Pyrenees, 22 – 29 September 2024

Pyrenees, 22 – 29 September 2024

Ordesa National Park – Monte Perdido

ACTIVE PERIOD
22 – 29 September 2024
Open dates every summer for ready groups of 4+ people
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
3
DURATION
8 days
Pyrenees, 22 – 29 September 2024
Price from €1200
PRICE FROM € 1200 - DECLARE INTEREST

Overview

A hard but enchanting hike, in Mont Perdu (Monte Perdido in Spanish means the Lost Mountain), which crosses the Franco-Spanish natural border. Mount Mont Perdu separates the gorges of Ordesa and Pineta and its highest peak is the homonymous Mont Perdu with an altitude of 3,355, which we will climb. It belongs to the Tres Serol (Three Sisters) mountain range, which consists of Cylindre du Marboré, Soum de Ramond and Mont Perdu which form the highest limestone massif in Europe. Throughout the massif there are 22 peaks with an altitude of over 3000 meters, while on the north side of Monte Perdido lies one of the last glaciers still in the Pyrenees, although with constant retreat

Here lies a complex of gorges, lakes and giant natural amphitheaters with waterfalls. They unfold on both sides of the mountain range that hides within it an amazing diversity of landscapes and colors. The peaks are characterized by the intense relief and climatic contrasts for which the ridge itself, which is the natural border between the two states, is responsible. However, this area of about 156 square kilometers constitutes a compact geographical and cultural unit, "a small country we are", everyone says, "which was nevertheless divided by the borders of Spain and France".

Designated as a National Park since 1918, it contains 1,500 species of flowers, 8 species of reptiles, 32 species of mammals and 171 species of birds, among them the bearded vulture Bearded vulture with a wingspan of 3 meters, one of the few remaining spots in Europe where one can see it.

The Tres Serols - Mont-Perdu Mountain range has been included in the UNESCO list of World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites since 1997. 

For your participation you are required to have previous experience, good physical condition and be able to carry your backpack yourself.

View on map
Day 1
Flight to Barcelona - transfer to Pyrenees
Day 2
March to the Breche de Roland refuge
Day 3
March to the Espuguettes refuge
Day 4
Marches to the Pineta reserve
Day 5
March to the Goriz Reserve
Day 6
Climb to Monte Perdido peak, 3,355 m
Day 7
Complete trekking, transfer Barcelona
Day 8
Return flight.

Activities / Schedule

Flight to Barcelona - transfer to Pyrenees

Flight Athens - Barcelona and transfer with a rental van of 9 seats to  the National Park of Ordesa and Monte Perdido. Overnight at the Bojaruelo refuge at an altitude  of 1,270 m (330 km; 4.30 hours). The refuge is strategically located on the edge of the protected area of the National Park, between three beautiful valleys, that of Ordesa, Panticosa and Gavarnie.

From here we will start a 6-day circular course, around Mont Perdu (D)

 

Note: Those who wish can go to Barcelona earlier to visit the city

March to the Breche de Roland refuge

We start our journey by passing the river Ara that flows next to the refuge, crossing the stone bridge of Bujaruelo, a bridge of the 14thcentury.  Gradually, the trail leaves behind the forest and enters the alpine zone of the mountain, constantly ascending. We cross the border with France and reach the col Sarradets which connects us to the valley of Gavarnie.

Shortly after the col we reach the refuge Breche de Roland at an altitude of 2,565 m. where we will spend the night. The lodge is located on a balcony with panoramic views of Cirque de Gavarnie and the high peaks. It is named after the Rolando Chasm, a giant natural gate that allows entry to the high peaks of the complex. 

The course of the day is constantly uphill with an altitude difference of +1,270 m and 8 1/2 km of route that we will cover in 5-6 hours (B.PL.D.)

March to the Espuguettes refuge

We start early in the morning, descending to the valley of Gavarnie and constantly having a view of Cirque de Gavarnie and the famous waterfalls of Gavarnie. Cirque de Gavarnie, the "Colosseum of nature" according to Victor Hugo as he called it because of its huge size and its resemblance to a horseshoe that make it seem like an ancient amphitheater sculpted by nature.

The staggered waterfalls with a total fall height of 422 meters, are the largest waterfalls in mainland France created by melting glaciers. After descending to the valley below the waterfalls, we pass to the opposite side of the valley and ascend to the Espuguettes refuge (2027 m), where we will spend the night (B. PL.D.)

