Pyrenees Traverse: GR10 & GR11

To enjoy the Pyrenees Traverse, you need to be in excellent physical condition with the endurance to hike 15-21km per day for 10 days in a row. You should be comfortable maintaining a steady pace on steep, uneven terrain at elevations up to 2800m. There are significant ascents and descents on most days, so strong legs and a resilient attitude are essential.

This trek is rated a 4 out of 5 (Challenging+) - a step up from classic inn-to-inn treks like the TMB. It has longer distances, bigger elevation changes, and more basic accommodations. You'll be hiking 6-8 hours on most days, and there are no rest days on the itinerary.

To prepare, focus on building your aerobic fitness and leg strength through regular hiking, running, cycling or other cardio. Practice hiking long distances on consecutive days with a weighted pack on hilly trails. Work up to doing a few full-day mountain hikes (6-8 hrs, 15+km, 1000+m elevation change) to simulate a typical day on the trek.

The more hiking-specific training you do, the more you'll enjoy the stunning scenery rather than huffing and puffing! Of course, a positive attitude and sense of adventure are just as important as fitness. The rewards of crossing an entire mountain range on foot are well worth the effort.

The Pyrenees Traverse follows two famous long-distance trails - the GR10 on the French side and the GR11 on the Spanish side. These routes are popular with thru-hikers and generally well-marked and maintained. However, they are real mountain trails with some challenging terrain.

Trail surfaces Expect a variety of trail surfaces underfoot:

• Dirt singletrack through meadows and forests
• Loose, fist-sized rocks and scree
• Uneven stone steps and staircases
• Boulder fields requiring careful foot placement
• Smooth, flat sections on old roads or cart tracks

No scrambling or rock climbing is required, but there are some exposed sections with drop-offs. Trekking poles are highly recommended for stability and to minimise knee strain.

Elevation The Pyrenees Traverse has over 1000m of elevation gain/loss on most days. The trails feature:

• Long, sustained ascents and descents with few flat sections
• Switchbacks on steeper pitches
• Some short, low-angle scrambling or ladders
• Passes as high as 2800m (Brèche de Roland)
• A maximum sleeping elevation of 2200m (Goriz Refuge)

You'll definitely feel the climbs, but they aren't super steep by mountain standards. Aim for a slow, steady pace and take plenty of breaks to drink, snack and enjoy the views!

Water crossings There are several stream and river crossings on the trek, mostly in the first half:

• Stepping stones or logs over small streams
• Bridges (wood or suspension) over larger waterways
• Casual rock-hopping across wider braids
• Shallow wade through a calm section (rare)

After heavy rains, water levels can rise quickly. Your guide will ensure all crossings are safe and provide assistance if needed. Hiking poles help with balance. Wear quick-drying trail runners or water shoes if you have sensitive feet.

Trail hazards Like any alpine environment, the Pyrenees have some objective hazards to be aware of:

• Loose rock from cliffs or other hikers above you
• Slick roots, mud and leaves
• Thorny or stinging trailside vegetation
• Thunderstorms with lightning risk
• Intense sun exposure and little shade at higher elevations
• Swiftly changing temperatures and weather

The best defense is wearing appropriate attire, staying alert, and heeding your guide. They will teach you how to hike safely and avoid unnecessary risks.

With common sense and some mountain savvy, the varied terrain of the Pyrenees is a huge highlight of the trek. The exertion makes the jaw-dropping views that much sweeter!

For an authentic taste of Pyrenean trekking culture, this trip features three nights in backcountry mountain refuges (plus one in a village auberge). Staying in these rustic accommodations allows you to experience the most scenic corners of the range without carrying a full pack.

