Var [7.8km, 220m, 2:10hrs] Poor weather
alternative to the border ridge. Go down N on the D26 Rd
for 1km until a Jct. Turn R & follow a dirt Rd E that leads
to the Cabane d’Ardane.
2.12 [3.7km, 120m, 1:00hrs] Continue SE on the GR12
which is followed to Col d’Anaye (Section 2.14), after a
short climb the FP descends gently to the Col Uthu,
1663m, BM 247.
2.12 Var [5.2km, 300m, 1:50hrs] via Cabane d' Ardane.
Turn L (N) & descend grass slopes to dirt Rd. Turn R &
follow the Rd c1km to Jct, turn R for c1km to another Jct.
For Cabane d' Ardane, sleeps 12, turn L, pass R of
shepherds' cabane, bothy is ahead across the stream, B.
Bear R, cross stream & climb the track making a long
zigzag to gain a plateau. Where the track turns L, N, &
starts to descend, bear R, SE, & follow a grassy track for
c1.2km to Col Uthu.
2.13 [7.9km, 230m, 2:20hrs] Continue on GR, cross the
fence, follow track E for c1.5km to a col, BM 249, bear R
(S) & in c600m arrive at Port de Belhay, 1732m, BM 250.
Descend SE to cross a fence, descend a short way then
bear R climbing a vague path thro’ scree. Follow GR
markers across grass slopes to a steep climb to Col
Kartxela, 1813m. Descend E & in c2km reach Collado
Arrakagoiti, 1418m, descend on GR (ESE) to meet a Rd,
Na-137. Cross the Rd & in c400m reach the closed
Refugio de Belagua, 1425m, B&W. Latest reports
indicate that refurbishment of the refuge is underway &
may be completed in 2020; the previously unlocked basic
shelter is not available.
2.14 [10.5km, 740m, 4:20hrs] Pass refuge follow GR
markers E across the slope (not the ones descending SE),
cross a stream & follow cattle tracks E to enter a forest,
c2.5km the FP turns S in a small clearing, B, then swings
back E climbing thro’ forest to gain a col, c1600m. After
a short descent the climb is resumed thro’ karst landscape.
The GR12 turns abruptly S c200m before Col d' Anaye,
2050m, leave the GR & continue E, yellow marks, to the
col & descend E for c1km to Source de Marmitou,
1850m, B&W.
2.15 [8.4km, 80m, 2:30hrs] Descend E for c2km & cross
a FB c100m above Cayolars D'Anaye, bear R (yellow
flashes) & descend FP above the stream thro’ pasture &
forest for c1.5km to a steep descent to the Plateau de
Sanchese, 1090m, B&W. Cross a bridge bear R (SE) & in
c300m join a dirt Rd. In c2km the Rd becomes tarmac &
is followed into Lescun. Good small supermarket, Bar/R
& campsite c1km SW of town. Campsite was closed in
2018 & its not clear whether it will re-open in 2019
though it was possible to camp in an adjacent field.
2.15 Var [18km, 1930m, 9:00hrs] a rough passage along
the karst border ridge bypassing Lescun to rejoin the
primary route at Col de Pau (section 3.2); no water for
first 7hrs of the passage.
Follow FP climbing SW from Source de Marmitou to col
on border ridge, c2150m, close to Col Des Ourtets, follow
FP along border SSE to reach Col de Lhurs Ou de la
Table, 2289m, in ~750m. Ascent S to reach a saddle; La
Table, 2409m, is a gentle climb to L (SE); from saddle
head NW ascending to Pic De La Table, 2444m, by a
route to L (S). Descend WSW for ~700m to Jct ~ 2220m
before turning S & descending more steeply to Col D
´Escoueste, 2142m. Continue S following ridge for
~1km, FP takes a dog leg R (W) for c500m along a
limestone shelf before a short scramble gains the ridge
which is ascended E to Pic Ansabère, 2345m. Continue S
down border ridge to Col, 2083m, BM273, Jct with Senda
Camille. Ascend SSW to Col de Sobarcal, 2175m, climb
SW to Mallo de Acherito, 2344m. Descend to W for
c400m before turning S down to Collado Del Huerto de
Acherito, 2158m. continue SW for c400m to a 2 nd col &
descent SE for c1.8km to the derelict Refuge d'Archerito,
1707m, B&W.
Cross the stream & take a FP gradually climbing SE to
Ibon de Anchento, 1875m, cross the outfall & descend
gently SE on FP for c2km, turn NE & climb gently for
c1km, route turns E & after crossing a plateau climbs
more steeply to Col de Pau, 1942m, & Jct with route from
Lescun.
Section 3: Lescun to Candanchu [36.3km; 2580m,
14:30hrs]
Ample camping opportunities throughout the section but
within the NP bivouac restrictions apply (19:00 to 09:00).
3.1 [8.5km; 940m, 4:00hrs] Descend S from the village
on the GR10 to the Pont du Moulin, cross the bridge.
Leave Rd turning R to climb steep FP to rejoin the Rd at
Camping du Lauzart. Follow the Rd to a cross Rds,
continue straight ahead on GR (S) in c200m take a short
cut L to rejoin Rd by a house, cross the Rd & take another
short cut rejoining the Rd again in c300m. Leave GR.
Bear R & continue to climb on the minor Rd, S, passing
several farms & barns. About 3.5km from the campsite
the Rd makes a sharp turn to the R, barn on L. Turn L, E,
onto a dirt Rd, the Rd soon turns S into the Labrenere
valley, continue c1km to cross a bridge, bear R & follow
track climbing S for c1.2km to Pont d'ltchaxe, 1360m.
Cross the bridge, enter the NP, & climb SW, initially
through a forest & later open grazing to Cabane de
Bonaris, shepherd’s hut on a small plateau. B&W
3.2 [9.6km; 790m, 4:00hrs] Cross the plateau & climb S
to the Col de Pau, 1942m. Turn L & follow FP E to a col
where the FP turn S & climbs close to the border ridge.
Beyond Col de la Cuarde, 1960m, the FP swings E, away
from the ridge, to Col de Saoubathou, 1965m. Ignore FP
descending N & continue SE for c2km to the grassy
Lapassa plateau. Ignore FP descending to L & continue
for c1km to the staffed Refuge d' Arlet 2000m. B&W,
better ½ hr ahead.
3.3 [8.3km; 170m, 2:20hrs] Pass the lake’s N shore, the
FP turns L climbs to a col in c400m then turns SE to
descend past Cabane des Caillaous, 1890m. Ignore
turning to L & one to R & climb gently NE to Col de
Lapachouaou, 1898 m. FP turns SE to gain the next col
(1900m), a turn SW begins the descent to the Pia
d'Espelunguere. Pass the Cabane Grosse, shepherds' hut,
1560m, cross 2 streams & climb a few metres to the Col
Platriere. Leave the dirt Rd & descend a FP, SE, through
the forest to join a dirt Rd leading to Pla d'Espelunguere,
1400m. On leaving the trees bear L on a FP that cuts the
zig zags descending to cross the stream by a FB, B&W.
The dirt track can be followed c500m upstream to Cabane
de Espelunguére, sleeps 4.
3.4 [2.5km; 420m, 1:40hrs] A short climb S reaches a Jct
'Sansanet-Estaens' (signpost), bear R on FP, generally S,
climbing steeply on a vague path into forest, FP crosses a
stream 3 times & after a short steep section reaches a
concrete blg. Turn L (SW) & in c600m make the short
climb to Pas de l'Echelle, 1775m, bear L down the E
shore of Ibon de Astanes, 1754m, B&W.
3.5 [7.4km; 250m, 2:30hrs] Join the GR11 at the SE end
of the lake which is followed into Candanchu. Bear L (E)
& climb to a grassy col. Descend E c1km, cross stream
bear R at a Jct at descend gently for c1km to enter forest,
continue for c1km to Gave d' Aspe. Ford the stream via a
descending line (L) to a FP traversing eroded scree (not
the one visible directly across the gorge). Continue on GR
for c2km climbing to the Collado de Causiat, 1630m,
descend through the ski area to gravel Rd which meets the
Rd in Candanchu on a hairpin bend. Bar/ R’s, small but
reasonably stocked shop.
3.5 Var [9km; 380m, 3:00hrs] Useful if the Aspe is in
spate. Climb E along GR11 to Jct on grassy col, leave
main route & GR11. Descend E, cross Br to Sansanet CP,
join the N134 & climb the Rd for c1km, turn R at quarry
entrance, passing to L & continue S to join FP climbing
thro’ woods. On exiting woods bear L & climb to Collado
de Causiat & Jct with main route.
Section 4: Candanchu to Gavarnie: [75km; 5710m,
35:35hrs]
4.1 [3.5km, 180m, 1:10hrs] Climb Rd NE to Col du
Somport, 1632m. Bear R (NE) & continue along the Rd
towards Astun, bear L at a fork to reach Astun, 1710m.
Bar/R’s.
4.2 [4.7km, 440m, 2:10hrs] From the end of the blgs
climb on a dirt Rd for c700m then continue the ascent on
a FP on the E side of the stream to Ibon de Escalar,
2078m, B&W. Bear R, walk around the lake & climb E to
Puerta de Jaca, 2165m, BM 309. Enter NP, descend NE to
reach a Jct in c1.4km, bear R a descend E to Lac
Casterau,1960m, B&W.
4.3 [5.6km, 520m, 3:20hrs] Descend NE to cross a dirt
Rd near Cabane de la Hosse, 1721m, & descent to a FB
across the Gave de Bious. Continue ENE to Cabane de
Cap de Pount, 1643m. Climb NE on a vague FP, from
near the cabane, then more steeply E in zigzags before
bearing SE & climbing towards Cabane de Peyreget,
1920m. Pass N of the Cabane to reach a Jct, turn R (SE)
& climb for c1km to Lac de Peyreget, 2074m. S of the
lake bear L (E) at Jct, cross a short boulder field & climb
the steep/ loose slope to Col de Peyreget, 2300m.
Descend E passing the Lacs du Col de Peyreget c2220m
to the staffed Refuge de Pombie, 2032m, poor B.
