Hiking Collection by Julien Harté
Hike from Gavarnie to Ordesa – A breathtaking loop in the cirques
4 days
5-12 h/day
60.6km
4,470m
4,530m
This odyssey plunges you into the heart of glacial cirques of extraordinary scale and remarkable biodiversity. Gradually, you climb the massif, enjoying the variety of landscapes. The Brèche de Roland – a stunning gap between towering rock walls – opens the door to Spain. Next, the impressive Vire des Fleurs (flower ridge) takes you over the Ordesa canyon. Finally, you arrive at a high mountain mineral world that gives you access to one of the highest peaks in the Pyrenees, Mont Perdu.
In good weather when the trails are free of snow, this hike is quite accessible provided you are used to high mountains. I advise you to wait for the last snow to melt and to schedule your adventure between the beginning of July and mid-September.
This will allow you to take full advantage of the richness of the fauna and flora. Many chamois present themselves to the more discreet and attentive hikers. If you’re patient, it’s possible to observe the emblematic bearded vultures that fly over the massif. The marmots won’t fail to signal their presence either, so keep your eyes and ears open in the valleys.
The stages that I propose lead you to a refuge every evening. However, according to park rules, there are many bivouac possibilities in a wide variety of settings: unspoilt valleys, peaks above 3,000 metres (9,843 ft), and the edges of lakes and mountain waterfalls. You can stock up on water in the refuges, but I strongly advise you to bring filtering bottles or purifying tablets. You can also take advantage of the refuges to lighten your load with a few meals, but remember to book them in advance.
Gavarnie, the start/finish of this wonderful hike, is accessible via the 965 liO bus line. Timetables change according to the season so be sure to check their website: mestrajets.lio.laregion.fr (in French). If you come by car, don't forget to pay for parking in the village.
Have a good adventure!
PS: If you liked this Collection, think about discovering this other one: komoot.com/collection/1564174.
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Trek from Gavarnie to Ordesa
60.2km
4,400m
4,400m
Last updated: November 7, 2024
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Activities
1. Stage 1: Gavarnie to the Sarradets refuge – hike from Gavarnie to Ordesa
14.3km
06:23
1,460m
290m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
2. Stage 2: Sarradets refuge to the Goriz refuge – hike from Gavarnie to Ordesa
23.6km
12:21
1,510m
1,900m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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3. Stage 3: Goriz refuge to the Tuquerouye refuge – hike from Gavarnie to Ordesa
9.48km
06:44
1,210m
800m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4. Stage 4: Tuquerouye refuge to Gavarnie – hike from Gavarnie to Ordesa
13.3km
05:45
290m
1,540m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Collection Stats
Activities
4
Distance
60.6 km
Duration
31:14 h
Elevation
4,470 m
4,530 m
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