Hiking the Pyrenees
Inn-Based Hiking Tours
9 Days, 8 Nights 52 MI / 83 KM
Trip Highlights
The Pyrenees forms a 400 km border between France and Spain. We will explore a mix of high mountain passes, colorful alpine lakes, towering glacier-created cirques and beautiful waterfall filled streams and rivers. Hike through Spain and France, including in Pyrenees National Park, and Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park. You’ll get to experience the culture, history, and outstanding cuisine of this region with light day packs and led by our expert, local guides.
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World Famous Mountain Range
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Historic, Charming Lodging
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Stunning Mountain Views
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Deep, Dramatic Valleys
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Unique Wildlife
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Delicious Regional Cuisine
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Cross-Border Hiking
Book This Trip
View Dates
Trip Details
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Trip Type
Inn-Based Hiking Tours -
Trip Length
9 Days, 8 Nights -
Daily Hiking Distance
Up to 10.5 miles (17 km.) -
Group Size
3-12 Guests
Receive a PDF info packet via email which includes:
- day by day itinerary
- logistical and travel information
- gear and clothing lists and more
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Is This Trip Right For me?
This trip features moderately distanced hikes with significant elevation changes (1,600-4,430 feet of ascent or descent), but with light day packs only. There are a few areas with moderate heights exposure. Expect trails to be lightly rugged and maintained trails to sections of moderately rugged with loose rock.
Difficulty Level
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Solitude Level
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Trip Itinerary
Please Note: While we strive to adhere to the set itinerary, occasional adjustments may be necessary due to various circumstances. These may include but are not limited to, lodging or campground availability, extreme weather conditions, political or bureaucratic obstacles, natural disasters such as earthquakes, fires, or flooding. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes. Thank you for your understanding.
Day 1
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.
Day 2
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 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.
Day 3
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.
Day 4
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)!
Day 5
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.
Day 6
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.
Day 7
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.
Day 8
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.
Day 9
We’ll gather for one final breakfast together before you depart at your convenience. Thank you for choosing Wildland for your Pyrenees adventure!
Trip Dates
Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.
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What's Included
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A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
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Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
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Transportation during the trekking portion of the tour starting on Day 2 and ending on Day 8
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Lodging for the duration of the tour.
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All meals from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 9
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Vehicle transport of luggage between inns (44 lbs./20 kg. limit)
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Use of a backpack and trekking poles
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Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device
What's Not Included
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Transportation to/from Toulouse, France -
Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 9
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Beverages and personal expenses
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All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
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Bar bills, drink bills, telephone bills, Wi-Fi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/laundry)
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Clothes, rain gear, and footwear
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Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
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Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
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Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 5-10% of the total trip cost. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated.
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Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (required)
Accommodations
* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used
HOTEL DE BRIENNE
2 NIGHTS
This four-star hotel is a perfect example of French elegance and is just a 10-minute walk from the city center. The hotel takes its name from the Canal de Brienne, which is a stone’s throw away. This hotel offers a quiet, colorful, cozy setting replete with patio and bar.
Hotel Christian
2 NIGHTS
This 3-Star hotel is warmly friendly and comfortable hotel located in Cauterets with a garden, a shared lounge, and mountain views. They even have a dart board for a little post-hike competition.
HOTEL VILLA DE TORLA
2 NIGHTS
Since the early 1900s, this hotel has been run by the same family. The exterior is built of stone and each room has an exterior view of either the surrounding mountains or the quaint town below. You may enjoy the outdoor pool overlooking the mountains or the indoor jacuzzi to rest tired muscles during your stay.
Logis Hôtel la Brèche de Roland
1 NIGHT
This historical, family-run hotel from the 18th century is nestled in the heart of the village of Gèdre. You’ll find much charm and vibrancy inside the hotel and outside you’ll find beautiful views. This location has a sauna and an outside lounge in which to enjoy a refreshing drink.
HOTEL DU CIRQUE ET DE LA CASCADE
1 NIGHT
In the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and within the national park, this hotel is a truly special experience. This 4-Star, remote lodge is a 7th generation family run hotel since 1845. It sits near the foot of one of Europe’s tallest waterfalls at 1384 ft. (422 m.).
Trip Logistics & FAQs
Where Do We Meet?
We will meet you at the first night’s hotel in Toulouse, France where we’ll conduct an orientation meeting at 6:00 PM. Airport transportation is not included in the tour, but easily planned from the Toulouse–Blagnac Airport (TLS).
Our pre-trip support team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, airport transportation, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Travel to Toulouse, France
BOOKING FLIGHTS
Start/End Location: Toulouse, France.
Closest Airport: Toulouse–Blagnac Airport (TLS). Flights to and from Toulouse are the guest’s responsibility.
Airport transportation is not included in the tour, but easily planned to/from the Toulouse Airport with multiple economical and convenient options.
Day 1: You may check-in to the hotel by 3:00 PM and orientation begins at 6:00 PM. Please be sure to arrive into Toulouse no later than 4:00 PM.
Day 9: You may depart today at any time. Breakfast is included and check-out from the hotel is at 10 am.
Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging
We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Toulouse as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.
Guides
Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.
Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 7 and older to join scheduled and private tours
Trip Insurance Requirements
Field evacuation, repatriation, and medical insurance is REQUIRED as a condition of partnership terms with our European vendors (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD).
We recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all Alps requirements.
For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here.
If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.
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