However, refuge life is quite basic compared to hotels. Here's what to expect in terms of sleeping arrangements and bathrooms:

Sleeping

• Mixed dormitories with bunk beds sleeping anywhere from 6 to 20 people
• Pillows and blankets provided (bring your own sleep sheet or sleeping bag liner)
• Bed assignments are first-come, first-served (no pre-booking)
• Earplugs are essential due to snoring and late-night bathroom visits
• Wake-up is early and lights-out is around 10pm (varies by refuge)
• There are usually no power outlets in the dorms (charge devices in common areas)
• Quiet time is observed after dinner so hikers can get a good night's rest

Bathrooms

• Shared toilets and showers down the hall from the dorms
• Toilets are usually western flush or composting style
• Toilet paper provided but you must bring your own soap and towel
• Limited number of shower stalls with hot water (5-10 minutes max)
• Shower queue can be long in the evenings, so be prepared to wait
• Sinks for getting ready, but no hair dryers or space to spread out toiletries
• Everything is unisex and quite basic, but reasonably clean

While the refuge experience is more like an alpine bunkhouse than a hotel, most trekkers find that the incredible locations, social atmosphere and welcome simplicity more than make up for the lack of frills.

You'll be sharing close quarters with fellow hikers from all walks of life, so embrace the communal vibe and pack your sense of adventure along with your ear plugs! Swapping trail stories over hearty Pyrenean dinners and watching the sunset from a refuge terrace are memories you'll treasure long after the trek.

Staying connected with folks back home is trickier in the Pyrenees than more populated mountain areas. The national park is quite remote and crossing borders adds an extra wrinkle. But with a little advance planning, it's still possible to check in a few times during your trek. Here's an overview of your communication options:

Cell Service

• 4G/LTE usually available in larger towns like Luchon, St Lary, Gavarnie and Torla
• 3G or voice-only service may be found in small villages, ski stations and on some high passes
• No service in most valleys, forests and remote sections of the trek (Néouvielle, Ordesa, etc.)
• French and Spanish carriers have different coverage areas

To use your own phone, be sure your plan includes international roaming with data for both countries. Charges can add up quickly, so consider buying a prepaid local SIM for more affordable pay-as-you-go rates. You'll need an unlocked phone that accepts international SIMs.

WiFi

• All hotels have free WiFi, though some networks can be slow or glitchy
• The auberge in Germ has WiFi but it's quite limited
• The mountain refuges do NOT have WiFi

When you do find a good connection, take advantage of it to upload photos, answer emails or make a quick video call. But try not to stay glued to your screen - you'll miss soaking in the scenery and socializing with your trek mates!

Satellite Communication If you need to stay in touch for work or family reasons, consider renting or buying a satellite communication device like the Garmin inReach or Somewear Global Hotspot. These palm-sized gadgets let you send and receive texts via satellite from anywhere on Earth. Some models also have GPS tracking and SOS functions for emergencies.

While pricey, satcomms are the only way to relay messages in real-time from deep in the Pyrenean wilderness. They're increasingly popular with guides and thru-hikers for peace of mind in the backcountry.

Protocol Whatever tech setup you choose, we recommend establishing a communication protocol with folks back home before you leave. Let them know your trek dates, a basic itinerary and the level of contact to expect.

With limited WiFi and cell coverage, it's best to plan on checking in every few days when you're in a village or hotel. Manage expectations around response times and emphasize that no news is good news.

Your guide will also have a satellite phone or device for emergencies, and our local office monitors each group's progress along the route. Should something unexpected happen, rest assured we can get in touch with your emergency contacts.

But remember, unplugging from your everyday life and connecting with nature is one of the joys of a multi-day trek. Trust that your guide has everything under control and give yourself permission to live in the moment amidst the Pyrenees' rugged beauty. The emails (and the rest of the world) will be waiting when you finish!