4.3 Var [5.6km, 600m, 3:20hrs] avoids the unpleasant
Col de Peyreget. Climb S from Lac de Peyreget the lake S
to the Col de I'lou, 2194m., bear L & walk E for c2.5km
to a Jct at Col de Soum de Pombie, 2103m. Turn L &
descend N for c1km to Refuge de Pombie.
4.4 [5.6km, 100m, 1:40hrs] Descend S then E to follow
the stream down to Cabane de Pucheaux, 1720m. Pass R
of the cabane, bear L & follow FP down to the valley.
Cross the Gave de Brousset, 1350m, & after a short climb
reach the D934. The Cabane de Caillou de Soques, basic
bothy, is a short climb across the Rd.
4.5 [4.1km, 900m, 3:00hrs] Walk N on Rd for c100m,
signpost Refuge d' Arremoulit. FP climbs NE, cross a FB
on leaving the woods & continue to climb E to Jct at Col
d'Arrious (2259m), bear R & climb to Lac c1'Arrious,
2285m, good B to W of lake.
4.6 [4.1km, 100m, 100m, 1:00hrs] FP climbs a rocky
ridge SE then traverses along across a steep wall, steel
cables, the Passage de Orteig, technically straight forward
but airy. Descend across rough ground to the staffed
Refuge d' Arremoulit, 2305m, poor B.
4.6 Var [2km, 250m, 1:30hrs] Avoids the Passage de
Orteig. Bear L (NE) at Jct at Col d'Arrious Jct, descend
steeply to a Jct at c2090m, turn R (SE) & climb to Refuge
d'Arremoulit, 2305m.
4.7 [5km, 450m, 3:00hrs] Follow N shore of lake E for
c200m to Jct, turn L (ENE) & climb rough ground to a
lochan, continue to climb (SE) steeply through rocks &
scree (possibly snow) to the Col du Palas, 2517m.
Traverse NE & climb to Port du Lavedan, 2615m, a notch
in the ridge. Bear R (E) & descend to Lacs de Micouelou,
2300m & Lacs de Batcrabere. Beyond the lakes reach the
Breche de la Garenere, cross the gap & descend to the
staffed Refuge de Larribet, 2070m, poor B.
4.8 [3.2km, 0m, 1:10hrs] Descent NE on an obvious FP
that follows the Ruisseau de Larribet down to the Vallee
d' Arrens to a Jct near the Gave D’Arrens, B&W. Cabane
de Doumblas, 1563m, basic bothy across the stream.
4.9 [14.5km, 1230m, 7:00hrs] Col de Cambales can be
difficult with snow cover. Turn R (S) & after c500m the
FP joins the main track up the valley, continue S for c5km
to Port de la Peyre-Saint-Martin, 2295m. Turn L c50m N
of the actual col & climb NE to a small plateau at
c2400m. Route swings to R (E) climbs steeply around a
rocky outcrop. Ignore marked route to S & turn NE &
climb scree around a 2nd outcrop, c2500m, route turns E
again & climbs steep rough ground & possibly snow to
Col de Cambales, 2706m. Bear R, descend into bowl then
turn NE, FP bears R to descend E towards the Lacs de
Cambales. Passed to N of lake & continue to descend
ESE to a small plateau, cross a stream to a Jct, bear R (S)
& descend to the staffed Refuge Wallon, 1866m. B&W.
4.7 Var, [8.4km, 470m, 4:00hrs] avoids Col de
Cambales. From the Jct c200m from the Refuge de
Larribet, continue SE & ascend rough ground to Col
d'Arremoulit, 2448m. Descend steeply (S) to Ibon d'
Arriel Alto, at the lake’s SE shore bear R (SW) & pass
Ibon d' Arriel Baxo to the E. Take a FP ascending SW to
the ruins of blgs above a small lake (to E). Bear L (S), in
c3km the FP meets the GR11 near the Respomuso dam.
Bear L (E) & continue to a Jct close to the staffed Refugio
de Respomuso, 2200m, no B. Bear L, leave the GR11, &
continue up the valley passing a few small lakes, B&W,
to Embalse de Campo Plano, 2140m, B&W.
4.8 Var [7.7km, 540m, 4:00hrs] Pass S of the lake &
cross a stream to a Jct. NE from the Jct is an easy ascent
to Port de la Peyre-Saint-Martin rejoining the main route.
Climb E on FP to pass S of the Ibones de la Fache to the
steep final climb, possible snow, to Col de la Fache,
2664m. Descend E, well N of 2 lakes, pass a 3rd c2291m,
on its S side, cross the outfall & descend steeply to a Jct.
Turn L (E), cross a FB then a 2 nd, turn L (NE) & walk NE
to cross 3rd FB to Refuge Wallon.
4.10 [4.6km, 460m, 1:45hrs] Descend E for c400m to a
Jct, turn R (S), cross the stream by FB, in c200m cross 2 nd
FB over the Gave d'Arratille & climb S to Lac d'Arratille,
2247m, B&W.
4.11[4.6km, 400m, 2:30hrs] Continue S along the W side
of the lake & then climb to Col d'Arratilie, 2528m. Turn L
(NE) & traverse the S slopes of Pic Alphonse Meillon to a
steep climb to Col des Mulets, 2591m. Descend steeply
on the E side of the pass, possible large snowfields, down
to the Gaube valley, B&W. Follow trail c400m N to Jct
with the GR10, turn R to the staffed Refuge des Oulettes
de Gaube, 2151 m.
4.12 [3.5km, 580m, 2:20hrs] GR10 is followed to
Gavarnie. Climb an obvious FP SSE, then steeply E to a
Jct c2430m, bear R (S) & climb to Hourquette
d'Ossoue,2734m. Descend E to the staffed Refuge de
Bayssellance, 2651m, poor B.
4.13 [5.2km, 0m, 2:00hrs] Descend, initially SE, on
obvious FP. After c1km pass Grottes de Bellevue, 2420m,
3 damp manmade caves. Continue the descent to the
rocky Ossoue valley, cross the stream & continue SE to
the Barrage d'Ossoue, 1834m, Cabane de Ossoue, bothy
sleeps 4, B&W.
4.14 [11.5km, 320m, 3:30hrs] Cross a FB below the dam
& climb gently SSE for c1.5km to Cabane de Lourdes,
1947m, sleeps 6, B&W. Cross a FB over the Canau
stream, an easy FP contours the hill (N, SE then S) for
c2.5km to Cabane de Sausse-Dessus, 1900m, sleeps 2,
B&W. Cross the Sausse by a FB & continue to contour
around the hill to finally arrive at the D923, c1620m.
Cross the Rd & steeply descend to the Rd again in c300m,
cross the Rd again continuing down to Refuge de Grange
de Holle, 1495m. Follow the Rd down from the refuge,
c150m past a parking area to R, at a bend in the Rd take a
FP SE to a Jct, turn L to Gavarnie, 1365m. Good small
supermarket, Bar/R’s, campsite c1km S on track to
Cirque.
Section 5: Gavarnie to Basurta: [102km; 8530m,
47:35hrs]
5.1 [4km, 640m, 2:20hrs] Follow the Rd, S, towards the
cirque, c500m past the campsite turn L (signpost, ‘Refuge
des Espuguettes'), climb an obvious track SE, bear L at a
Jct (c1740m) & continue up to the staffed refuge, 2027m,
entering the NP, B&W.
5.2 [8.8km, 450m, 3:10hrs] Climb generally E in zigzags
on a well-worn path until the path forks at c2260m, bear
R & climb SE to the Hourquette d'Alans, 2430m. Descend
E down a zigzag FP (ignoring side turnings), at c2000m
the descent eases & the FP turns NE to reach the valley
floor, B&W. Across the stream is Cabane Estaube, sleeps
8, reached by a Br a little downstream. Continue easily,
leaving the NP, down to the Pont l’Espuguette, c300m
before Lac des Gloriettes, B&W.
5.3 [7.8km, 620m, 3:10hrs] Cross the bridge & climb FP
NE, cairns & yellow flashes, in c2km cross stream, B,
climb a little & join an old dirt Rd. Bear L & follow Rd,
c1km bear R at a Jct & again in c1km bear R contouring
around the hill towards the Aubergue le Maillet. Pass
above the Aubergue, continue S across small plateau,
cross the stream & climb steeply to join minor Rd. Follow
Rd for c2km as it climbs to its end at a CP.
5.4 [3.2km, 110m, 1:00hrs] Cross the CP & continue E
to cross a stream, c300m. Cabane de la Vierge, sleeps 4,
c100m to N. Bear R (SE) & continue on FP towards
cirque, B&W. FP swings E & descends to Lacs Des
Aires, 2100m, before turning generally N to reach Cabane
Aires, sleeps 5, B&W, in c1.2km.
5.5 [8.2km, 950m, 5:00hrs] Climb NE, stream to RHS, to
c2270m. Follow small cairns climbing first NW then very
steeply NE to Col de la Sède, 2640m. Bear R (SE) &
follow a FP contouring the N slopes of Pic de Gerbats to
gain Col de la Géla, 2678m, good B&W in corrie below.
Climb NE to Pic de la Géla, 2800m, descend initially NE
then N to Hourquette de Chermentas, 2439m. Descend E,
initially steep but descent eases as FP turns S, in c2km
ignore FP descending to L & continue to climb gently SE
to Lacs de Barroude, B&W. The steep ascent/ descent of
Pic de la Géla can be avoided by traversing N from Col de
la Géla directly to Hourquette de Heas to join the
variation.
5.6 [11.5km, 800m, 5:00hrs] Continue SE, cross the
lake’s outfall & climb S to the Port de Barroude, 2535m.
Turn E & climb the border ridge to Pico del Puerto,
2657m. Follow the border ridge E then N to Pico Del
Puerto Viejo, 2723m. Descend steeply E to c2580m
before turning N to regain ridge & descent to Port Vieux,
2378m, ~2hrs. Ascend frontier ridge NE to c2440m, bear
R (E) on faint FP climbing gently across grassy slopes for
c500m to gain ridge. Follow FP on S flank of ridge,
c1km, to Puerto de Bielsa, 2421m. FP climbs gently SE
through outcrops to gain a ridge in c500m, turn N &
climb more steeply to ridge. Follow the broad ridge E
over Pic de Bataillence, 2598m, to descend over c1.5km
to Puerto de Salcorz/ Héchempy, 2478m. Continue SE
climbing the ridge to c2500m, c300m past BM 324. Bear
L (NE) follow a FP traversing across scree slopes for
c1km, FP descends N to an area of small lochans &
possible streams, B&W.
