Hiking between Cauterets and Gavarnie, jewels of the Pyrenees
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationCauterets / Néouvielle Massif
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions71.42 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Embark on an immersive hiking adventure in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park , between Cauterets and Gavarnie , and explore exceptional landscapes while enjoying the comfort of a base camp . Each day, with a light pack, you'll set off to discover iconic sites: the Gaube Valley , the Marcadau , and the impressive cirques of Estaubé and Gavarnie , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On the trails, be amazed by the unspoiled wildlife , from agile chamois to curious marmots. Between forests, high-altitude lakes, and spectacular waterfalls , each hike is a total immersion in magnificent nature.
After the exertion, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation at the Bains du Rocher , an ideal thermal space to recharge your batteries and extend the experience in complete serenity.
The highlights
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Accommodation in the heart of the old village in a family-run gîte with the Green Key label
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Guided hike with a mountain guide specializing in the region
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Optional access to the spa after your hikes
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
A regular hiker in good physical condition with experience in mountain hiking. Hikes average 6-7 hours per day, with average elevation gains of 700-1000 meters, on relatively easy trails with a few minor technical challenges. The hiking times mentioned are approximate and only include the actual walking time, not breaks. Depending on weather conditions, the pace may vary, ranging from 300m to 500m of ascent per hour.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average distance/day: 16 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 747 m
- Average daily descent: 747 m
Management
French
Guided hike led by a qualified mountain guide specializing in the region.
Program
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Start of stay in Cauterets
- Transportation Minibus - 00h35 - 30km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Meet at 5:15 pm at Lourdes train station, where your adventure begins. A 35-minute transfer will take you to Cauterets , a charming resort nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees. Once settled into your accommodation, enjoy some free time to explore the town, admire its architectural heritage , or visit the National Park Visitor Centre .
Day 1 -
The Lutour Valley and the Estom Refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h15
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A magnificent hike in the Lutour Valley, perfect for discovering the spectacular landscapes of the Pyrenees National Park! The ascent is gradual and pleasant, although slightly steeper as you approach the lake. Take the time to observe the slopes on your right as you climb, where you might spot the Pyrenean chamois that inhabit this reserve.
Day 2 -
The Troumouse Circus
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h15
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Negative elevation 650 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The Central Pyrenees are home to three magnificent cirques, the most famous being the Cirque de Gavarnie. But the Cirques d'Estaubé and Troumouse are also well worth a visit. The latter is distinguished by its imposing walls that mark the border with Spain.
Day 3 -
The glacial lakes of the Marcadau valley
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 985 m
- Negative elevation 985 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Still in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, this hike takes you to discover the Marcadau Valley. A loop trail will lead you to explore several remarkably beautiful lakes with turquoise waters, located at altitudes of over 2,400 meters, such as Lakes Embarrat, Pourtet, and Nère. You will then descend to the staffed Wallon refuge, which sits on the banks of the Gave du Marcadau river.
Day 4 -
Cirque de Gavarnie, UNESCO world heritage
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 900 m
- Negative elevation 900 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From the village of Gavarnie, an exceptional route offers breathtaking panoramas! Crossing high-altitude meadows, where marmots and herds roam freely, you will be constantly amazed by the mineral beauty and purity of the landscapes that surround you.
Day 5 -
Gaube Valley and Vignemale Massif seen from Pont d'Espagne
- Transportation Minibus - 00h35 - 30km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h45
- Distance 17 km
- Positive elevation gain 700 m
- Negative elevation 700 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Explore the magnificent Gaube valley and its mountain lake, surrounded by pristine landscapes. After admiring the lake, an easy, gently sloping path will lead you to the Oulettes de Gaube, where a staffed refuge is located at the foot of the majestic north face of the Vignemale (3298m).
After your hike, transfer to Lourdes train station.
Day 6
Note
The programs were established based on the latest information available at the time of writing: unforeseen circumstances are always possible and situations beyond our control may alter their course.
Accommodation
A family-run gîte awarded the Green Key label: Committed to sustainable tourism, with full board. Gîte Beau Soleil offers a friendly, family atmosphere with a welcoming mountain ambiance. Anouk will give you a warm welcome and prepare delicious meals for you! The gîte is located in the heart of the old village, 350m from the Bains du Rocher thermal baths.
Access
Go to the starting point
From Tarbes follow signs for Lourdes, Argeles-Gazost, then Cauterets.
- Paris 894km
- Bordeaux 278km
- Toulouse 204km
- Nantes 602km
Vehicle parking in Cauterets:
Free:
Bus station, Station square
Caesar's Baths, behind the pediment (city center).
Secure, paid parking lots:
Underground Municipal Parking, Rue de Belfort - Tel: 05 62 92 55 57, or 05 62 92 50 34 (Town Hall), or 05 62 92 50 50 (Tourist Office).
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation in shared rooms for 2 to 5 people
- Full board from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast and picnic lunch on Day 6
- Transfers during the stay
- Supervision by a BE AMM specialist in the region
The price does not include
- The visits
- Drinks
- Meals not listed under "price includes"
- Transfers not included in the program
Options
- Spa supplement (5-hour pass) : CHF45.74 / unit
- Additional night in a double room with breakfast : CHF42.08 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Group pharmacy
First aid kit placed under the responsibility of your guide
Equipment to bring
- One swimsuit, one swimming cap, bathing sandals and a bath towel are required to access the Cauterets balneotherapy center.
- 1 pair of waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support
- 1 pair of comfortable shoes for the evening
Clothing to bring
• 1 sun hat or cap
• T-shirts (1 for every 2 or 3 days of hiking). Avoid cotton, which takes a very long time to dry; opt for short-sleeved t-shirts (breathable material) made of Capilène (Patagonia), Dryflo (Lowe Alpine), Light Effect (Odlo), etc.
• 1 undershirt (same remarks as above) or long-sleeved shirt
• 1 fleece fur jacket
• 1 pair of trekking trousers
• 1 pair of comfortable trousers for the evening
• 1 simple and lightweight Gore-tex style jacket
• 1 swimsuit, 1 swimming cap, bath sandals and a bath towel to be able to access the Cauterets balneotherapy centre.
• Warm underwear
• Hiking socks (1 pair for 2 to 3 days of hiking). Avoid "tennis" type socks (cotton), which take a very long time to dry and have a high risk of blisters; opt instead for those made with Coolmax, for example.
• 1 pair of waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support (Vibram-type sole)
• 1 pair of comfortable shoes for the evening
The clothing list should be adapted according to the chosen season.
Small equipment
• 1 pair of excellent quality sunglasses
• 1 bottle (1 liter minimum)
• 1 pocket knife (to be placed in checked baggage)
• Toiletries
• Toilet paper, sunscreen + lip balm
• For the picnic: cutlery
Personal pharmacy
• Your usual medications
• Vitamin C or multivitamin
• Pain medication: paracetamol preferred
• Elastic adhesive strip (Elastoplast type, 6 cm wide)
• Sets of adhesive bandages + disinfectant compresses
• Double skin (SOS Blisters by Spenco, available in sports stores, pharmacies, drugstores...)
They traveled with us
