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High level, Hut to Hut Expedition in the Eastern PyreneesA moderately challenging 6-day trek staying in mountain refuges |
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Comfortable daily distances with optional Peaks. |
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OVERVIEWThe Pyrenean mountains near Andorra are some of the wildest in France. This expedition takes us into the heart of the mountains, inaccessible to day trips. This trip is about about immersing ourselves in the rugged peaks, knife-edge ridges and colourful lakes - an unforgettable expedition.The week involves backpacking between the excellent mountain refuges, located high in the alpine meadows, where izzards and marmots abound. Making the most of this vantage point, we have the option of taking on the surrounding peaks and ridges without too much effort. This area is one of France's best kept secrets, they are sometimes referred to as the 'mountains of the sun'. Our high point is the Pic De Carlit (2920m), which commands excellent views down towards the Mediterranean. We are led by James Thompson a qualified International Mountain Leader (IML) who has made his home in the valley. He and is passionate about the region, its wildlife, forests and peaks. He has over 6 years of experience of leading trips in the Pyrenees and around the World. IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?This is a fairly energetic expedition trip aimed at walkers who enjoy the atmosphere of Mountain Refuges. The distance between the Refuges is generally fairly short, with optional peaks which can be undertaken without the burden of a heavy bag. We tend to stick to paths between the refuges, but the optional peaks will involve some easy scrambling and sections of exposure. Every day there will be between 500 and 1500m of ascent. You are expected to carry your own gear and some group food. It is important to us that people book the correct trip. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have have any doubts.DATESSun 13 July - Sun 20th July 2008 (trip code TFC H28) HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?Trip price is £515. Flights can be picked up very cheaply if booked in advance. Allow about £30 for drinks and the meals not included (outlined below). There are no other local payments or hidden costs. Please note that we offer a 5% discount if you book more than 3 months before the departure date. We also offer group and loyalty discounts. More Info >>WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?6 days guided walks with a Qualified Mountain Leader. Airport Transfers (specified times only). 3 nights in Gite D'Etapes. 4 nights in mountain refuges, 6 evening meals, 7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches.WHERE DO WE STAYWe spend 3 nights in Gite D'Etapes which offer a warm friendly atmosphere and traditional food. There are hot showers, and accommodation is normally in rooms with up to 4 other people. 4 nights are spent in fantastic Mountain Refuges with basic washing facilities and dormitory style accommodation. The locations, food and atmosphere make up for all of the discomfort. Please do not book this trip if the idea of staying in a refuge does not appeal to you!FOODThe main meal of the day will be taken in the Gites or Refuges where we will be fed good food in vast quantities. Most dishes served are traditional to the region which has a large Catalan influence. Refuge breakfasts are well know for being unsubstantial, so you will be asked to carry extra rations to supplement the diet. Refuge lunches suffer from being indigestible, so you will be supplied with a substantial goody bag in Orlu which will be restocked in Porté Puymorens. Dinner on the first day is not included due to the differing arrival times of the group members. Vegetarians an are welcome but can expect a fairly bland diet.GUIDING AND INSTRUCTION You be accompanied by James Thompson, a qualified Mountain Leader and member of BAIML (British Association of International Mountain Leaders). James has 5 years of experience in leading safe and enjoyable trips around the world. He is passionate about the area and throughout the week will offer informal lectures about the mountains, nature and local history. James will carry all the equipment necessary to safeguard the group.
There is a maximum of 8 people (minimum 2) plus James on this holiday.
Bookings from single people are welcome as activity holidays are a
great way to make new friends.
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| HOLIDAY ITINERARY | |
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NOTES |
This itinerary is our intended route. However in diverse weather conditions, it may not be possible to take in all the peaks mentioned. Please understand that this is for your own safety and enjoyment. |
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DAY 1 |
Transfer 1hr 30 mins from Toulouse airport to our start point in the pretty village of Orlu, just outside Ax-les-Thermes. We stay in the comfortable Gite D'Etape, where over a few beers James will brief you on all aspects of the expedition. Dinner tonight is not included due to the late arrival of the flights. |
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DAY 2 |
We start or journey at the Forges D'Orlu (900m), where there is a museum which gives us an interesting introduction to the wildlife of the area. From here we climb steeply through forests up to the impressive Etang de Naguille. Next we take on the Couillade d'en Beys (2345m) where we are rewarded with some much needed down hill to our overnight stop at the Refuge d'en Beys (1970m). Today there is a lot of ascent (1450m) however it is over a short distance so will be taken at a very leisurely pace. |
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DAY 3 |
Today we follow the GR7 (Tour des Montagnes d'Ax) towards the Refuge des Bésines (2104m). Isards and Marmots are not uncommon sightings today as we traverse this inhospitable mountain landscape. We should be at the Refuge by lunch time, giving you the opportunity to relax or scramble up to the summit of the Pic D'Auriol (2695m) with a lighter bag. |
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DAY 4 |
Our route south is barred by the imposing Puig De Coma D'Or (2826m), which begs us to climb it. From here those with a good head for heights can scramble to to the Puig Pedros (2842m) with a light weight bag, while the rest enjoy the view...vultures are not uncommon sightings up here! The afternoon is mostly down hill as we traverse the side of a stunning glaciated valley towards the village of Porté-Puymorens (1608m). Here we stay in the relative comfort of the Gite D'Etape. There is also a small shop where we can restock with 'trekkers luxuries' |
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DAY 5 |
An early start today, as we take on the mighty Puig Carlit (2921m). We start climbing through the beautiful forests towards the vast Etang de Lanòs. Here we join the H.R.P (High Route of the Pyrenees) which takes us almost straight up to the impressive pointy summit. To the East, nothing blocks our view over the Cathar country and towards the sun baked Mediterranean. The decent is on a well trodden path past a couple of lakes down towards our Refuge by the side of the Lac Des Bouillouses (2020m). This a long but very rewarding 18km day with over 1300m of Ascent. |
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DAY 6 |
We have a well deserved leisurely start around the Lac des Bouillouses and over the 'desert' towards the Refuge de Camporelles (2240). The view from the lakes here is regarded by many as the most beautiful in the Pyrénées-Orientales. We will arrive well in time for lunch so can enjoy the surroundings to the full. For most, relaxing is not an option as the Pic Peric (2810m), just in front of the refuge, is just begging to be mounted. |
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DAY 7 |
Our final day in the hill in not going to be a disappointment. There are several interesting peaks which we could take on, depending on how we feel. We cross back into Ariège and the Nature Reserve of Orlu, where we join the GR7 which takes us back to the Gite D'Etape for a celebratory beer or too! |
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DAY 8 |
Time to leave. After breakfast we transfer to Toulouse airport. Full of the memories of an excellent week in the hills. |
