Intermediate Trekking Aneto Salvaguardia

This section starts from the free parking area at Llanos del Hospital. A comfortable path follows the river and gains height gradually without technical difficulties, while the landscape shifts from forested valley to high mountain scenery of granite and ice. Little by little the views open towards the surrounding peaks and the distant glaciers of Maladeta and Aneto that rise above the head of the valley.

From the buildings of Llanos del Hospital the route follows wide tracks beside the Río Ésera, then narrows to a stonier path leading to the meadows of La Besurta, framed by steep walls and avalanche corridors. Beyond Besurta the slope becomes steeper and the path zigzags through grass and boulders toward Plan de la Renclusa. Shortly before reaching the hut a waterfall on the right invites a pause to admire the cirque of surrounding peaks.

After a short traverse over slabs and blocks we arrive at the Renclusa Refuge at about 2140 m, perched on a small shoulder above the valley. The building appears suddenly, sheltered by ridges yet open to a wide panorama of peaks and glaciers. Inside, dormitories and a welcoming dining room provide a comfortable place to rest, and nearby viewpoints allow one last look over the valley before night in the high mountains.

From the Renclusa hut the route crosses high alpine terrain before descending into the green heart of the Aran Valley. After an initial ascent to a gentle col the path rolls across grassy plateaus and then drops toward the famous plains and waterfalls of Aiguallut. Beyond this balcony the landscape becomes wilder again as we aim for Coll de Toro, before a long descent leads to forests and meadows surrounding Artiga de Lin.

Leaving the refuge at about 2140 m we climb on a clear path toward Cuello Ancho, then descend gently to Plan Alto d Aiguallut. Here a short detour allows us to admire the waterfall and the deep Forau, where the waters disappear underground. Crossing the plain we follow waymarks toward Coll de Toro, on a less defined but still visible track, and as we climb the valley opens in every direction.

Reaching Coll de Toro we enter the Aran side and soon arrive at Lake Toro, an inviting place to rest and eat beside the shore. Skirting the left bank on a rocky trail we begin a demanding descent that is steep at first, then gradually softens as it approaches the valley floor. The path finally reaches the flat meadow of Artiga de Lin and the refuge at about 1365 m, welcoming us to the valley.