5.7 [10.8km, 1200m, 5:30hrs] Continue E, descend a
little to pass a lochan, c400m beyond the FP turns S &
makes the short ascent to Port de Moudang, 2495m,
possible small lochan. Climb faint FP thro’ scree to col,
2740m, c150m S of Pic de Lia. Descend E down very
steep FP, orange markers, to Jct c1900m. Hospice de
Rioumajou, B&W, is c1km L in the valley below. Turn R,
E, & follow descending FP to a Jct in c800m. Turn R, S,
& climb FP, GR markers, to Puerto de Urdiceto, 2400m.
Descent S to join dirt Rd at c2200m, turn L & climb on
the Rd for c1km to Collardo Urdiceto, 2326m.
5.3 Var [5.6km, 110m, 1:30hrs] Low level variant via
Heas. Continue NE & pass around the lakes W shore &
cross the dam. Turn L & follow the Rd down to a Jct with
the D922, turn R, SE, & follow Rd c2.2km to Heas,
1500m. Auberge de la Munia good meals & campground.
5.4 Var [12km, 1440m, 6:30hrs] Continue on Rd c300m,
bear L thro’ parking area, in c100m turn L (NNE) &
climb obvious FP with numerous zigzags. Ignore a FB on
your L, c1750m, by a water intake & continue climbing to
a small plateau. In c200m Cabane de I' Aguila, sleeps 4,
on the opposite bank, B&W. Continue upstream, enter
NP, in c400m the FP turns SE & climbs to another small
plateau. Cross stream, pass Cabane d'Aguillous, 2230m,
Sheppard’s hut, & climb E in zigzags to Hourquette de
Heas, 2608m. Descend steeply NE for c400m, bear R (E)
at Jct c2450m, traverse the slope descending gently for
1km to a Jct at c2340m. Turn R (SE) & climb to
Hourquette de Chermentas, 2439m. Descend E, the
initially steep descent eases as FP turns S at c2340m to
traverse the mountain. In c2km ignore FP descending to L
& continue to climb gently SE to Lacs de Barroude.
5.6 Var [6.5km, 200m, 2:00hrs] Cross lake’s outfall &
climb to Port de Barroude, 2535m. Descend zigzags (S) to
the valley floor. Refugio de Barrosa, bothy sleeps 10,
B&W.
5.7 Var [11.6km, 480m, 3:40hrs] Cross the stream below
to bothy, bear L & descend FP to meet a track which
leads down to the Rd, A138. Turn R & follow Rd S for
c4km to Jct, signposted “Lago Urdiceto 11”. Parzan is
1.5km down the Rd; Petrol station with café & good shop,
plus 2 supermarkets catering for cross border shoppers.
Climb the Urdiceto Rd for c4km (~2hrs) to Bordas de
Puyales, 1620m, the 1st good B&W on the climb.
5.8 Var [5.8km, 780m, 1:50hrs] Continue up Rd for
c3km to hairpin bend, continue straight ahead (E),
following GR11 markers. FP rejoins the dirt Rd again
near the power station dam, c300m up the Rd is Cabane
de l'Embalse d'Ordizeto, sleeps 2-3, basic, B&W.
Continue to climb on Rd for c1km to leave it at a hairpin.
Follow FP, GR11, climbing SE to rejoin the Rd again
after a short steep section at Collardo Urdiceto, 2326m.
5.8 [6.5km, 120m, 1:45hrs] Leave the dirt Rd turning L
(E), follow GR11, & in c150m pass the Cabane du Col de
Caballosa, sleeps 2, no W. Continue E for c1km to gain a
ridge, after descending gently E the FP descends more
steeply N towards the Barranco de Montarruegos, B&W.
Cross the stream by a FB c2000m, bear R & follow FP
SE, cross a marshy section & decend thro’ pine woods to
join a dirt Rd in an open area, on R the Cabaña de
Sallena, sleeps 2, very primitive, no W. Follow Rd E as it
descends to cross a stream then climbs to a col, continue
on Rd for c200m & turn R (SE), FP makes a number of
shortcuts as the Rd descends in zigzags. Cabaña de
Llisier, c1720m, B&W, sleeps 4, is to R of track.
5.9 [4.8km, 240m, 1:40hrs] Follow descending track to
meet minor Rd in c2km, turn L, in c1.5km pass Camping
Forcallo,1580m, good Bar/ R. Leave the Rd just past the
campsite, taking a short-cut that crosses the Rd & climbs
more steeply to join it again, turn R. Follow Rd a short
way & bear R down to Br (No B allowed near the staffed
Refugio de Viadós). Follow track, GR11, past a number
of barns to a Jct in c600m. The GR11.2 leaves to R, an
excellent but tougher alterative to the main GR11 to
Benasque, B spots can be found down by the stream.
5.10 [3.4m, 390m, 1:30hrs] Continue on NE on GR11 for
c3km as the FP climbs above the stream to the confluence
of 3 streams. Cabane d'Anescruzes, sleeps 4, is on grassy
knoll L above the trail. Start of GR11 variation see
Section 6.
5.11 [5.7m, 630m, 3:15hrs] Cross 2 streams, leave the
GR11, climb NNE follow a faint FP with cairns with
small stream to L to a small hanging corrie, c2300m, good
B&W. At the head of the corrie the FP turns NW
climbing steep scree alongside the stream & crossing it
several times, pass a tiny lochan to Puerto Superior de
Aigües Tortes, 2682m. Descend very steeply NNE,
zigzags down scree, to reach the valley, the rough FP
follows the stream for c2.5km to Refuge de Prat-
Cazeneuve, 2020m, sleeps 8, good bothy, B&W.
5.12 [5.6m, 500m, 2:30hrs] Pass the hut to Jct in c100m,
(continuing down the valley to the staffed Refuge Soula,
B&W, & then ascending Lac de Caillauas is c3km & c1hr
longer), turn R (ENE) & climb towards Lac de
Pouchergues. Cross the lake’s outfall, c2100m, & follow
a path traversing around the hill, pass thro’ a metal blg
onroute, to join the route ascending from Refuge Soula at
c2050m, just below Lac de Caillauas. Turn R & climb to
dam. Refugio de Caillaouas, sleeps 4, is just below dam,
B&W.
5.13 [3.4m, 390m, 1:10hrs] Cross the dam, 2160m, &
climb S on faint FP up thro’ alpenrose, FP becomes more
defined as it turns SE & continues to climb. Cross a
stream, c2340m, & climb E, cairns, to Lac des Isclots,
2398m, good B&W.
5.14 [5.4m, 680m, 3:50hrs] Climb obvious FP SE to Lac
du Milieu, 2510m, cross the outfall & pass S of the lake.
Climb SE to the small Lac Glacé, 2560m, continue to
climb SE up steep scree (cairns) to the Gourgs-Blancs
glacier. Climb gentler slope (snow, rock, scree) to Col
des Gourgs-Blancs, 2877m. It’s worthwhile ‘spotting’ the
next target from here; Col du Pluviometre c900m @
105deg. Descend steeply SE, snow & rock, into the large
bowl. Pass to N of small lake with Lac Glace du Port
d'Oo, 2659m, below to N & climb boulders & snow to
Col du Pluviometre, 2860m, rain gauge near the col.
Descend large boulders NE to a saddle, c2800m, & climb
a ridge to the rounded summit of Tusse de Montarque,
2884m. Descend N for c100m bear R & descend more
steeply to the staffed Refuge du Portillon, 2571m, visible
below. Very poor B.
5.15 [5.4m, 540m, 3:20hrs] Cross the dam, turn R & in
c100m turn L, climb steeply E on cairned FP. Steep scree
eventually gives way to gentler snow slopes leading to
Col Inferieur de Literole, 2983m, the highest pass on the
route. Descend the very steep E side of the col, probable
snow. Bear SE passing to N of a small tarn to traverse
above Lago de Literola thro’ rocks & snowfields to climb
E to Portal de Remune, 2831m. Descend SE, rough going,
to large bowl, c2600m, where the route bears L (NE) &
continues to descend steeply, boulders/ scree, to the
Remune stream. B possible here & c1km downstream
around the Remune lakes/ tarns.
5.16 [4.2m, 100m, 1:45hrs] Turn R (E) & follow the R
bank of the stream down thro’ a bouldery gorge for
c400m to cross the stream. FP descends to small plateau,
c2200m, with small Ibonet de Remune, B&W. Continue
to descend on rough FP, L bank of stream, to c1900m
where the FP bears L away from stream & enters pine
forest, B possible, & in c700m meets the Benasque Rd,
c1800m.
5.17 [4.9m, 250m, 1:40hrs] Turn L & follow the Rd to
about 70m from its end. Turn R (E) & descend FP to
valley, continue NE cross a few minor streams, cross 3
FB’s in a marshy plateau & cross the main stream by the
4th FB. Cross 5th FB towards Hospital de Benasque,
1760m. Bear L before the blg’s to recross the stream by a
FB. Turn R (E) & follow FP between wall & stream to
recross the stream again over another FB. Bear R at a Jct,
FP climbs in zigzags thro’ pines to a large plateau & the
Ibonets de Plan D´Estañ, 1861m, B&W. Keep L of the
lakes & in c1km meet the minor Rd to Besurta. Turn L &
in c250m bear R, just past cabane, faint FP rejoins Rd in
c1km at Basurta, 1920m, or just climb the Rd. Cloud Bus
to/ from Benasque terminates here.
Section 6 – GR11 Var: Anescruzes to Espitau de
Vielha: [45km; 2580m, 17:10hrs] Variant avoids the
high cols on the primary route (end of Section 5.11 to
5.17 & Section 7.1 to 7.5) & follows the GR11
throughout.
