Pyrenees Peaks & Passes Guided Walking Holiday

From Zaragoza, we’ll transfer you to the delightful Hotel Sabocos, our base in Panticosa. Nestled high in the Valle de Tena, this will be your ‘home from home’ during your stay. After a quick check-in, you can settle into your room before the evening welcome briefing and dinner in the restaurant. 

Route statistics: 12.5km, 900m ascent/descent

The week’s walking begins with a fabulous first day on the French side of the dramatic frontier ridge. From the idyllic Pombie lake and refugio, this walk offers stunning views of the south-east face of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau. Known as the Pombie Wall, this is a favourite spot for climbers. The scenery changes frequently on today’s route, culminating with panoramic views of the Pyrenees National Park from the summit of Pic de Peyreget. 

Route statistics: 20km, 800m ascent/descent

This walk does not officially include a peak, but it’s nevertheless a true Pyrenean high-level classic. Starting with an intense ascent to a breathtaking mirador (lookout) high above the canyon floor, the route continues along a natural balcony (faja) which has been formed by millions of years of erosion.

Route statistics: 17.5km, 900m ascent/descent

Today’s route is an excellent circular walk to the picturesque Ibones de Anayet, nestled below the deep crimson slopes of the Vértice de Anayet. Walkers at these idyllic lakes are treated to awe-inspiring views across the abyss-like ‘Canal Roya’ and the frontier ridge towards Pic du Midi d’Ossau in France. From here the straightforward but steep ascent of the Vertice de Anayet (2559m) provides rewarding panoramic views across the range – including sublime views of Balaitous (3144m), Vignemale (3298m) and the Picos del Infierno (3083m).

On your rest day, indulge in a well-deserved lie-in (breakfast is served until 10am!) before spending the day relaxing in Panticosa. There are no guided walks. Dinner is not provided and guests have an opportunity to eat out locally. Your guide will be happy to propose a local restaurant and make a booking on your behalf, if invited to do so. 

Route statistics: 15km, 800m ascent/descent

This walk is described by the French as “The Way of the Bear”, since it is said to have been the main passage of bears between the Aspe and Ossau regions. A demanding walk, this route rewards with superb far-reaching views. The Ayous Lakes circuit is a classic ‘must do’ Pyrenean walk, that takes in numerous lakes and offers up first-rate views across to the iconic Pic Du Midi d’Óssau and Pic Casterau.

On your final day of walking, choose from two enticing options:

Garmo Negro: 16km, 1400m ascent/descent – This is probably the most accessible of all the 3000m peaks close to Panticosa. From the summit, the full expanse of the Pyrenees range opens up to you – with incredible views of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau over in France, and the Infiernos and Vignemale further east.

Cuello Alto del Brazato: 11km, 900m ascent/descent – This alternative allows for a less strenuous day than Garmo Negro, without compromising on the views. Walkers on this route will gain height relatively quickly on a well graded path, then have a short but steep ascent which is loose underfoot, and a tricky traverse across a small boulder field. From here a fantastic panorama of views includes the impressive Vignemale – the highest peak in the French Pyrenees.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and time to pack. Our transfers are designed to get you to the airport in good time for the return Ryanair flight to London Stansted which departs at 1540. We also offer an earlier transfer which drops off at the rail station at 1145.