Hard Carros de Foc

This stage is one long climb, gaining 1,030 m from the start to the hut with no meaningful descent. The first section follows an asphalted road before the route continues onto forest paths. If you want to make the start a little easier, you can shorten the first kilometres by taking a taxi. The first part feels controlled and steady, with easier ground through the forest and a gradual rise that lets you find your rhythm. The highest point is reached near 2,340 m, so treat this as a demanding climb rather than a warm-up. The character of the route changes clearly as you go higher.

After the asphalted start, you continue on relatively easy forest paths, gaining height without much technical difficulty underfoot. After about 4.8 km, the trail changes to boardwalks and bridge sections, giving the route a different feel while the climb continues. At around 7.5 km, you reach the first lake. Follow the water for roughly 800 m and take your time here, especially if the surface is calm enough for reflections across the lake.

After about 8.3 km, the route bends right and the climb becomes more serious. Boardwalks return, but the terrain gradually turns rougher, rockier and more uneven, so sturdy footing matters. Around Lake Ratera, the route eases for a while, giving you space to slow down and enjoy the view. Beyond the lake, a steeper section leads past two small sister lakes before the final approach opens into broader mountain terrain.

The last stretch to the hut feels more remote, with open ground, wide views and continued rocky terrain underfoot. Arrive steadily rather than rushing the final climb, then settle in at the mountain hut after a full uphill effort.

This high mountain section links two classic refuges on a spectacular traverse of the central Pyrenees. From the rocky basin of Amitges the route threads between countless glacial lakes, crosses wild cols and skirts the foot of sharp granite peaks. Long stretches on narrow paths, sections of boulder and occasional snow patches in early season give the day a challenging and adventurous feel, rewarded throughout by wide views and crystal clear water.

From the refuge the path contours above the lakes of the Coma d’Amitges, then climbs gently across rocky slopes and grass patches toward the Cometes de Ratera. It continues on a wilder trail, undulating between slabs and small tarns to reach Estanh Obago, set in a shaded hollow beneath Pic de Ratera. A steeper ascent leads into the Coma deth Port de Caldes, where the col offers superb views over the surrounding summits and the Colomers lake basin.

The descent from the pass follows cairned paths and occasional stone steps past Lac Redon and Estanh Long de Colomers, gradually easing as the valley widens. Near the lower lakes the trail turns across rough pasture and granite outcrops toward Estany Clot. A final short climb brings you to the Ventosa i Calvell hut, perched above a large dark lake and facing Montardo, an inviting place to rest on the terrace before settling into the cosy dormitories.