6.1 [4.6km, 530m, 2:30hrs] From the Anescruzes stream
confluence, cross the 3 streams, follow GR11 marks &
climb FP to Puerto de Chistau, 2572m. Bear R & make
the descent to the Rio Estos. B&W possible.
6.2 [11.4km, 80m, 3:00hrs] Descend LHS of valley
c3km to Refugio d'Estos, 1890m. Continue the descent
c2km to cross a bridge over the Estos, c1760m, pass a
cabane & descend on dirt Rd for c3km to Refugio de
Santa Ana, a basic bothy sleeping 6, W. Continue down
Rd to a CP, continue the descent on minor Rd to a Jct, just
past the closed Camping Chuise, turn R & follow Rd
down to Puen de San Chaime & cross the bridge to Jct.
Benasque is c35mins following track/ Rd to R,
supermarkets, Bar/ R’s, etc. Camping Aneto has good
Bar/ R & a small shop.
6.3 [3.3km, 200m, 1:00hrs] Turn L on dirt Rd, pass
Camping Ixeia continuing the climb on the Rd past
Embalse de Paso Nuebo to reach a Jct at Senarta.
6.4 [7.7km, 630m, 3:00hrs] Turn R up dirt Rd, in c500m
the GR11 takes a very steep shortcut up through the forest
(most prefer to stay on Rd). Turn R on rejoining Rd,
Cabane de Quillon (basic bothy, sleeps 4) is passed in
c1hr. The Rd ends in c3km at Puen del Corones, 1980m.
The Refugio Puen del Corones, sleeps 10, is visible across
the Br. Good B a short way ahead. The ‘Cloud’ bus
service also terminates here saving the 4hr climb from
Puen de San Chaime.
6.5 [2.5km, 530m, 2:20hrs] Follow track E from the
refuge to FP, turn R at Jct & climb to a plateau, c2220m),
good B. Bear R & climb to Ibon Inferior de Ballibierna,
pass along N shore & climb E to Ibon Superior de
Ballibierna, c2490m, good B.
6.6 [2.5km, 300m, 1:20hrs] Continue to climb on FP
thro’ boulders & possible snow to Collado de Ballibierna,
2732m. Descend SE, occasional boulderfields, to a Jct at
c2410m, near a stream, the staffed Refugio de Cap de
Llauset visible c300m SE. Turn L & climb alongside the
stream to Estany de Cap de Llauset, 2460m. Good B.
6.7 [2.4km, 70m, 1:00hrs] From the lake’s S end climb
SE to Collet Dels Estanyets, 2524m. Descend
boulderfield to the 3 Estanys Cap d' Anglios, pass along S
shore to easier terrain to reach Refugio d'Anglios, 2220m,
bothy sleep 4, good B&W.
6.8 [2.6km, 0m, 1:10hrs] Descend easy FP, NE, around
Estany Grau to a steeper rough descent to Jct with picnic
area, c1670m, by the Riu Ixalenques, B&W.
6.9 [3.6km, 80m, 1:00hrs] Bear R down an easy FP for
c2km to join the main N-230 Rd, turn L & follow Rd for
c500m, turn R down a track, cross Br. Turn L & follow
trail N for c1km to cross Br over the Barranc de Besiberri,
discrete B possible.
6.10 [2.6km, 160m, 0:50hrs] Follow track past a picnic
area, large CP park & staffed Refugi de Conangles, on
your L. Continue on track to cross Br over Barranc de Lac
Redon. Turn R up FP to Jct with main route just E of
Espitau de Vielha. B&W c500m ahead.
Section 7 – Basurta to Salardu: [45km; 2865m,
18:40hrs]
7.1 [2.4km, 170m, 1:00hrs] From roadhead follow FP SE
for c400m to Jct, bear L & climb to a plateau (c2030m),
bear R & in c1km pass the Forau de Aiguallut (large sink
hole) to arrive on the Plan d'Aiguallut (2050m). Good
B&W.
7.2 [7.9km, 1000m, 5:00hrs] Cross the plateau SE to
meet stream coming down E from the Valleta de Escaleta.
Cross the stream & climb the S bank up to a Jct on
plateau, c2190m. Bear R (SE) & climb FP, cairns, pass 2
tarns at c2340m to another at c2460m. Cross the outflow
& climb boulders SSW, climb eases at c2600m (Ibón Alto
de L´Escaleta to R). Climb polished slabs, cairns, S then
SSE, skirting the W flank of Tuc de Mulleres to the col.
Traverse N to the actual col, descent starts as a very steep
scramble down to boulders & possible snowfield.
Descend ESE keeping the highest lake Mulleres lake
down to R heading towards the 2 nd lake, pass this & the
following 2 lakes to N. Refugi de Mulleres, 2360m, large
hut, sleeping 18, painted grey & red, is rocky outcrop to N
of lower lake.
7.3 [5.5km, 125m, 2:00hrs] Follow FP down the valley,
rough going, keeping to L bank of stream. After c4km
join a track in the Pleta de Mulleres, 1620m, B&W. Bear
L, above the Vielha tunnel entrance to Espitau de Vielha
(closed refuge). Pass thro’ the courtyard & climb E to Jct
(Variant Section 6, joins here), join GR11 climbing E to a
track Jct in c500m, bear R & climb gently to a plateau,
B&W.
7.4 [4.8km, 660m, 2:50hrs] Turn L off the track just
before a Br over the Barranc de Lac Redon. Climb first E
then more steeply N, the gradiant eases at c2040m & FP
turns W. In c400m turn sharp R (NE) at a Jct & climb
more steeply to Port de Rius, 2355m. Continue NE, pass a
tarn then around N shore of Estanh de Rius to Jct at the
lake’s outfall, B&W.
7.5 [5.7km, 400m, 2:20hrs] Descend FP E, in c500m
pass spring from pipe on R with good B on small plateau
below. Continue down the valley for c2km to a Jct,
c1950m, bear R. Rougher going climbs over a ridge,
descends & crosses a stream then climbs over 2 nd ridge,
under HT line. An easier descent follows to cross dam &
reach the staffed Refugi de Restanca, 2010m. No B.
Climb SE on FP, at c2100m FP turns N & in c100m turn
R at Jct & continue climb to Lac deth Cap de Port,
2230m, B&W.
7.5 Var [7.1km, 260m, 3:00hrs] The scenic route. Turn S
at Jct, a FP (cairns) passes N of Estany Tort de Rius,
B&W, & climbs steady SE Collado d'Estany de Mar
(2468m). Descend steep zigzags to S end of Lac de Mar,
2260m, cross in flow stream to E side & follow FP
(cairns) NE to eventually descend to a Jct, c2100m, turn L
(NE), follow the FP to Refugi Restanca where the main
route is met for the climb to Lac deth Cap de Port.
7.6 [6.1km, 460m, 2:40hrs] Pass the lake’s N shore &
climb boulderfields to Coret d'Oelhacrestada, 2475m,
multitude of Jct’s. Follow GR marks E climbing gently to
a col in c500m, descend ESE to the S end of Estany del
Port de Caldes, B&W, & climb E to Port de Caldes,
2570m. Descend E to meet a stream in c1.2km, follow FP
down the L bank, good B along stream until the final
c500m descent to Colomers dam. Descend to old refuge,
cross the dam to Jct. Departure point for variation via Port
Bonaigua, see 7.7 Var.
7.7 [12.7km, 50m, 2:50hrs] Take FP (signposted Bahns
de Tredos) descending N to cross FB, join track & in
c400m meet a dirt Rd, 1980m. Turn R & descend Rd for
c1.2km, turn L on FP N thro’ pines. Cross a FB in
c1.2km, in c200m rejoin the dirt Rd & follow it N to
Bahns de Tredos, Bar/ R & CP. Cross the Br & follow the
minor Rd c8km to Salardu, 1270m. Small supermarket
(recently closed end August), no campsite, refuges,
hotels, Bar/R. Regular bus service W to Vielha ~every
30mins (until end Sept), also twice daily ‘Parc Bus’
running between Pla de l’Ermita & Espot, summer only.
7.7 Var [4.7km, 430m, 2:15hrs] Bear R (E), continue on
GR11, climb to a pass & Jct in c600m. Turn L (N), leave
the GR11, descend to pass N of Lac de Clòto de Baish,
2160m. Follow FP NE for c1km, just past old mine, FP
turns ESE & climbs to Coth Deth Tuc Gran de Sendrosa,
2456m. Descend E then S to the head of the Val de Ruda.
In c400m leave the FP to the staffed Refugi de Saboredo
& improvise a route down into the valley below. B&W.
7.8 Var [4.5km, 300m, 2:00hrs] Cross stream & join
track descending from the staffed Refuge Saboredo. Turn
L (N) & descend very rough track, going improves after
c2km from where dirt Rd continues to descend to a Jct
after another c1.5km. Turn R climbing N on FP, yellow
flashes, FP eventually swings E to join ski resort dirt Rd
below HT lines. Turn L (N) & follow track to C28 Rd at
Port Bonaigua, 2077m. Bar/R to L. B possible but not
ideal. During the summer there’s the twice daily bus
between Espot & Pla de l’Ermita. For continuation so
Section 8.1 Var.
Section 8 – Salardu to Arinsal: [83km; 6965m,
40:20hrs]
8.1 [11.1km, 1145m, 5:20hrs] Follow the Rd towards
Bagergue to Jct in c400m, bear L towards Unya, descend
& cross Br over Riu Unyola. Turn R pass a few houses to
join track (red/ white marks) which is followed to
Bagergue, 1420m. Follow minor Rd E to cross under HT
lines & turn R, cross stream & climb E then SE to join a
dirt Rd, c1590m. Turn R & in c1.8km cross the Rd to
Plan de Beret, follow a dirt Rd that parallels the minor Rd
NE for c1.5km to Jct with dirt Rd, signposted Parking
Orri. Turn R & follow Rd c1km to large CP. Continue E,
pass under ski lift to join dirt Rd, bear L (ESE), passing a
bar to pick up a FP that leads to Estany de Baciver,
2120m, in c2km, B&W. Bear L of dam, cross stream &
climb NE alongside stream to Estanys Rosari de Baciver,
2315m, on huge plateau, B&W. Two route options.