Total route 8 km, -1.080 m + 510 m. Duration 4-5 hours

Forgueta col – Pineta refuge

After breakfast we start for another crossing of the Franco-Spanish border towards the Circo de Pineta. The route passes through the col Forqueta (2,466 m) and the "Balcony of Pineta", descending to the steep side of the Circo de Pineta, leaving on our right the North side of Monte Perdido.

Crossing forests of pines, firs and beeches, we descend into the magnificent valley of Pineta, a majestic U-shaped glacial valley, bounded by high and steep peaks and slopes full of waterfalls.

Accommodation  in the refuge of Pineta (1240 m.), in front of which passes the river Cinca (B.PL.D)

Total route 14 km, +700 m – 1480 m, 7 hours

March to the Goriz refuge

Today we have before us the most difficult day of hiking the whole route, but at the same time very beautiful since the course moves in the heart of the National Park of Ordesa and Monte Perdido crossing gorges, valleys, small waterfalls and rivers formed by glaciers.

Accommodation in the Goriz refuge (2200 m.) which is located in a dazzling place surrounded by the gorge of Goriz and above it rises Monte Perdido (B.PL.D.)

Total route 12 km, ascent +1730 m – 780 m, duration 8-10 hours

Ascent to Monte Perdido peak, 3,355 m

Today is dedicated to our ascent to the highest peak of the complex and third highest peak of the Pyrenees, Monte  Perdido.

Along with the sunrise we start from the refuge and in a short time we are led to Campo de Bloques. As its name suggests, it is an area sculpted by glaciers that left behind a landscape full of rocks of all sizes. Then our course is through rocky passages where we will need to use our hands as well. After a  passage with the help of a chain, we find ourselves in a beautiful alpine lake hidden among the rocks, Ibon Chelau at an altitude of 2990 m.

Finally, we pass the well-known La Escupidera which will lead us to our top. Return from the same route back to the shelter for overnight stay. Depending on weather conditions and visibility we may choose a different route for our return.

Day route 4.7  km, +1140 m, 4-5 hours

Torla and transport Barcelona

We start early in the morning for the final hike to Pradera de Ordesa (1320). The trail moves next to the gorge of the mountain river Arazas and gradually descends to the depth of the valley where the river creates the waterfall Cola de Caballo (Horse's Tail) which hundreds of visitors climb daily to see. It is probably the most  famous trail in this area, but also very beautiful as it offers panoramic views for the most part accompanied by waterfalls.

After passing the waterfalls, la Cueva and el Estrecho, we enter the forest to reach after 3 km the parking lot where the hike ends. By local bus we are transferred to the village of Torla (15 minutes) thus completing the circular route around Monte Perdido mountain.

Then with our van we depart for Barcelona 320 km, 4 hours. Accommodation  in Silver Apart Hotel 3* or similar  in Barcelona, in double rooms with bathroom and breakfast (B)

Hiking day route 12 km, +30m - 932m and total duration 4 hours.

Return flight

Depending on the time of the return flight, free time for walks in the city (B). If the flights are not the same for the whole group, then the transfer to the airport is not included in the price.

Important Info

In a glance

SURFACE AREA
A 480 km long mountain range separating Spain and France
TIMEZONE
-1 hour from Greece

Highlights

  • Hiking in the Central Pyrenees and Ordesa National Park, included in the UNESCO list of monuments
  • An authentic multi-day hike with own strength and complete independence
  • Cirque de Gavarnie or "Colosseum of Nature", according to Victor Hugo
  • The spectacular Brèche de Roland gap 100 meters high
  • Ascent to the highest peak Monte Perdido at 3,355 m
  • Full board during trekking
  • Two Greek escorts

Fixed Departures

  • 22 – 29 September 2024*

  • Open dates every summer for ready groups of 4+ people

Price

  • 1.200 €/ person (for 7-10 persons)

Note 1: The above prices are valid for the specific trip, dates and services described. However, it is possible to implement the trip with any changes requested and for small ready groups of up to 8 people, with any desired change of services. We are at your disposal if you contact us.

Note 2: The issue of  air tickets is subject to availability and prices in force at the time of issue. Very early planning is a key factor in securing seats and a good price. Otherwise, the flights on which the trip was planned may not be available and departure, return and perhaps travel duration may need to be shifted.

Difficulty Level

  • 3/5

General Information

Clarifications: B=breakfast, PL=packed lunch, D=dinner

Accommodation

Accommodation is in mountain shelters (6 days with breakfast and dinner), and one day in a hotel. The shelters have blankets and you can only carry an indoor liner for your sleep. However, if people are concerned about cleanliness, they can bring their own sleeping bag with them. We recommend taking a light down sleeping bag that has a small volume and weight. In shelters we also recommend that you bring a set of earplugs with you.

