Advanced Traverse of the 3 Refuges: Posets-Maladeta NP

This stage starts off gently as you leave the Valle de Estós car park and follow the wide forest track into one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in the Posets–Maladeta Natural Park. The route steadily ascends through pine forests, meadows and open valleys, where the peaks of Perdiguero and Clarabides begin to appear in the distance.

Shortly after setting off, you will reach the Embalses de Estós reservoirs, which are located alongside the Estós River. As you progress deeper into the valley, the landscape opens up to reveal broad pastures dotted with streams, picturesque bridges such as the Aiguacari Bridge and charming traditional shepherd's huts such as the Santa Ana Cabin and the Cabaña del Tormo. The latter is nestled next to the Tuca Gargallosa peak (1,800 m). At the Estós–Batisielles junction, take the path on your right to enter the forested area of La Mosculuera. Shortly after kilometre 5, be sure to visit the Mirador de Gorgas de los Galantes to admire the stunning waterfall.

The final stretch follows the river upstream until the Refugio de Estós comes into view. Perched on a grassy terrace, the refuge boasts superb views and is surrounded by classic Pyrenean scenery. The wide path and moderate gradient make this an accessible and enjoyable introduction to the traverse, allowing you to settle into the rhythm of the trek. With its welcoming atmosphere and mountain backdrop, the refuge is the perfect place to spend the night before tackling the more challenging stages ahead.

From the stone refuge in the Estós Valley, this challenging route ascends to the high Puerto de Chistau Pass (2,572 m) to later descend into the secluded Gistaín Valley, where the welcoming Viadós Hut awaits. Throughout the day, views open up to the surrounding 3,000-metre peaks and wild hanging valleys.

From the Refugio de Estós, the route ascends along a clear path into the upper valley and soon gets close to the impressive Cascada de Clarabide waterfall. Steeper trails lead to port of Chistau and on to a traverse under the rocky flanks of Pico Chistau (2,794 m). Enjoy the spectacular views of Posets and the Clarabide peaks as you reach the high altitude watershed. Beyond the pass, the trail drops onto stony downhill slopes towards the Pleta de Añes Cruces.

You will pass the simple Cabane d'Anescruses, while the path eases into grassy pastures and forest, crossing streams and old shepherd terraces. Then, you will join a track above the Río Cinqueta walking towards the hut. On the way, enjoy views towards both Barranco del Milá y Barranco de Añés. A final gentle descent will bring you to the Refugio de Viadós, which is set among traditional bordas and meadows. Here, you can enjoy a hot meal and a rest before the next day