8.2 Opt 1 [5.1km, 450m, 3:30hrs] Via Tuc de
Marimanya. Continue NE passing the 2 lakes, bear L &
head directly for Tuc de Marimanya. Climb a very steep
slope (no FP) direct for the summit, 2678m. Descend NE
to a col then climb ridge to a summit, 2660m. Turn SE &
descent the steep ridge keeping Estany Gelat de
Marimanya to L. Follow ridge ENE to Col d'Airoto,
2500m. Descend steeply SE towards Estany d' Airoto,
grass slope turns to large boulders. Stay well above the
lake & traverse the slope. Once out of the boulder field
the faint path coming up from Refugi Gracia Airoto is
met, turn R & descend to the bothy, sleeps 12, B&W.
8.2 Opt 2 [4.3km, 325m, 2:00hrs] Direct to Refugi
Gracia Airoto. Bear R (E), pass S of a small lake to join
GRM 16 (yellow marks), FP turns ENE & in c800m
climbs to a col, c2500m. Descend E to c2300m, before a
small lake, bear L (NE) towards 2 smaller lakes which are
passed to S. Continue E across the plateau to Estany
Superior Del Rosari. Join the variation route (8.2 Var)
climb to col & descend to Refugi Gracia Airoto, B&W.
8.1 Var [4.9km, 380m, 2:00hrs] From Port Bonaigua
descend Rd SE for c800m to c2060m, bear L (E) up grass
slope to join FP climbing in zigzags generally NE. FP
traverses around the grassy ridge then climbs gently
above Bassa de Boscàs to small plateau, c2260m. Bear R
(NE) climbing for c400m to Coll de L´Estany Pudo,
2336m. Bear L (N) on FP that contours around & above
the Estany Pudo to a col, c2380m, N of the lake. Descend
ENE to Estanyoletes de Garrabea, 2260m, B&W.
8.2 Var [4.4km, 350m, 2:00hrs] Descend FP towards the
outlet of Estany de Garrabea, the route around the lake is
tangle of scrub & boulders. Follow the line of the outlet E
for c200m thro’ boulders, cross the ‘stream’ & improvise
a route NE. Pass the foundations of a derelict farmstead &
descend to a meadow above & E of Estany Del Rosari
D'Àrreu, B&W. Climb faint FP N, cairns & yellow
flashes, over a blunt ridge into grassy depression. Follow
LHS of depression N to c2200m, bear R (N) & climb
grass slopes to Estany Superior Del Rosari, 2281m,
B&W. From the E shore, follow FP that turns a small
knoll to the N & climbs E to Col, 2357m. Descent grass
slope E to c2200m then traverse thro’ boulderfield around
the bowl to eventually climb to Refugi D'Airoto.
8.3 [8.4km, 260m, 2:45hrs] Taken FP E from bothy,
thro’ scrub & boulders, FP soon turns NNE to climb
above the Estany d' Airoto to the Collada de Clot de
Moredo, 2420m. Descend E thro’ rough terrain, cairns, to
Estanyola Del Clot de Moredo, 2222m, B&W. Pass to S
of lake, cross stream & descend to meet dirt Rd, c2000m.
Turn L (E) & follow dirt Rd for c3km as it zigzags down
to a Jct. c1720m. Turn L (NW) & follow dirt Rd for
c800m to Bordes de Moredo, 1700m. Pass directly
between the blg’s to gain faint FP continuing NE. Follow
FP for c200m, turn R & improvise a steep descent
alongside the woods. A FP/ cattle track is joined which
continues to descend steeply into woods to cross a stream
(possibly dry). Continue the descent E down towards dry
stone walls, improvisation probably necessary, to
eventually join a more defined route down into Alos de
Isil, 1270m, turn L to centre of village, WP near church.
8.4 [6km, 690m, 3:00hrs] Continue NE thro’ village to
join minor Rd in c100m, bear L (N) & follow Rd c2.5km.
Turn R & descent track to cross bridge over the Noguera
de Pallaresa. Discreet B possible on riverside terraces
below bridge. Climb dirt Rd to its end at 2 barns, c1450m.
Pass between the barns, to W side, bear R (NE) & climb
FP/ cattle track up thro’ forest, climb eases as FP turns E,
& leaves the forest at c1750m. Continue to climb SE,
more steeply. to a grassy plateau, c1910m, good B&W.
8.5 [2.2km, 580m, 2:30hrs] Cross the plateau, climb SE
to head of valley, cross a stream & climb zigzags S with
cascade to R the Bassa de Sobriu, 2076m, B&W. Bear L,
cairns, & climb E, pass a ‘false col’ at c2190m & a
second ‘col’ at c2340m, the very rough going ends at a
steep scree ascent to Coll de la Cornelia (2485m).
Descend very steep scree/ grass slope & continue E to the
Estanys de Tartera (2393m), B&W.
8.6 [3.9km, 60m, 2:00hrs] Climb SSE for c1km to Coll
de Curios, 2428m. Bear L & climb E on cairned FP to
pass S shore of Bassa de Curiós, 2500m. Climb c500m E
to Coll de Calberante, 2610m, descend steeply NE to pass
N of Estany Major de la Gallina, 2500m. The descent N
starts near the lake’s outlet, in good weather the Refugi
Enric Pujol can be seen, follow cairned route to the R of
lakes, cross the outflow of the 3rd lake to Refugi Enric
Pujol, 2290m, sleeps 9, on an outcrop. There’s an easier
crossing of the stream a short way downhill. B possible
but best to descend to Estany de Clavena (2200m).
8.7 [6.4km, 80m, 2:00hrs] Descend cairned FP N of
stream towards Estany de Llavera. Good B at lake. FP
turns to N & descends steeply following the stream down
to the valley floor. Stay to L of stream & descend E along
cairned FP, cross small plateau, c1900m, B&W. Continue
down the valley cross 2 streams & pass a cabin, follow FP
c1.2km to cross the Riu del Port by FB, B&W in meadow
to N, also small shack. Re-enter woods & in c700m join a
dirt Rd, bear R & follow Rd c500m S, bear L on FP c1km
to Noarre, 1600m.
8.8 [2.6km, 460m, 1:45hrs] Descend to Jct & turn L,
Refugi de Certascan signposted, follow track NE to enter
forest, FP steepens in c1km to climb in zizags to Plea de
Guerosso, 2040m, B&W.
8.9 [4km, 570m, 2:30hrs] Cross plateau with stream to R
to signpost, turn L & climb steeply N with cascades to R.
Cross the outflow of Estany Inferior de Guerosso, 2280m
& climb steeply E to c2220m where the FP turns N to
climb to Estany Blau de Guerosso, 2370m. FP turns E &
climbs steadily to Coll de Certascan, 2605m. Descend
steeply E (possible snow) the slope eases at c2400m &
soon crosses the main stream. Descent stream’s R bank,
cross it twice to approach the Estany de Certascan, B&W.
8.10 [3.1km, 200m, 1:15hrs] Bear R & follow trail above
the lake’s S shore to the staffed Refugi de Certascan,
2240m, not by the lake but tucked away in a gulley just S
of it. Descend E to a small lake, 2205m & pass around N
shore. Continue down SE, cross a stream to a Jct,
c2100m. In poor weather it’s possible (easier) to continue
on FP descending S to the Cami Romedo in c800m, cross
track & continue descent for c2.5km to the Pla Boavi
c1km W of FB, see 8.12. Turn L (SE) & climb zigzag FP,
at c2220m the FP turns N for c150m to a col, 2250m.
Descend E Estany Romedo de Dalt, 2114m, good B&W.
8.11 [2.9km, 20m, 1:10hrs] Follow shore to S end of
lake & descend SE, pass around the S side of Estany
Romedo de Baix, 2020m, to join dirt Rd. Turn L & cross
the dam, turn R (S) & descend on faint FP, cairns, to L of
stream. Continue down the valley with many cascades to
cross it at c1720m. Descend & enter forest, faint FP &
cairns, improvise when necessary, lead down to the E end
of Pla de Boavi, 1475m, B&W. 8.10 Var Opt 1 joins here.
8.8 Var [2.3km, 40m, 0:40hrs] Variant via Graus &
Tavascan. From Noarre Jct head SE, down the La Porta
Del Cell, descending to cross FB over the Riu de Noarre,
bear R & follow FP down thro’ forest passing the Barrage
de Graus, to Jct c200m below the dam. Turn R & cross Br
For Camping 'Bordes de Graus', 1360m, (Refuge,
campsite, good Bar/ R).
8.9 Var [3.9km, 20m, 0:50hrs] Continue S at Jct &
descend FP for c1.5km to join the minor Rd. Follow Rd
down for c1km & turn R onto FP down towards stream
leading directly into Tavascan. Small shop with limited
supplies, Bar/ R’s, WP, no campsite.
8.10 Var Opt 1 [8.5km, 240m, 2:45hrs] Follow Rd NE
climbing gently for 6km to a Jct, continue straight ahead
(NE) thro’ a CP for c1km to its end at Pia de Boavi,
1500m, popular place for day trippers. Follow track for
c1.5km E to Jct with the main route, B&W, see 8.12.
8.10 Var Opt 2 [11km, 1650m, 7:00hrs] Route via Porta
Del Cel, c2hrs longer than Opt 1 but the scenery is far
better. Cross the Br by the Info-Office & follow the GR11
which climbs steeply for c1.7km to Jct & signpost, by
ruined stone cabanes, c1540m. Turn L (N), ‘La Porta Del
Cel’, yellow markers. FP gradually swings to E & climbs
to meet the Ribera de Boldís stream, 2150m. Climb
alongside the stream to a marshy plateau, 2200m, with
derelict Cabana de la Ribera de Boldis, B&W. Cross
plateau & climb E to Collada de Boldís, 2460m. Climb
grassy ridge ENE to Roca Cigalera, 2659m. Descend
general ESE for c1km to Coll de la Llaguna, 2594m, the
FP turns ENE, descent continues to the valley below &
Jct with HRP on plateau, c2200m.
