Intermediate GR10 Exploration Hike

Duration: 3 days
Trails: T3 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km per day
Ascent per day: More than 1000 m ascent per day

>Follow the legendary GR10 through the French Pyrenees in 3 scenic stages
> Stay in authentic mountain huts surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows
> Includes accommodation and meals in traditional Pyrenean refuges

The Intermediate GR10 Exploration Hike is a 3-day hut-to-hut adventure designed for hikers with good fitness and a taste for mountain exploration. Starting in Cauterets and ending in Gavarnie, the route combines lush valleys, dramatic ridgelines, and unforgettable views of the Vignemale and the Ossoue Glacier. Trails are well-marked but require stamina and sure-footedness a true Pyrenean classic in a compact format.

Along the way, you’ll stay in cozy mountain refuges such as Chalet du Clot and Bayssellance, where warm hospitality and hearty meals await after each rewarding stage. The final day to Gavarnie can be more challenging depending on conditions, with an **alternative expert variant** for trekkers seeking a longer and steeper descent. Whichever route you choose, this GR10 journey captures the wild and authentic spirit of the French Pyrenees.

Itinerary

Day
1

Cauterets - Chalet du Clot

Duration: 03:05 h
Distance: 8.93 km
Ascent: 680 m
Descent: 90 m

Your GR10 adventure begins in the charming spa town of Cauterets. The trail leads you along forested paths and thundering waterfalls as you make your way deeper into the Pyrenees. Gradually, the terrain opens up to reveal alpine meadows framed by rugged peaks.

This first stage is an ideal warm-up, with around 680 meters of ascent. The climb is steady and rewarding, offering constant views and a true sense of progress. Marmots and chamois are often spotted in the higher meadows, adding a touch of wilderness to your day.

Arriving at the rustic Chalet du Clot, enjoy a hearty mountain dinner and the peaceful sound of nearby cascades before settling in for a restful night in the heart of the Pyrenees.

Chalet du Clot

Info
Chalet du Clot
Chalet du Clot
Day
2

Chalet du Clot - Refuge Bayssellance

Duration: 05:15 h
Distance: 13.2 km
Ascent: 1210 m
Descent: 110 m

After a filling mountain breakfast, you set off toward the higher reaches of the GR10. The trail climbs steadily toward the heart of the Pyrenees, where the air grows crisper and the views more dramatic. Peaks tower on all sides, and the path winds through rocky terrain and alpine scree.

This is the most challenging stage of the trek, with over 1,200 meters of ascent. Your effort is rewarded as you reach Refuge Bayssellance the highest guarded hut in the Pyrenees where the panorama over the Ossoue Glacier and Vignemale is nothing short of breathtaking.

Once at the refuge, enjoy a well-deserved dinner while sharing stories with fellow trekkers. The mountain atmosphere and starlit sky make for a memorable night above the valleys.

Refuge Bayssellance

Info
Refuge Bayssellance
Refuge Bayssellance
Day
3

Refuge Bayssellance - Gavarnie

Duration: 05:06 h
Distance: 14.9 km
Ascent: 60 m
Descent: 1320 m

Start your day with a simple but energizing mountain breakfast before beginning the long descent toward Gavarnie. The trail winds down from Bayssellance, offering unforgettable views over the Cirque de Gavarnie one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Pyrenees.

Although the descent is long, it’s a feast for the eyes. Waterfalls tumble down the cliffs, and the scenery grows ever greener as you approach the village. This stage demands care on the rocky paths but rewards every step with stunning vistas and a true sense of accomplishment.

Reaching Gavarnie feels like the perfect finale a picturesque mountain village surrounded by towering walls of rock and cascading water, marking the end of your GR10 exploration.

FAQ

  • What if the dates I want are not available?

  • If I book now, can I immediately arrange the rest of my trip?

  • How do I know if this trek is right for me?

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