Finally, because sleeping while wearing isotherms may cause you discomfort, you can carry a set of thin cotton pajamas.

Hot baths are provided in all shelters, except for the shelter of the Espunguettes.

Wi-fi exists in addition to the shelterof Gavarnie and Espuguettes.

At the end of the programme in Barcelona, anyone who wishes can stay for extra nights in Barcelona by making the appropriate accommodation and air reservations.

Food 

Dinner and breakfast at the shelters are included. During the marches you will be provided with packed lunch that everyone will carry in their backpack (except for the last day). If someone wishes, they can have with them some light weight energy bars to supplement during the courses.

Switch plans

The escort of our office has the ability to modify the program if weather or other local conditions (strikes, political unrest, etc.) impose it, with the main criterion being the smooth development of the program and the safety of the participants. Any costs arising from such changes shall be covered by the participants.

Weather

The weather in the Pyrenees during the summer months varies considerably. It has great transitions, from hot and calm days to cold and rainy. Therefore, temperatures range from 0o C to 25o C. As we move in mountains rains are possible, so proper equipment is required. Note that in bad weather the difficulty of hikes increases greatly.

Tip

Tipping is an optional gesture that is usually omitted even by happy travelers. However, such a substantial reward to a consistent escort who has exaggerated to offer the best possible to the participants, helps the escort to be happy with his work and maintain his fun and energy.

Insurance / insurance

The cost of the trip includes Basic travel insurance, which covers various contingencies such as health contingencies (eg injury on a course at an altitude of up to 3,000 m, which requires transportation and hospitalization), missed flight and other cases, even coverage of total cancellation of the trip for an amount up to 5,000 € including cancellation due to covid-19

The coverage included is for ages up to 70 years old, while for ages 70 to 80 an additional amount is required, ask us for information.

In the following link you can see the benefits of the program and contact our insurance consultant to answer your questions about Travel Insurance coverage by Trekking Hellas

Book your seat

To book your seat, you must first read  the booking conditions and, if you accept them, then fill in the PARTICIPATION FORM here.

After completing the Registration Form and within 3 days you will have to send a deposit of 500 €. The payment of the trip must be completed gradually up to one month before departure. Air tickets, in case their issuance is undertaken by our office, must be prepaid. Any cancellation of air tickets is subject to the conditions and restrictions of each airline and is not covered by the cancellation conditions described above.

The deposit and the payment should be sent to the account of ALPHA BANK with IBAN number: GR1001407960796002002013550, under the name OUTDOORS TRAINING IKE.

During the money transfer or deposit process, write down your name and the name of the trip in the REASON field.

Cancellation policy

In case of cancellation, the following cancellation fees apply

  • Any cancellation made from the day of booking until departure, will be charged with 50 € per person for administrative fees. In addition to this amount, the following cancellation fees apply
  • Cancellation from 44 to 30 days before departure: 40% of the total cost of the trip.
  • Cancellation from 29 to 14 days before departure: 75% of the total cost of the trip.
  • Cancellation from 13 days before departure until departure (non show): 100% of the total cost of the trip.

Equipment

  • Backpack 35-45 liters with waterproof cover
  • 2-season sleeping bag, small in volume and light
  • Hiking shoes, preferably waterproof and with a hard sole or semi-rigid
  • 2 hiking pants long (one wears the other in the backpack)
  • 2 sets of thermal underwear (one wears the other in the backpack)
  • 2 fleece blouses thin
  • 2-3 g. hiking socks
  • Hygiene kit (small green soap, small toothpaste and toothbrush, small towel, etc.)
  • 1 waterproof jacket, preferably breathable
  • 1 waterproof pants
  • Fleece jacket thick
  • Buff, gloves and hat for sun and air
  • Hiking poles folding
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Water bottle with a capacity of more than one liter
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Toilet paper
  • Plastic food container for picnic
  • 2-3 spare energy bars for emergency

Note that the backpack is carried by ourselves and therefore should have only the absolutely necessary clothes and equipment inside and be as light as possible. The technique we recommend for not carrying a lot of clothes and weight, is to have with you only 1 set of medium and outer clothes, and only 2 sets of your underwear (isotherms, socks), and every day in the shelter wash with the green soap that you wore in the morning.

Pyrenees, 22 – 29 September 2024

Ordesa National Park – Monte Perdido

Price from €1200

DECLARE INTEREST

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