8.12 [4.4km, 770m, 3:00hrs] Cross FB over the Riu de
Lladorre bear L (SE) on FP (white-red marks) to enter
pine forest & climb zigzags to cross FB over the Riu de
Sellente, c1680m. Follow FP c100m to a Jct, turn R &
climb S back towards the Riu de Sellente. Cross the
stream, c1800m, & climb above the W side of the stream.
Cross the stream again at c2020m & walk along the E
side of a large plateau, Planell de Santa Pau, at the S end
of the plateau the path turns SW & climbs to a plateau,
2240m, B&W. 8.10 Var Opt 2 joins here.
8.13 [2.3km, 260m, 1:10hrs] Climb faint FP SE, cairns,
over false col, c2400m, pass L of 2 small tarns & climb
gently to Coll de Sellente, 2485m. Descend easily SE
towards the Baborte lake. Refugi Baborte, sleeps 8 is the
orange cabin on an outcrop above the lake & visible from
afar. Good B&W.
8.14 [6.3km, 380m, 2:40hrs] Descent to lake & go
around the N shore, close to the outfall turn L (SE), a
short steep climb over a rocky ridge lead to a steep
descent S to Cabana de Basello, 1985m, bothy sleeps 4.
Bear L & continue down SE on FP. Cross FB over the
Barranc de Sottlo then in c400m cross FB over the
Noguera de Vall Ferrera & climb a few metres to a dirt
Rd. Turn L, joining the GR11, follow Rd to pass thro’ CP
& continue E, pass a Jct to L leading to the staffed Refugi
de Vall Ferrera, c10mins. Variant via Arcalis ski area to
El Serrat departs c200m past Jct, see 8.14 Var. Follow dirt
Rd c500m thro’ the Pia de Boet to sharp turn R, continue
onto FP & climb gently thro’ scattered pines to meadows,
Pla D´Arcalís, c2020m, good B&W.
8.15 [4.2km, 500m, 2:15hrs] Continue SE, staying R of
main stream passing thro’ meadows & continuing to
climb. Reach another plateau, c2l40m, cross stream.
Route bears L to climb around rocky ridge before
climbing gently to Estany de Saiau, 2370. Pass N of the
lakes & climb to Estanys de Baiau, cross the outfall to
climb steeply to Refugi de Baiau, 2517m, sleeps 9, on
rocky knoll. B&W
8.16 [8.9km, 340m, 3:30hrs] Descend ‘gully’ NE down
to N end of lake, B&W, follow trail around shore for
c100m, bear L & climb E then SE, the later section of the
climb is on very steep loose scree to gain Portella de
Baiau, 2757m.
Shortcut to Refugi del Pla de l'Estany on Section 9.1: turn
L (E), leaving the GR, descend a little then climb to
Collada Del Forat Dels Malhiverns, 2822m. Descend
steep scree to boulderfield below, turn R & follow cairns
E for c1km (c2300m). Bear L (NE) descending into upper
corrie where the boulders give way to grass slopes. Turn
R (S) & descend to meadow & the Refugi.
Descend S, on GR11, entering Andorra, pass Estany
Negre, c400m past a small tarn FP turns E & descends to
the valley, B&W. The staffed Refugi de Coma Pedrosa is
above & to R of FP in c700m, continue descent to cross a
Br in c1.5km & descend rough track for c500m to a Jct.
Section 9.1 continues L from here. Bear R & follow track
down to minor Rd, turn L through tunnel under the
avalanche wall to arrive at Arinsal. Bear L & continue
down Rd for c1km to find 2 supermarkets, Bar/ R’s.
Variant via Port de Bouet & Arcalis ski area to El
Serrat.
This direct route to El Serrat is shorter & less ascent than
via Arsinsal, probably saves ½ day, but arguably less
scenic.
8.14 Var [5.1km, 230m, 4:30hrs] Follow 8.14 to Jct
c200m past turning Refugi de Vall Ferrera, c1850m
[c2:00hrs], bear L (SSE), cross a couple of FB’s & climb
roughly E (cairns) to Port de Boet, 2500m. Descend NE
to Etang de la Soucarrane, 2320m, B&W.
8.15 Var [3.5km, 240m, 1:30hrs] Cross outflow &
descend E to L of stream to Jct, c2150m, turn R (S),
follow faint FP crossing the lakes outfall in c80m &
continue for c400m. Cross a stream to Jct, turn L (E) &
descend to join dirt Rd on a hairpin, c1980m. Bear R &
climb gently on Rd for c600m, bear R onto FP climbing
more steeply to reach hairpin on Rd, continue to climb Rd
for c300m, turn R (E) short after crossing stream & climb
FP (Red/ white marks) than shortcuts hairpin & continues
to climb SE alongside the Ruisseau de Rat to grassy bowl
at c2200m, B&W.
8.16 Var [2.5km, 340m, 1:30hrs] Continue climb SE for
c300m then ENE more steeply to Port de Rat, 2540m.
Descend FP (red/ white) E then NE to pass to L (W) of
Basses Del Port de Rat down to cut Rd at hairpin
(c2330m). Continue to descend on FP to L of stream
down the La Coma Bar/ R at c2230m.
8.17 Var [6.1km, 30m, 3:30hrs] Descent Rd E for
c750m, turn L (N) on FP (signposted Estany Tristaina,
B&W), cross FB & turn R (E) at Jct descending to meet
dirt track in c1.2km bear L & follow Rd E c1.2km to
CG3. Turn L follow Rd for c150m to turn R down track
descending for c1.5km to rejoin CG3. Follow CG3 SE for
c600m to Jct, (the gently climbing Rd to L can be
followed for c1.5km to CP, dirt track continues & c500m
joins the ascent from El Serrat), bear R & descend CG3
for c800m to hairpin on outskirts of El Serrat where the
primary route is rejoined, see 9.3, for the climb to Refuge
de Sorteny. Hotels, no shops. Resupply possible in La
Massana via frequent bus service.
Section 9 - Arinsal to I'Hospitalet-pres-I'Andorre:
[51km; 4070m, 23:25hrs]
9.1 [4.1km, 570m, 2:10hrs] Return to track Jct above
Avalache wall & CP, Section 8.16, turn R & follow track
to Pla de l'Estany, 2020m. Refugi del Pla de l'Estany,
good bothy sleeping 8 is across the meadow. B&W.
9.1 Var [6.6km, 620m, 3:10hrs] GR11 variant to Llorts.
From Arinsal, continue on GR11 down past supermarkets
to mini-roundabout, turn L, & climb 'EI Mas de Ribafeta'
for c1.2km to it’s end. Turn L (NE) & climb FP to Coll de
les Cases, 1958m. To L (NW) a FP can be followed over
Pic de Percanela, 2491m, to join main route at Pic del
Clot de Cavall [c2km, 500m]. Descend NE thro’ forest to
meet a minor Rd, turn R & follow Rd down thro’ Arans.
Cross the CG3 & follow Rd down cross Br, leave the
GR11, turn L & follow track N for c2km to join main
route at Llorts Br.
9.2 [6.6km, 750m, 3:30hrs] Turn R & climb E to enter
forest, FP contours around the hill, crosses the Ribal
stream, turns SE to arrive at Bordes dels Prats Nous,
2010m. Turn L (NNE) & climb thro’ forest to small
plateau at c2350m. Bear R (E) & climb to a ridge, turn N
& climb to Pic del Clot de Cavall, 2587m. Descend ridge
NW to col then climb to a ridge, descend W to a col. Turn
R (N) descend a very steep rocky FP, stay R & well above
Lake to descend to meet stream, Cross FB descend NE,
Refugi de l'Angonella, 2235m, bothy sleeps 6 is to L,
B&W.
9.3 [11km, 690m, 4:30hrs] Descend FP NE, cross a
stream & descend steep zigzags, the descent continues
ESE thro’ forest to Llorts, 1450m. Cross the Rd, CG3, &
descend minor Rd to cross Br. 9.1 Var joins here. Turn L,
N, on dirt Rd for c700m to join the CG3. Follow Rd N for
c800m & turn L over a stone Br, turn R & follow minor
Rd to a mini roundabout in c400m, continue straight
ahead to parking area with Br to R. continue straight
ahead on dirt track with river on R. In c700m gnore Br to
R & continue c100m & cross Br into El Serrat & meet the
CG3 again, turn L then in c40m R up minor Rd the the
village centre. No shops. Climb on the CG3 for c800m,
just after a tight hairpin L, turn R (NE). Climb past a few
houses & cross FB across the Riu de Rialb, shortly after
crossing a 2nd FB bear R at Jct & climb steeply thro’
woods to join Rd. Turn R & climb the Rd for c1.5km to
its end, continue on FP to the staffed Refugi de Sorteny,
1970m. Climb ENE on FP, red/ yellow marks, for
c1.3km, FP turns S crosses stream & in c300m arrives at
Cabane de Sorteny, stone bothy to R of path, sleeps 4,
B&W.
9.4 [6.9km, 760m, 4:00hrs] Follow FP E to FB over
stream (c2160m), climb zigzags S to Pas de la Serrera,
2231m. FP turns E, climbs & crosses a stream, c2356m,
FP finally climbs more steeply NE to Collada dels
Meners, 2713m. Descend steep scree E to a plateau, turn
S then E to Estany de Ransol, 2440m, & pass L (W) of
the lake to Jct, B&W. Bear L (NNE), yellow/ red marks,
in c150m cross the Meners stream & climb gently NNE
for c300m wher the FP turns E traversing across the slope
to a col, c2510m. Continue NE to cross the stream coming
from Estany Mort, c2500m. FP descends generally E for
c1.7km to Refugio Coms de Jan (2220m), good bothy
sleeping 8, B&W.
9.5 [3.8km, 460m, 1:40hrs] Cross stream below tarn &
climb E, red/ yellow marks, to L of gulley to c2290m,
continue climbing & cross a stream, c2215m. Route
swings to R (S) for c150m then recommences the ascent
E. At c2400m the slope eases & a stream is crossed,
continue climbing E to c2500m where the FP turns SE &
climb steepens to gain the ridge, c2646m. Descend
steeply SE to c2520m where the route turns E & descends
to gain a ridge, FP turns N & descends across the slope
towards Estany de Cabanya Sorda, cross the outfall &
climb the short way to Refugi de Cabana Sorda, 2250m,
bothy sleeps 20, B&W.
