Hiking the Pyrenees

• Accommodation: Hotel in Toulouse, France

Welcome to the Pyrenees! Over the next nine days, we will embark on an inspiring journey through the breathtaking landscapes of both the French and Spanish Pyrenees. Our expert guides have meticulously selected their favorite sections of this magnificent 248 mile (400 km) mountain range, which forms a natural border between France and Spain. We begin our adventure in the vibrant French city of Toulouse, a treasure trove of culture and history with three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Arrive early if you wish to immerse yourself in the local charm, explore captivating neighborhoods near our accommodation, and savor the culinary delights that Toulouse has to offer. Join us in the evening at our hotel for our orientation, where we will discuss our exciting itinerary, answer questions, and hand out gear, followed by a group dinner.

• Hiking Distance:  6.2 mi (10 km)
• Elevation Gain: 985 ft (300 m)
• Elevation Loss:  2,295 ft (700 m)
• Drive Time: 2.5 hours
• Accommodation: Hotel in Cauterets, France

After a private transfer from Toulouse to Pont d’Espagne, we’ll begin our loop hike to the beautiful Lac de Gaube. Interestingly, “Gaube” means “lake” in the Gascon language, so it translates to “Lake Lake.” Situated at 5,660 feet (1725 meters) above sea level, this stunning lake is surrounded by majestic peaks such as Vignemale, Mayouret, Gaube, and Peak of the Paloumères. We will then continue our journey to La Raillère, following a scenic river path. After a 10-minute private transfer, we’ll arrive to our hotel in the charming village of Cauterets where we will spend the next 2 nights.

• Hiking Distance: 9.3 mi (15 km)
• Elevation Gain: 3,280 ft (1000 m)
• Elevation Loss: 2,955 ft (900 m)
• Drive Time: 35 min
• Accommodation: Hotel in Cauterets, France

This morning starts with a quick private transfer to Cambasque. From there, we continue on our adventure within the Pyrenees National Park, hiking up to the refuge d’Ilhéou on the edge of Lac Bleu. This beautiful, multi-story stone structure is perfectly situated in a breathtaking alpine environment. From the refuge, we’ll continue up to le col de la Haugade, then descend to Lacs de l’embarrat, and finally traverse the picturesque Vallée du Marcadau. The panoramic views along the way are stunning! We conclude today’s hike in Pont d’Espagane, where our private transfer will bring us back to our cozy lodge in Cauterets.

• Hiking Distance: 6.2 mi (10 km)
• Elevation Gain: 525 ft (160 m)
• Elevation Loss: 3,675 ft (1120 m)
• Drive Time: 2 hours
• Accommodation: Hotel near Torla-Ordesa or Bronto, Spain

After a delicious French breakfast, we transfer to the Gavarnie region and hike up to the Col des Espécières. This pass, sitting at 7,660 ft (2,335 m), marks our exciting journey from France into Spain! After enjoying the incredible views, we’ll continue on to San Nicolas de Bujaruelo and Lapazosa Lake, concluding today’s hike along a meandering river to Valle de Bujaruelo. A short transfer down a dirt road will bring us to our charming lodging for the next two nights. Salud y bienvenido (cheers and welcome)!

• Hiking Distance: 10.5 mi (17 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,805 ft (550 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1,805 ft (550 m)
• Drive Time: 30 min.
• Accommodation: Hotel near Torla-Ordesa or Bronto, Spain

We start our day by experiencing the local bus system as we transfer to the fabulous Ordesa Valley. This 7-mile (11 km) long valley lies within the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, renowned for its limestone geology and diverse wildlife, including marmots, red foxes, golden eagles, and large populations of chamois. Our hike is in-and-out hike of the canyon, we hike to the end of the valley where a breathtaking cirque and waterfall provide the perfect backdrop for our picnic lunch. On our return, we’ll stop by smaller cascades and pools, taking in the serene beauty of the area. We then head back to our hotel in the Torla-Ordesa region where we’ll enjoy a delicious Spanish dinner together.

• Hiking Distance:  6.2 mi (10 km)
• Elevation Gain: 3,280 ft (1000 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1,640 ft (500 m)
• Drive Time: 1 hour
• Accommodation: Hotel Gavarnie-Gèdre

This morning, we bid a fond farewell to Spain as we hike back into France. Our journey begins with a rewarding uphill climb to the picturesque Col de la Bernatoire, situated at 7,664 ft. (2336 m.). Along the way, we’ll savor the breathtaking views of the stunning Lake Bernatuara before descending to Barrage d’Ossoue. There, a private transfer will be waiting to take us to our accommodations in the charming village of Gavarnie-Gèdre.

• Hiking Distance: 9.3 mi (15 km)
• Elevation Gain: 2,298 ft (700 m)
• Elevation Loss: 4,430 ft (1350 m)
• Drive Time: 30 min.
• Accommodation: Lodge in Cirque de Gavarnie

After a short transfer to the Col de Tentes, we’ll embark on a hike up to the Brèche de Roland. The term “Brèche” translates to gap, break, or breach, which perfectly describes this unique geographical feature— a dramatic gap in the landscape. As we navigate this striking terrain, we’ll play footsy with the international border while descending to Col des Sarradets and then through the Vallée des Pouey Aspé. Our hike will lead us directly to our exceptional one-of-a kind backcountry hotel, located at the entrance to the magnificent Cirque de Gavarnie.

• Hiking Distance: 3.7 mi (6 km)
• Elevation Gain: 820 ft (250 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1,410 ft (430 m)
• Drive time: 2.5 hours
• Accommodation: Hotel in Toulouse

Today, we’ll hike up to the beloved Cirque de Gavarnie Falls, a true gem of the park nestled amidst alpine greens and rugged terrain. After visiting the falls we’ll descend to the quaint village of Gavarnie. From there, we’ll transfer back to Toulouse. We’ll conclude our fantastic week together with a celebratory dinner in Toulouse, where we can reminisce about the unforgettable experiences we’ve shared.

We’ll gather for one final breakfast together before you depart at your convenience. Thank you for choosing Wildland for your Pyrenees adventure!