While the Pyrenees Traverse package includes most of your major expenses like accommodations, luggage transfers and many meals, you'll still need to budget for some extras along the way. Here's a rough guide to what costs to expect and how much cash to bring:

Food and drink

• Dinner on 5 nights: €25-30 per meal
• Lunch on 3 days: €10-20 per meal
• Snacks and drinks: €5-15 per day
• Coffee or tea breaks: €2-5 each

Tips

• Mountain refuges: €2-5 per night (optional)
• Trekking guide: €50-100 per person for the trip (optional but customary, given in cash at the end)
• Drivers: a few euros per person for airport transfers

Miscellaneous

• Laundry: €10-15 per load (most villages have a laundromat or hotel service)
• Souvenirs: variable but allow €50-100 if you like to shop
• Postcards and stamps: €1-2 per card

We recommend bringing around €350-500 in cash per person to comfortably cover these extras. Euros are accepted everywhere, but it can be tricky to break large bills in small villages. Bring a mix of denominations and try to get change when you can.

ATMs are available in Luchon, St Lary, Gavarnie and Torla but may be out of service or out of cash on weekends. Plan to withdraw a few days' worth of cash at a time rather than relying on ATMs daily.

Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops, but smaller cafes, refuges and taxis may be cash only. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express.

If you're really worried about running out of cash, consider bringing a backup card or some extra emergency euros just in case. But in general, €350-500 per person is plenty for incidentals on the trek.

Keep in mind that tipping is always optional and should reflect your satisfaction with the services provided. Don't feel obligated to tip if you're unhappy with something, but do let us know so we can address any issues.

It's also a good idea to bring a small amount of local currency for any pre- or post-trek travels in France or Spain. Check exchange rates before you go and allow time to visit a bank or ATM on arrival.

Other potential costs to budget for that are not included in the trek package:

• Flights or train tickets to/from Toulouse
• Extra hotel nights before or after the trek
• Private airport transfers
• Travel insurance
• Gear rentals or purchases
• Baggage fees
• Charging batteries
• Massages or spa treatments

Making a budget (and sticking to it) will help you manage your money on the trek and avoid running out of cash at an inconvenient moment. Making a budget (and sticking to it) will help you manage your money on the trek and avoid running out of cash at an inconvenient moment. Build in a small buffer for unexpected extras and splurges - you are on holiday after all!

Packing for the Pyrenees Traverse involves striking a balance between being prepared for all conditions and not overpacking. Remember, you'll need to carry everything on your back for several days at a time! With strategic layering and multi-use items, you can keep your load light without sacrificing comfort or safety. Here's a suggested packing list:

Luggage

• 35-45L backpack with rain cover
• 1 medium duffel (70-90L) for luggage transfers
• Dry bags or stuff sacks to organise gear
• Small daypack or summit pack for side hikes (optional)

Clothing

• 2-3 quick-dry hiking shirts
• 1-2 lightweight hiking trousers
• 1-2 shorts or convertible pants
• 1 set thermal baselayers (top and bottom)
• 2-3 pairs hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
• 3-4 pairs underwear
• Sports bra
• Warm hat and sun hat
• Buff or neck gaiter
• Lightweight gloves
• Rain jacket with hood
• Rain pants or poncho
• Warm jacket (fleece or synthetic)
• Down or synthetic vest
• Casual outfit and shoes for evenings

Footwear

• Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
• Lightweight trail runners or approach shoes
• Camp shoes (crocs, slides or sandals)
• Gaiters (optional but recommended)

Gear

• Trekking poles (collapsible or telescoping)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water bottles or hydration system (2-3L capacity)
• Water filter or purification tablets
• Sleeping bag liner (silk or cotton)
• Compact quick-dry towel
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 30+)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
• Personal first aid kit (blister treatment, painkillers, antihistamines, etc.)
• Insect repellent
• Pocketknife or multi-tool
• Ziploc bags (various sizes)

Electronics

• Mobile phone with charger and adapter
• Backup power bank
• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
• Headphones
• GPS device or watch (optional)

Documents and Money

• Passport and photocopies
• Travel insurance information
• Cash (euros) and credit/debit cards
• Any printouts or digital files for the trek

Other

• Notebook and pen
• Maps or guidebooks (optional)
• Snacks and energy bars
• Earplugs and eye mask
• Small binoculars (optional)
• Plastic bags for laundry or wet items

A few tips for packing efficiently:

• Choose lightweight, quick-drying, breathable fabrics
• Avoid cotton which takes forever to dry
• Dress in layers that you can easily add or remove
• Pack clothes that can be mixed and matched
• Compress bulky items like jackets and sleeping bags
• Place heavy items at the bottom of your pack
• Keep essentials like rain gear and snacks easily accessible
• Use stuff sacks or packing cubes to stay organised
• Leave room for some souvenirs!

