Walk the GR10 and discover the French Pyrenees
Our GR10 highlights combines huge glacial landscapes, mountain lakes and traditional Pyrenean villages. Get off the beaten track and discover the wild beauty and rich culture of the French Pyrénées - a truly stunning mountain range and one of Europe’s hidden gems. This serrated chain of peaks forms a dramatic natural border between France and Spain, offering pristine landscapes, and rare wildlife - from soaring griffon vultures to the elusive brown bear.
Our journey takes us along quiet, uncrowded trails where every step reveals another side of the region’s appeal. Beyond the rugged mountains and sweeping valleys, we encounter traditional stone villages, centuries-old shepherding traditions, and the warm hospitality of local people. The Pyrénées are as much about culture as they are about wilderness - with rustic inns, hearty mountain food, and vibrant customs adding depth to the adventure.
Highlights
- Hike below the glaciers of the high peak of Vignemale
- Spend a night in the highest refuge in the Pyrenees
- Enjoy stunning summer flowers and autumn colours
- A night at the famous beauty spot of Lac d'Oô
- Experience a pristine mountain landscape
- Fabulous family run characterful hotels
- First class professional guide
Here, dramatic scenery and authentic heritage come together, creating a hiking experience that is both memorable and deeply rewarding. The Pyrénées are a range of mountains in southwest Europe forming a natural border between Spain and France. The complete traverse of this mountain range crosses from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, a total of 954km (596 miles), and 53,000 metres (173,840ft) of ascent and descent. In one week we will hike across the most spectacular section of the GR 10 taking in wild mountains, unspoilt valleys, and scenery that is simply stunning.
Holiday Reviews
Grade: Advanced
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Walking |
| Duration | 9 Days |
| Group Size | 4-10 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 2800m (9184ft) |
| Countries Visited | France |
| Meet In | Lourdes, France |
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PYE1 |
04 Sep 2027
Saturday |
12 Sep 2027
Sunday |
9 days |
£2,595
Deposit: £700 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
What's Included
- Guiding services of a qualified International Mountain Leader
- Eight nights accommodation; dinner, bed and breakfast
- Luggage transfers daily; except 1 night in mountain refuge
- Transfer on arrival day from Lourdes to Gavarnie
- Cable car descent to Bagneres-de-Luchon
- Transfer on Day 2 to Luz-Saint-Sauveur
- Transfer on Day 3 to Troubaloup
- Transfer on Day 5 to St Lary
What's Not Included
- Lunches
- Travel Insurance - required
- Travel to meeting point
- Travel on departure day
- Miscellaneous personal spending
Itinerary
We meet our transfer taxi in the city of Lourdes - gateway to the Pyrenees and world famous as a pilgrimage destination. We travel to the mountain village of Gavarnie which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for the spectacular Cirque de Gavarnie with its massive rock faces, and its waterfalls. Our welcome meeting, when you will have the chance to learn more about the week ahead, will be followed by dinner with your guide.
This morning we hike from our hotel door as we head for the famous high plateau of Saugué. This high-altitude meadow, sitting at around 1680 m (5,510ft) offers one of the best panoramic views of the Cirque de Gavarnie, the Grande Cascade, and the surrounding Pyrenean peaks. Once we reach the plateau, with its quaint cow barns, we turn north following a balcony trail which crosses the mountainside. We swing into a wild valley, before beginning our second traverse which takes us down through woodland to the parking area at Granges de Bué where we take a transfer to our overnight in the historic town of Luz-St-Sauveur.
Ascent: 750m (2,460ft) Descent: 677m (2,220ft) Distance: 14.9km (9.3miles) Duration: 6h-6h30
The town of Luz which is part of the Pyrenees National Park has attracted many famous visitors over the years such as Napolean 111. The Emperor with his consort, Empress Eugénie, visited in 1859. He commissioned the dramatic Pont Napoléon across the gorge and supported the construction of the Solférino chapel. You can still spot their initials, N and E, on the chapel. Spa visitors once travelled the streets in sedan chairs when those staying in Luz were carried to the baths at Saint-Sauveur to avoid muddy paths and tiring walks. Empress Eugénie’s visit even prompted the provision of a more elegant sedan chair from Vichy! This morning we leave the ancient streets behind, and climb once more into the mountains. Woodland gives us shade today as we begin our rising traverse towards the Pic de Ayré. This area is rich in natural heritage, and has no fewer than eleven protected sites of ecological interest many of which support species only found in the Pyrenees. Eventually we head down through forest to the valley and our overnight in the Pyrenean village of Barèges.
