Pass'Aran Loop Trek
65 km · +5,000 m · 5 days · Hiking · Moderate
Best: June–September
Five days circling the border between the Val d'Aran and the French Ariège — 65 km and 5,000 metres of climbing through some of the wildest terrain in the central Pyrenees. The loop starts at the Amics de Montgarri refuge on the Spanish side and heads north into France, sleeping each night in a different refuge or gîte: Estagnous at 2,246 metres beneath the mythical Mont Valier, the Maison du Valier in its granite amphitheatre, the Gîte d'Eylie in a secret valley on the GR10, and the Refuge de l'Étang d'Araing at the edge of the high country — before crossing back into Spain over high plateaus that can still hold snow in early season. The route follows paths once used by shepherds, miners, and smugglers, climbing over passes above 2,400 metres with optional summit detours to the Crabère, Mont Valier, Barlonguère, and Mauberme. Lakes punctuate every stage. The refuges serve half-board in dorms. The Pass'Aran can also be done as a 3-day trail running adventure for those who prefer to move fast and light.