9.6 [4.8km, 480m, 2:30hrs] Descend FP SE, red/ yellow
marks, stream to R, follow FP for c2km to a Jct. Turn R
(E) & descend to cross streams. Climb steeply SE, red/
white marks, then E to Pleta Del Forquilló, 2321m.
Descend E to join track (departure point for variant via
Pas de la Casa, see 9.6 Var) turn L (NE) & climb c300m
below the staffed Refuge de Juclar,
9.7 [11.8km, 440m, 4:45hrs] Follow FP E, yellow
flashes, around S shore of Juclar lake before turning N to
pass between the lakes, B&W, before climbing NE to
Collardo de Juclar, 2442m. Don’t cross the pass but turn
R (E), red/ white flashes, & continue climbing to Port de
I'Albe, 2535m. Descend NE to Etang de I'Albe (2355m),
pass it to W & continue the descent to Etang de Couart
(2230m), B&W. Pass N of the lake, cross the outfall &
climb SE to a col, c2250m, descend ESE to Etang de
Pedoures, 2165m, B&W. Descend SE, stream to R, pass
small lake & continue the descent to cross a FB, c1830m,
pass under pipeline, cross 2nd FB. FP turns NE continuing
the descent to meet Rd, N20, bear R crossing the Rd to
descend a track leading into L'Hospitalet-pres-I'Andorre,
1436m. Go down minor Rd past Marie to Jct with N22,
the small shop/ Café is to L across railway track,
Municipal campsite 400m N down N20, trains N & S.
9.6 Var [5.8km, 450m, 2:45hrs] Variant via Pas de la
Casa. From Cabana Sorda follow main route to Jct c300m
below the staffed Refuge de Juclar, turn R (S) & descend
track for c600m, turn L on FP, red/ yellow marks, after a
short climb FP descends to the Pletes de Siscaró (2160m).
Refugi Siscaró, sleeps 6, is on the E side of the plateau,
B&W.
9.7 Var [9.1km, 570m, 3:40hrs] Keep R of stream &
climb FP S to Estany de Baix, 2336m, pass between the
lakes & climb S to Pas de Les Vaques, 2563m. Head S for
c700m to reach Port Dret, 2566m, then follow the
rounded ridge S for c3km to Pic de Maia, 2597m, with its
huge radio mast. Descent dirt Rd, S, taking shortcuts
across the zigzags, to plateau on the ridge at c2440m,
leave the Rd turning L, E, & descend grassy slopes,
improvise, to the Rd below, CG2. Turn L (N) & opposite
a large garage turn R down a minor Rd leading into the
centre of Pas de la Cassa, Hotels, Supermarkets, Bar/ R’s.
Section 10 - I'Hospitalet-pres-I'Andorre to Bolquere:
[37km; 1970m, 13:20hrs]
10.1 [7.3km; 720m, 3:10hrs] Return up the minor Rd,
Pass the gite d'etape, turn L, to signpost by steps. Climb
FP (N) thro’ woods to the N20, cross the Rd & continue
on FP to join track at c1540m. Turn L (N), bear L at Jct in
c500m & climb gently around the hill to Etang des
Besines, 1973m. Refuge Du Barrage Des Besines, bothy
sleeping 5, is shortly before the dam. B&W. Pass along
the S shore, to large plateau, Cabane Des Besines, bothy
sleeping 4, is on N side of plateau, B&W. Cross FB &
climb to the staffed Refuge des Besines, 2104m.
10.2 [5.5km; 440m, 2:30hrs] Follow GR10, red/ white
marks, E then NE climbing to Coll de Coma D'Anyell,
2470m. Descend SE passing S of Etang de Lanoux,
2240m, good B&W, to Jct at Cabane de Rouzet, bothy
sleeping 4.
10.1 Var [11.9km; 380m, 3:45hrs] Leave Pas de la Casa
to NE of town; before customs post bear R, cross CP &
stream, climb NE towards large boulders to join a more
defined FP, yellow marks. Follow FP that climbs gently
around the hill before heading SE, crosses a minor stream,
B&W, before crossing the Ruiseau de Baladra, 2155m.
Follow the FP for c150m, bear L & descend FP to join a
track near an old mine entrance. Follow track NE for
c3km, passing thro’ the derelict Mines de Pimorent blg’s,
to a jct. Turn L (NE) & follow track down to Jct with the
D320 at Col Du Puymorens, 1900m. Cross the Rd to join
track, GR107 markers, head N for c300m to Jct & turn R
(SE) leaving the GR. Follow track as it climbs gently for
c3.5km to Cabane Cortal Rousso, 2100m, bothy sleeps 4,
W.
10.2 Var [5.5km; 440m, 2:40hrs] Continue climbing
track for c1km, bear R (NE) on FP that crosses plateau,
B&W. Climb NE, yellow &/ or red marks, to Portella de
Lanós, 2480m. Descend to plateau below dam, B&W, &
cross Br to Jct. Cabane Lanoux, sleeps 12, is c500m to E.
Turn L (N) on GR7 for c1km to Jct on small plateau &
main route coming S from Cabane de Rouzet.
10.3 [3.2km; 60m, 1:00hrs] Leave the GR10, turn S on
GR7, red/ white marks, & follow obvious FP S to Jct on
small plateau near the Etang de Lanoux dam, B&W.
10.3 Var [9.9km; 170m, 3:10hrs] Avoids the ascent of
Carlit. From Cabane de Rouzet continue E on GR10
climbing on obvious FP to Portella de la'Grave, 2426m.
Descend NE passing N of L'Estagnol, 2297m, B&W, to a
plateau with numerous good B sites. FP turns S as Lac
des Bouillouses is approached & is followed for c3km to
a Jct by the dam, & probably tourist hoards. The main
route over Carlit joins here.
10.4 [9.4km; 680m, 4:00hrs] Turn E, leave the GR 7, FP
follows stream E, cairns, for c2km to Etang des Fourats,
2457m, B&W. Pass S of the lake, then climb the very
steep loose trail up Carlit, trail leads to a col just N of
actual summit. Descend obvious FP down steep scree E to
gain a rocky ridge eventually gaining a plateau & Jct,
2370m, S of Estany de Sobirans, B&W. Bear R, yellow
marks, & follow trail to Etang de Vallell, 2220m, cross
the outfall & turn SE. Pass between Etang Sec & Etang de
la Comassa, then shortly between Etang Noir & Etang del
Viver. Descend SE the E for c1.2km to the Barrage des
Bouillouses & Jct. WP & WC just below dam. Variant
10.3 joins from L.
10.5 [11.2km; 60m, 2:40hrs] Don’t cross the dam,
descend gently SE on a large track for c1.5km (probably
with hordes of day-trippers). Bear L (E), the Abri de
L'Estany de la Pradella on L, sleeps 4. Join the GR10,
pass S of the lake & enter forest, a gently descending trail
leads in c7km to Jct with minor Rd, turn L & in c100m
come to Jct with the D618. Supermarket - turn R for
c800m. Cross the Jct & follow minor Rd for c1km, bear R
to short cut a zigzag, bear R down Rd. Turn L at Jct in
c200m & follow Rd for c1km to Bolquere, small food
shop (opposite post office).
Section 11 – Bolquere to Arles Sur Tech: [85km;
4165m, 29:25hrs]
11.1 [12.1km; 825m, 4:40hrs] Follow the D10 SE, in
c1.5km arrive at Jct with the N116 at Col de la Perche,
cross the Rd & follow the D33 S to reach Eyne in c3km.
Turn L at Jct, signposted Llo, in c400m turn L onto track,
follow signposts to “Reserve Naturelle de Vallee d'Eyne”.
Continue on the trail SE to cross a side stream at c2300m,
a little way ahead a plateau to R provides good B&W.
11.2 [9km; 770m, 4:00hrs] Climb E to the Coll d'Eina,
2683m, bear L following the ridge NE, pass a little S of
Pic d'Eina, 2786m, & in c1km climb to the summit of Pic
de Noufonts, 2861m. Descend steeply SE along the ridge
to Col de Noufonts, 2652m, where the GR11 ascending
from Nuria is met, B&W c150m down the GR. Follow
the GR11, climbing steeply SE then follow ridge c1km to
Col de Nou Creus, 2799m, nine small crosses. Descend
NE to col & climb E to regain ridge, pass S of Pic de la
Vaca, 2826m, continue c400m E where the FP turns N &
descends into the Circo de Freser. The FP, turns E,
crosses a few streams to finally cross the Rio Freser,
c2425m, B&W.
11.3 [26.2km; 790m, 8:00hrs] Climb E for c1.3km to
Coll de la Marrana, 2535m, descend NE into the Circo
d'Ull de Ter (where the ski resorts come into view). The
staffed Refugi d'Ull de Ter, 2220m, is c1.3km onward, a
small plateau c200m above the hut gives B&W. Descend
NE cross stream & continue down to minor Rd, c2090m.
Leave the GR, turn L & follow Rd c800m to the large CP
of the “Vallter 2000” resort. Pass around RH end of blg’s
& climb a FP to L of stream to Jct at c2290m, bear R &
cross the stream. Probably the last water until Refuge de
Mariailles c20km ahead. Climb E the short way up to the
large plateau, Pla de Comaermada, 2387m, dry B. FP
marked with cairns leads NE to Porteille de Mourens,
2389m, bear R & follow FP that traverses the ridge E for
c3km to Porteille del Caillau, 2382m. Follow level FP to
N of Roc Colom to Porteille de Mentet, stay close to ridge
& follow FP to Porteille de Rotja, c2360m, Refuge de la
Porteille de Rojta, a semi derelict hut is located to S of
col, no W. Descend NE along the white ridge of
Esquerdesde Rotja & descend to join dirt Rd, turn R to Jct
at Collade des Roques Blanches, 2240m. Turn L & follow
dirt Rd N for c4km to the Pia Guilhem, 2300m. Refuge
Du Pla Guillem, large bothy sleeping 12 is c600 SW, no
W. Follow Rd which in c500m turns NW descending in
large zigzags to the Llipodère valley to a Jct. The staffed
Refuge de Mariailles is directly ahead in c150m & to R
the Refuge Forestier, bothy sleeping 4, B&W.