Ascent: 883m (2,896ft) Descent: 342m (1,121ft) Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) Duration: 6h-6h30
We begin with a short valley transfer to the Pont de Gaubie, near the foot of the famous Col du Tourmalet, a regular on the Tour de France route. From here the path climbs through flower meadows and mountain pastures where native cattle graze, up to the Col Madamète (2509m / 8229ft) and the lakes Aumar, Aubert and Lacquettes, all within the Néouvielle nature reserve. Created in 1936, it is the third oldest reserve in France. Its name likely comes from the Occitan nèu (“snow”) and vielha (“old”), a nod to the glaciers that once covered the area. Keep an eye out for isards, the Pyrenean chamois, and plenty of marmots. We finish the day at Lac d’Orédon, with a drink on the terrace as the sun sets.
Ascent: 1080m (3542ft) Descent: 750m (2361ft) Distance: 18km (11.25 miles) Duration: 7h-8h
This morning we awake by the lovely Lac d'Orédon. After breakfast we begin our day with a climb through the pine forest to a high pass which has incredible views of the mountains which await us. In early summer this climb features the beautiful pink flowers of the We wake beside Lac d’Orédon and, after breakfast, climb through pine forest to the Col d’Estoudou (2260m / 7412ft). The views of the mountains ahead make it our first big photo stop. In early summer the climb is lined with pink Alpenrose and other mountain flowers, many unique to the Pyrénées. From the col, we descend steadily through the forest to the Lac de l’Oule, where local cattle are often found grazing or even taking a swim. Then we climb to the famous Col de Portet (2215m / 7265ft), the highest road pass in the French Pyrénées and a Tour de France stage finish in 2019. In a bid to save your knees from a massive descent, you will be picked up at the Col and transferred down to the valley to the town of St Lary, which has plenty of cafes, bars and shops to explore.
Ascent: 783m (2568ft) Descent: 441m (1446ft) Distance: 10km (6.25 miles) Duration: 5h-6h
Today we can take our time over breakfast as we have a gentle day of lovely traditional villages. We will make our way from Saint Lary via the traditional Pyrenean communities of Estensen, Azet, and Loudenvielle with their ancient water mills and 'lavoirs' where the weekly washing of clothes was done. We climb through meadows on a shady trail until eventually we arrive at a high pass and look down on the town of Loudenvielle. The town lies at the foot of the Col de Peyresourde and has hosted three stage finishes in the Tour de France. We will often have lunch in the town at a small cafe situated right beside the GR10. In the afternoon we have a final short sharp climb of one hour to the gorgeous village of Germ. There are many traditional buildings in Germ and it is a lovely place to spend the evening.
Ascent: 1100m (3608ft) Descent: 650m (2132ft) Distance: 15km (9.3 miles) Duration: 5h-6h
At Germ we wake up to more superb views of the French and Spanish summits of the Pyrenees. The mountain lifestyle and agricultural traditions reign heavily in this particular area and we often pass farmers with their herd dogs beginning their day of work. From the ancient village of Germ the GR10 heads back into the high mountains to cross the Couret d’Esquierry at an altitude of 2131m (6989ft). In early summer our route features many fine examples of Pyrenean flowers native to the area. We traverse the mountainside in the shade of the morning to reach an immense bowl where the cattle herds graze on the lush mountain grass. After a brief rest we begin our climb proper to the Couret d’Esquierry where we can enjoy a view of our route down to Les Granges d'Astau where we can have some lunch. We then have a final leisurely climb to our mountain refuge where we will spend the night by the stunning waterfall and lake of Lac d'Oô. This is a famous beauty spot where we will find many people who have hiked up for the day, however, come late afternoon the crowds descend back to the valley and we are usually left with only those hiking the GR10. We will overnight at the Refuge Lac d'Oô. This is a traditional refuge with dormitory accommodation. Showers are available though many choose to cool off in the lake instead.
Ascent: 1260m (4132ft) Descent: 1085m (3558ft) Distance: 17km (10.6 miles) Duration: 6h00
Our final day and it is a great one! The walk to Bagnères-de-Luchon, an ancient thermal spa town, will plunge you into a high mountain landscape where you can savour your last day on the GR10 of the French Pyrénées. We leave our lakeside mountain refuge to hike in the direction of the massive waterfall at the end of the lake which provides some great photo opportunities. We then zig zag up the trail heading for the Hourquette des Hounts a high pass sitting at an altitude of 2275m (7462ft). Descending into a wild and remote valley we then make our final climb of the trip to our second mountain pass of the day, the Col de la Coume de Bourg at 2272m (7452ft). We then traverse the mountain following a ridge line towards the top of the Superbagneres ski lift. After enjoying a cool drink at one of the cafes we will take the lift down to the town of Bagnères-de-Luchon lying over 1000 metres (3280ft) below us. A great end to a great trip and a great way to save your knees. We arrive at the tree-lined boulevard which forms the town centre with its many bars, cafes and shops. The perfect end!
