SPAIN/FRANCE/ANDORRA
Pyrenean Haute Route
Pyrenees Packing List
Because the Pyrenees have wildly ranging, unpredictable weather, I am “packing my fears” this go around.
Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
A synching up of the stars allowed for a visit with new friends before my big challenge in one of Europe’s most magical cities.
HRP: Section One
The HRP starts at the sea and takes in the extremely steep but verdant ‘hills’ of the Basque Country.
HRP: Section One continues
The highlight of the first section is climbing Pic d’Orhy with the sunrise and above the clouds.
HRP: Section Two
The route enters the stunning Parc national des Pyrénées where the mountains get seriously high.
HRP: Section Two continues
I meet some challenges with rocky passes and snowfields then camp in one of the most stunning places imaginable.
HRP: Section Three
The Central Pyrenees begin easy and lovely, but lead to a point of decision to walk very hard (and dangerous) terrain.
HRP: Section Three continues
There are three “E” (exceptional) sections on the HRP and I got through these dangerous bits blissfully – with a little help from my friends.
HRP: Section Four
The section begins with one of the most unexpectedly challenging – and dangerous – bits, followed by lakes and waterfalls.
HRP: Section Four continues
The route enters the tiny, landlocked and mountainous country of Andorra with its beautiful vistas and generous people who help me out of a jam.
HRP: Section Five
I climb the highest peak in the Eastern Pyrenees plus a spectacular ridge walk, before being done in by a quiche and leaving trail (temporarily!)
pausing
I only have a small bit of the Pyrenean Haute Route to finish, but it will have to happen another time.