11.4 [5.3km; 550m, 2:30hrs] Leave the dirt Rd, join the
GR10 & turn R, signposted Canigou. Follow FP parallel
with Rd, W on L below FP, cross FB over the Llipodere
in c800m & climb to Col Vert, 1861m, signpost & gate.
Continue climbing NE for c1.5km, cross the Ruisseau de
Cady, 1964m, continue NW for c600m to Jct, leave the
GR10, variant avoiding Canigou continues ahead, see
Section 11.4 Var. Turn R (E) & climb FP c1km to Cabane
Arago, 2123m, bothy sleeps 4, B&W.
11.5 [6.2km; 650m, 3:15hrs] Climb FP NE, yellow
markers, cross stream at c2290m to a small plateau,
B&W. Cross plateau NE to obvious FP climbing in
zigszags, WP at c2400m, to Jct at c2550m just below
Porteille de Valmanya. Bear L (NW) climbing rough
terrain to the Breche Durier, a natural staircase up a steep
chimney to the summit of Canigou, 2784m. Descend on
obvious FP (N), yellow marks, to reach Jct with GR10 (&
11.4 Var) at c2270m. Turn R & descend to the small Lac
des Cortalets c400m from the staffed Chalet-Refuge Des
Cortalets, 2150m, B&W.
11.4 Var [15.2km; 1330m, 7:00hrs] Variant avoiding
Canigou. Refuge de Mariailles Jct follow 11.4 to Jct at
c4.5km & continue W on GR10 to Col de Segales
(2040m). Bear R, N, at a Jct & in c2km gain Col de la
Jasse-d'en-Vernet. Descend FP to Les Conques, cross
ravine & follow FP thro’ avalanche scoured area to track
which is followed to Refuge de Bonne-Aigue, 1741m,
bothy sleeping 12, WP may be dry. Follow the track N for
c50m, turn R on FP climbing E to Jct with main route at
c2270m.
11.6 [15.7km; 500m, 4:40hrs] Continue on GR10 bear R
past the refuge to Jct with WP turn R, SE. Bear L at a fork
in c250m & in c3km arrive at Prat Cabrera, c1730m,
meeting the dirt Rd descending from Cortalets. Ignore the
Rd turn R, an easy FP traverses around the mountain
crossing a few streams to reach Cabane du Pinatell,
1650m, sleeps 6, W, in c3km. Continue on FP for c2km
leads to Maison Forestiere de l'Estanyol. W, basic bothy
sleeping 10. The FP continues to contour the mountain to
Col de la Cirere, 1731m, descend SE to a dirt Rd, turn R
& follow this to a minor Rd which is followed past the
derelict mine blg’s & Refuge Batère, c700m past the
refuge the Rd turns sharp R at Col de Descarga, 1393m.
Leave the Rd & continue straight ahead & descend E on
FP to meet a stream, B&W.
11.7 [10km; 80m, 2:20hrs] The FP shortly leaves the
stream turning S to follow a broad ridge down to a dirt
Rd, cross it taking a short cut down to rejoin it a little
lower. Turn L & Rd down for c2km, leave Rd to R, E, at
a hairpin to L & follow FP c200m to Refuge des
Vigourats, 888m, bothy sleeping 5 is inside large old
mine blg. Continue down thro’ forest to rejoin the dirt Rd,
cross it & continue descent to cross stream, a short climb
meets a dirt Rd. Turn R, S, to Jct in c700m, turn R &
continue to descend Rd for c3km. Turn R down FP & in
c1km meet minor Rd on the outskirts of Arles-sur-Tech.
Campsite to R c200m. Turn L to descend to village
centre. Bar/ R’s & supermarket.
Section 12 – Arles Sur Tech to Le Perthus: [40km;
2615m, 15:30hrs]
12.1 [7.2km; 800m, 3:40hrs] Leave town on the D115
(N), turn R past the “Salle des Fetes”, follow Rd & cross
a long FB over the river. Immediately leave Rd to R (E),
FP climbs passes thro’ blg’s to join minor Rd. Trail
follows Rd c400m, taking shortcuts, turn L onto FP
having passed through more blg’s. Climb steadily up thro’
the forest for c3km to a Jct at Col de Paracolls (902m).
Descend SSE, FP generally contours thro’ the forest for
c2km before descending to cross a stream, c660m, a short
climb joins the Rd, D53b. Moulin de la Palette gite on L.
12.2 [7.7km; 900m, 3:50hrs] Continue on GR10. Turn L
& follow the Rd for c1.2km, turn R & climb N through
forest to cross a ridge at c620m, descend SE cross a
stream then continue descent to N to CP on outskirts of
Montalba d'Amelie. Turn R & climb SE to dirt Rd, turn R
climb gently to a Jct, turn R & climb to the ruined Mouli
Serradou, 833m. Turn S & climb FP to Col Cerda & Jct.
Dry B, possible stream c500m further.
12.2 Var [3.2km; 500m, 2:00hrs] Leave the GR10. Turn
R (S) & follow Rd for c1km, immediately before a bridge
over a stream, turn L up FP, signposted “Roc St Sauveur
& Col Cerda”, yellow markers. FP climbs E thro’ forest
for c1km to Jct, turn L (N) & climb more steeply up thro’
forest & rock outcrops to 2nd Jct on small col. Turn R (N)
& in c500m reach 3rd Jct immediate below Roc St
Sauveur’s summit outcrop, turn R & follow FP E for
c1km to Col Cerda, 1058m, & Jct with GR10 & main
route.
12.3 [4.8km; 525m, 2:30hrs] Climb SE then E alongside
stream, possibly dry, towards frontier ridge. Follow FP
just below the crest NE then N to a Jct. GR10 bypasses
Roc de Frausa & continues for c2km to Col du Puits de la
Neige. Turn R (S) follow yellow marks back to ridge,
follow crest E across rough terrain, to Roc de Frausa,
1450m, with its aerials. Descend E for c1km keeping
close to crest to Jct at Col du Puits de la Neige, 1250m.
Bear R across open area to find Rd descending from Roc
de Frausa. Bear L, leaving Rd & descend SE on FP for
c1km to Refuge Salines, 1083m. Bothy at N end of blg
sleeps 12, good B&W.
12.4 [20.1km; 390m, 5:30hrs] Pass blg’s & bear R just
before the WP, red/ yellow marks, cross stream & in
c600m meet dirt Rd. Turn L & follow Rd that descends
gently in c3km to Jct at Col de Llyn, 713m. Turn L (N),
pass thro’ gate & follow FP descending N, yellow marks,
to dirt Rd in c400m. Bear R & continue down track to Las
Illas, 550m, Gite, Bar/R. Pass the gite, bear R to a Jct in
c150m, grass area directly ahead provides B&W. Turn R
(SE), the Route de Manrell, & climb in zigzags ignoring
access Rd’s for c2.5km to Col de Figuer, 685m. Continue
on Rd then dirt track generally NE for c4km ignoring side
turns. Pass the farm house of Mas Nou just after exiting
forest, continue a further c500m to a Jct, cabane. Turn R
(ESE) towards the frontier ridge & in c4km to Col del
Priorat, 459m, BM 565. Bear L (NW) & follow Rd
c500m, turn R, & climb E on FP to join the dirt Rd again.
Turn R, descend past farm & Fort de Bellaguarda into Le
Perthus, 280m, & Jct with D900. Turn R for
supermarkets, Bar/ R’s, in summer very busy with cross
border shoppers.
Section 13 –Perthus to Banyuls: [31km; 1655m,
11:50hrs]
13.1 [8.7km; 820m, 3:40hrs] Follow GR10. From Jct,
turn L, N, & in c150m turn R onto D71, pass under A9
viaduct & turn R (S) onto dirt track. It’s possible to
continue up the D71 for c5.5km to join the GR10 at Col
del Ras, old GR10. Turn L (E), before cattle grid, to FP
climbing for c1.5km to Col de Comtessa, 513m, BM580.
Climb gently SE to join dirt Rd, turn L & follow dirt Rd
for c4.5km. Directly E7 of St Martin de L’Albere turn R
(NE) onto FP climbing NE, in c600m close to joining
D71 at Col del Ras, 705m, turn R (NE) & climb c800m to
Roca Corba, 873m. FP swings N climbing gently for
c1km to Col de l'Ouillat, 936m, where the D71 is met
again. Gite, picnic area, B, WP is c50m N along Rd.
13.2 [3.7km; 330m, 1:40hrs] Climb SE thro’ forest to
frontier ridge, turn L & follow ridge c1.7km to Puig
Neulos, 1253m, aerials. Pass around compound to L,
descend SE, stay above the dirt Rd, pass Fontaine de la
Tanyareda, cattle trough, the last reliable water until the
descent to Banyul. Continue for c500m to Refuge
Tagnarede, bothy sleeping 12, B.
13.3 [18.2km; 550m, 6:30hrs] Follow FP along ridge
c3km to Col de l'Estaca, BM 586, leave the GR & climb
NE to Puig Dels Pradets, 1175m. Descend ENE to rejoin
GR, follow the ridge for c4.5km to Puig de Sailfort,
974m. Refuge Tomy, a small howff hidden amongst
outcrop sleeps 2. Descend steeply E for c3km to join dirt
Rd, turn R for c100m to Col de Baillaury, 418m. Turn L,
climb on FP NE to join the D86 in c1.7km at Col des
Gascons, 386m. Follow D86 E for c50m, turn L &
descend FP that crosses the Rd twice, passes a WP then
returns to the Rd. Follow the Rd for c500m E to Col de
Llagastera, 256m. Leave D85 & follow dirt Rd climbing
E, bear R at Jct & descend on dirt Rds E. cross a minor
Rd, continue E to Jct with a minor R, turn L, pass under
railway line, continue for c200m to Jct, turn L & in
c500m to Banyul beach.
Revision - November 2019