Ascent: 1180m (3870ft) Descent: 850m (2788ft) Distance: 14km (8.7 miles) Duration: 6h00
Tracks and Trails services end after breakfast.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.
On this trip you will spend six nights in hotels or auberges where you can expect private bedrooms with en suite facilities based on two people sharing a room. One night we will be in a mountain refuge where the accommodation is most likely in dormitories of mixed gender, though with early booking we may be able to secure twin rooms. One night at Lac d'Oredon you may be in a basic twin room, or in the larger dormitory area. We find that our guests love the accommodation on this trip for its variety and character.
Hotel Le Marbore, Gavarnie
The Hotel Le Marbore is a gem! It is like being transported back to a bygone age. Roseline and her husband are our hosts and we are assured a warm welcome.
At Hotel Le Marbore the rooms have en suite facilities and are very comfortable. There is a cosy bar area, and the food is excellent. Breakfast is a large buffet with plenty to sustain us for the day ahead. The hotel is in the centre of the village and a short walk from views of the famous Cirque de Gavarnie.
Hotel Les Templiers, Luz-Saint-Sauveur
A traditional hotel rich in history with easy access to historic village centre. Very much a combination of old-fashioned character, and modern comfort.
The Hotel Les Templiers is a typical Pyrenean establishment in that it has retained its past while offering comfortable bedrooms. There is a magnificient carved wooden stairecase leading to the bedrooms which dates back to 1831. Bedrooms have either views to the mountains, or to the historic monument of the local church known as The Templars. This 3* hotel has an organic cafe/bar seving a range of organic and natural wines, beers, and sodas.
Hotel Montagne Fleurie, Barèges
A family run hotel in the village centre of Barèges. The hotel, which is in a fully restored 18th century building, is now run by the fifth generation.
The Hotel Montagne Fleurie is a family story that dates back for over 100 years. The bedrooms feature traditional and simple wooden furniture in keeping with the character of the building. The family run business features a trained pastry chef, the daughter of the current owner, and the son-in-law is the chef - cannot get much more family run than that.
Chalet Hotel Lac d'Orédon, Lac d'Orédon
After a stunning walk past numerous lakes we arrive at our lakeside accommodation at Lac d'Orédon where Christelle, the manager, will be waiting to welcome us.
This basic hotel is run by the local community to provide accommodation for hikers. It is spotlessly clean and with early booking we secure bedrooms rather than dormitory accommodation. The meals are plentiful and there is a good breakfast. Hot showers are appreciated. There are beautiful views from the terrace where an evening aperitif can by enjoyed.
Hotel Mir, Saint Lary
The Hotel Mir is a lovely place to spend the night. Tucked away just off the bustling main street the garden area, terrace and hotel provide a tranquil spot to enjoy the evening.
The hotel is named after alpine skier, Isabelle Mir who took two silver medals at the Olympic Games in 1968. She also claimed two world championships in 1968 and 1970. The legacy lives on with the hotel featuring many black and white photos of Isabelle racing. The hotel is run by the third generation of the Mir family.
Auberge de Germ, Germ
We adore this traditional Auberge in the tiny quaint village of Germ. It is run by Christophe and his partner Celine and the food is quite simply fantastic.
The Auberge de Germ has a lovely terrace to enjoy the evening sun it could not be better. The decor is characterful and tasteful, and the rooms cosy and comfortable. Rooms have en suite facilities and they have a very good wine selection.
Refuge Lac d'Oô, Lac d'Oô
Tonight we are in the Refuge Lac d'Oô which is run by Serge Duplan and his family. The Refuge is by a stunning lake with a waterfall as the backdrop.
The Refuge Lac d'Oô offers basic dormitory style rooms, but there are some small twin bedrooms available that are very simple with wooden floors, no curtains and basic iron bed frames with a mattress. If you book early enough we aim to secure the bedrooms rather than dorms. There is one shower with plenty of hot water. Often we don't even bother with a shower and simply swim in the lake! The lake is a famous beauty spot and many people make the hike just to have a beer or wine on the terrace. Dinner is good with three courses, and all home made, and breakfast is very 'French' in other words bread and jam, and coffee.