Remember, you'll have luggage transfers on 6 of the 10 hiking days, so you don't need to carry all your gear every day. Bring a few creature comforts for the hotel nights, but keep your refuges nights as minimal as possible.

If you're missing any key items, outdoor shops in Luchon or Gavarnie may have what you need. But it's best to arrive fully equipped so you're not stressed about gear on the trail.

Most importantly, break in your boots and test your backpack on training hikes well before your trip. The best trekking gear is the kind you forget you're wearing because it fits so well!

With savvy packing and a well-fitted pack, you'll barely notice you're carrying your life on your back as you traverse the wild heart of the Pyrenees. The breathtaking scenery will make every ounce worth it.

As a trekker in the spectacular yet fragile Pyrenees, it's crucial to practice responsible tourism and minimise your ecological footprint. The mountains may look rugged, but their ecosystems are surprisingly delicate and vulnerable to human impact. Here are some ways you can tread lightly and protect the environment while trekking:

Follow Leave No Trace principles

• Plan ahead and prepare (research the area, check weather, pack appropriately)
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces (stay on marked trails, avoid shortcuts)
• Dispose of waste properly (pack out all trash, use designated toilets or bury human waste)
• Leave what you find (don't take rocks, plants or artifacts)
• Minimise campfire impacts (use a stove instead, keep fires small)
• Respect wildlife (observe from a distance, don't feed animals)
• Be considerate of other visitors (keep noise down, yield to uphill hikers)

Reduce plastic waste

• Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it from taps or streams
• Use a hydration bladder instead of disposable water bottles
• Pack snacks in reusable containers
• Avoid single-use plastics like straws, utensils and shopping bags
• Choose toiletries in eco-friendly packaging (or go package-free)
• Recycle plastics when possible (most villages have bins)

Conserve water and energy

• Take short showers instead of baths
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use
• Hang clothes to dry instead of using a dryer
• Reuse towels and sheets for a few days
• Carry your own soap and shampoo to avoid using single-use hotel toiletries
• Eat locally-sourced foods that don't require long-distance transport

Support local conservation efforts

• Stay on authorized trails to avoid trampling sensitive plants
• Report any environmental issues you see to park rangers
• Participate in trail maintenance or cleanup projects if offered
• Donate to organizations that protect the Pyrenees
• Educate yourself and others about Pyrenean ecology and conservation

Choose responsible tour operators

• Ask about environmental policies before booking
• Look for companies that support local communities and conservation
• Favor those who hire local guides, use local accommodations and minimise transport
• Avoid operators who engage in greenwashing or unethical practices

Offset your carbon footprint

• Choose a reputable offsetting program to balance the emissions from your trip
• Look for projects that promote renewable energy, reforestation or habitat protection
• Consider offsetting your flights as well as ground emissions
• Reduce your overall carbon footprint at home so you have less to offset

The Pyrenees are one of Europe's last great wilderness areas, home to rare species like the brown bear, lammergeier vulture, and izard (Pyrenean chamois). By being a responsible trekker, you're helping to ensure these mountains remain pristine for generations to come.

At Salamander Adventures, we're committed to low-impact, sustainable tourism practices. We work closely with local communities, support conservation initiatives, and educate our trekkers on Leave No Trace ethics. Our hope is that by experiencing the raw beauty of the Pyrenees first-hand, you'll become an advocate for their protection long after your trek ends.