Hotel Alti, Bagnères-de-Luchon
Our hotel is situated on the main street of this ancient spa town and ideally place for strolling along the boulevard and enjoying the sights.
The Hotel Alti has clean and comfortable rooms which are all with en suite facilities and there is also a small swimming pool. We will eat dinner out tonight as it is lovely to experience the side-walk cafe culture of this traditional Pyrenean town.
The town has hosted many stages of the Tour de France cycle race and cyclists tearing along the main street after tackling one of the major cols are a regular sight. The breakfast buffet is plentiful, and the hotel is well place for onward travel.
Trip Information
Arrival We meet our private taxi transfer at 1600hrs in Lourdes. We have chosen Lourdes as our meeting point as guests regularly visit this famous city before travelling to Gavarnie. It is easily reached from Toulouse. You can, of course, choose to make your own way direct to Gavarnie.
Train To reach Lourdes, we encourage you to consider train travel from the UK or elsewhere in Europe. An excellent source of information is Rome2Rio.
Air The nearest French airport is Lourdes or consider Toulouse, which then has regular connections to Lourdes. If you are travelling from the north of the UK to Toulouse you could fly via Dublin, Ireland, rather than via London. If choosing Toulouse - take a Navette (shuttle bus) to the main railway station Toulouse-Matabiau. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes, and takes 25 minutes. On arrival at Toulouse airport follow the signs to 'Transport' and on exciting from 'Hall C' you will find the Navette on the right and the tram, which also runs regularly through the day, on the left. There are regular trains throughout the day from Toulouse-Matabiau to Lourdes. You might also like to consider spending a night in Lourdes before your trip. Full details of both bus and train times can be found and booked here.
Departure
You will depart from the town of Bagnères-de-Luchon, France. It is possible to take a bus from Bagnères-de-Luchon to the train station at Montrejeau which has direct train links to Toulouse-Matabiau where you can then take the Navette (shuttle bus) to Toulouse airport or continue your travel elsewhere. The bus stop in Bagnères-de-Luchon is from the Place Marechal de Richelieu which is just behind the main street. Otherwise you can walk for 10 minutes down to the 'Gare', the old railway station, where the bus also stops. We have also known guests to depart from Bagnères-de-Luchon on the evening of the final hiking day of the trip to allow them to overnight at the airport in Toulouse for an early morning flight.
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and accommodation you will be staying in. If you have any questions with regards to what to bring, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Drinking Water - on this trip we stay in a number of mountain huts where the only safe source of drinking water is to buy bottled water. As well as being environmentally unsustainable this can also be very expensive. For this reason you may wish to consider a water filtration system. We avoid recommending any specific product and ask that you do your own research into the safest and most efficient system.
Equipment
- Walking boots - comfortable, with a good tread on the sole. Ideally they should also be waterproof. We have no objection to ‘low cut mountain walking shoes’ if they have a stiff sole for rough terrain. Be aware that early season snow can remain on the high passes and boots may be necessary!
- Walking Poles – optional, but highly recommended
- Rucksack – 30-35 litres in size. We suggest it has a chest and waist strap and you try using it loaded before your trip
- Rucksack liner or cover - to keep the contents of your rucksack dry.
- Water container - 1 to 1.5 litres, or hydration system
- Short gaiters – useful, but not essential
- Umbrella - useful for shade on very hot days/rain showers
- Emergency foil blanket
Clothing
- Waterproof jacket - this MUST be waterproof. We can encounter heavy rain in the mountains and you need to be able to stay dry and warm
- Waterproof over trousers - we consider these vital items for the reason given above. We reserve the right to ask you to purchase waterproof trousers if we deem them necessary, or to ask you to miss a day of the trip if you are not properly equipped for the weather
- Trousers - comfortable walking trousers that allow free movement
- Shorts/skort
- Sun hat
- Warm hat
- Gloves x 2 - one thick, one thin
- Base layer e.g. t-shirt, thermal tops
- Fleece jacket/shirt
- Socks - technical walking socks 2/3 pairs
- Duvet jacket/second warm jacket
- Thermal leggings - optional
Items for the two nights in mountain refuges
- Sheet sleeping bag liner - a lightweight ‘silk or cotton liner’ which can be used under the blankets or duvet provided by the refuge. You do not require a ‘sleeping BAG’
- Pack towel
- Ear plugs - optional, but advised
- Head torch - plus batteries
- Teabags – optional, as tea is expensive in the refuges, whereas ordering hot water is less expensive
Comfort
- Sunscreen
- Lip salve
- Sunglasses - eye protection is essential
- Tissues - we recommend a few biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
- Antibacterial hand wash - small bottle
- Toiletries - lightweight mini-bottles/packets, including soap/shower gel
- Swimwear - optional. We sometimes swim in the lakes
- Clothing for evenings in your hotels/mountain huts
- Lightweight footwear - slippers are provided in most mountain refuges, but not in hotels. We advise bringing lightweight sandals or ‘flip flops’ for the evenings
- Supplementary snack bars/chocolate/trail mix - recommended especially for those with gluten free and coeliac diets
- Book/Kindle/Music
Documentation
- Passport, plus a paper copy
- Mountain Rescue Insurance
- Credit Card
- Cash - Euros
- Waterproof bag for documents
- GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Personal First Aid
- Personal medication - if required
- Antiseptic cream/spray
- Painkillers/anti-inflammatory
- Glucose tablets
- 2 x Rehydration sachets – like Dioralyte
- A few throat lozenges
- Blister plasters
- A selection of normal plasters
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and will carry their own first aid kit
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. A single room may be available for 7 out of the 8 nights of this trip. This trip has a single supplement of £355 in 2027.