Remember, the mountains are a privilege, not a right. Tread softly, take only photos, leave only footprints, and always strive to leave the Pyrenees better than you found them. Happy (and sustainable) trekking!

The Pyrenees span two countries with proud and distinct cultural traditions - France and Spain. On the Pyrenees Traverse, you'll hike through both French and Spanish Catalonia, Aragon, and Occitania, each with their own unique customs, languages and identities. While the locals are generally welcoming to respectful visitors, it's important to be aware of some key cultural norms to avoid any faux pas along the way.

Language

• In France, the official language is French, but you may also hear Occitan, Catalan or Basque spoken in the Pyrenees.
• In Spain, the official languages are Spanish (Castilian) and Catalan. In the Aragon region, a dialect called Aragonese is also spoken.
• English is not widely spoken in rural areas, so it's helpful to learn a few basic phrases in French and Spanish for greetings, ordering food, etc.
• Don't assume someone who looks Spanish will speak Spanish and vice versa - always ask politely what language they prefer.

Greetings

• In France, it's customary to say "bonjour" (hello) when entering a shop, restaurant or hotel, even if you don't plan to purchase anything.
• In Spain, "hola" or "buenos días/tardes" (good morning/afternoon) are common greetings.
• When introduced to someone, shake hands and say "enchanté(e)" (nice to meet you) in French or "mucho gusto" in Spanish.
• Cheek kissing (la bise) is a common greeting among friends in France, but not with strangers.

Mealtimes and dining etiquette

• Mealtimes are sacred in both France and Spain - don't expect restaurants to be open outside of designated lunch and dinner hours.
• Lunch is the main meal of the day and is typically served from 12-2pm in France and 1-3pm in Spain. Many shops and businesses close for a few hours to allow for a leisurely lunch.
• Dinner is lighter and served later, usually from 7-9pm in France and 8-10pm in Spain. Don't show up at 6pm expecting to be seated!
• Table manners are important - keep your hands visible (not in your lap), don't begin eating until the host says "bon appétit", and don't ask for doggy bags or split the bill.
• Tipping is not required but appreciated for good service. Round up to the nearest euro or leave a few coins on the table.

Dress code

• The Pyrenees are more traditional than big cities, so it's best to dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or villages.
• Avoid wearing revealing clothing like tank tops or short shorts unless you're at the beach.
• Hiking gear is perfectly acceptable in mountain refuges and on the trail, but change into clean, casual clothing for hotels and restaurants.
• Bring a light scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when entering religious sites.

Festivals and holidays

• The Pyrenees have many colourful festivals throughout the year celebrating local saints, harvests, and traditions.
• If your trek coincides with a festival, expect crowds, noise, and reduced services in some areas. Book accommodations well in advance.
• Major public holidays in France include Bastille Day (July 14), All Saints' Day (Nov 1) and Armistice Day (Nov 11). In Spain, they include Assumption Day (Aug 15), Hispanic Day (Oct 12) and All Saints' Day (Nov 1).
• During public holidays, most businesses will be closed and public transport may be limited. Plan ahead and check opening hours.

Hiking etiquette

• Greet fellow hikers on the trail with a friendly "bonjour" or "hola".
• Yield to uphill hikers and let faster hikers pass.
• Give livestock like sheep or cattle a wide berth and don't disturb them.
• Close any gates you open and respect private property.
• Carry your own toilet paper and pack out all waste.
• Minimise noise and avoid loud conversations in nature.

By following these simple guidelines and respecting local customs, you'll have a much richer and more authentic experience in the Pyrenees. Don't be afraid to try out your French or Spanish, even if it's not perfect - locals appreciate the effort and will often meet you halfway with gestures and a smile.

Remember, you are a guest in these communities and mountains. A little cultural sensitivity goes a long way towards fostering goodwill and leaving a positive impression of trekkers. Embrace the opportunity to learn about Pyrenean traditions and see the world from a different perspective - it's one of the joys of travel!