Tracks and Trails go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Your guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. Your hiking guide will be a qualified International Mountain Leader. IML's are not only qualified to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culture and traditions. You can learn more about our guides on the About Us page.
On this point-to-point trip you will have luggage support on all but one of the nights, which means your bags are transferred each day to the next accommodation and you only need to carry a small/medium sized 'rucksack' for items you might need during the course of the day. Please refer to the kit list for this trip for guidance on the size of rucksack required. On the night you are in the mountain hut at Refuge Lac d'Oô you will need to carry a few extra items in your rucksack.
As your luggage will be moved along the route by taxi we ask that you keep the weight to a maximum of 15kgs (33lbs), and ONE bag per person. Many of the taxi companies who move your bags impose a 15kg (33lbs) limit and restrict the number of bags simply because they have to unload and reload the vehicle many times each day. If you take more than one bag you may be asked to pay a supplement. Also with regard to weight be aware that you may have to carry your luggage to your bedroom, which may involve climbing several flights of stairs as not all hotels have elevators. Luggage on wheels is generally a good idea.
If you need to leave luggage at Toulouse, which is likely to be your arrival point if flying, there are options to leave luggage in the city using the service of Nanny Bag.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Your leader will carry the correct maps and you are not expected to navigate, but if you would like to have maps of the itinerary you will find that those listed below cover the route:
IGN 1647 OT: Vignemale 1:25,000
IGN 1748 OT: Gavarnie 1:25,000
IGN 1748 ET: Néouvielle 1:25,000
IGN 1848 OT: Bagnères-de-Luchon 1:25,000
Summer mountain weather in the European Alps can vary considerably, and in this respect it is no different to any mountain environment where the terrain influences the weather and it can change from valley to valley. In the summer it is generally good, but it can be everything from glorious sunshine, to rain, fog, high winds and even snow. Temperatures can reach over 30°Celsius (86°F) in July and August, but drop to 5°Celsius (41°F) on the high passes, or 'Cols' as they are known in the Alps. Essentially, as with all mountain journeys, you should be prepared for any eventuality. The average temperatures range from 15-25°Celsius (59-77°F) in the valleys and 5-15°Celsius (41-59°F) on the passes. Even in mid-summer we can be faced with overnight snow.
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
It is useful to arrive at your destination with some cash in the local currency which in this case is Euros. However, there are ATM's at various points along this journey namely Cauterets, Gavarnie, St Lary, Loudenvielle, and Bagnères-de-Luchon. Before arriving at Cauterets you will probably have passed through Toulouse, and Lourdes which have many ATM's.
On many of our trips we will visit remote cafes/farms where it is wonderful to enjoy a drink and a cake, at places such as these they will only accept payment in the local currency in cash.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here. We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel - the following are aimed at those who hike in summer, and continue to do so in winter on snowshoes:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
Lunches are not included in your trip fee, allowing you to choose the trail food you enjoy while helping to reduce food waste. Lunches are generally picnic-style, with a packed lunch, snacks and drinks to keep you going throughout the day. Your guide/instructor will advise you where to buy supplies locally or help you order a picnic from your accommodation. Occasionally, there may also be an opportunity to stop at a café or restaurant along the trail. Please pay for any lunches or drinks ordered from your accommodation the evening before, to avoid delays in the morning.
