The French Pyrenees High Level Snowshoe Trek

Our holiday starts with two days of introductory snowshoe hiking from a base just outside the pretty French spa town of Luchon, after which we'll drive to the head of the beautiful Benasque Valley and over to the Spanish side of the Pyrenees, where we will be based at the Nordic skiing centre of Llanos del Hospital.

From here we will take a 3-day expedition up into one of the most spectacular cirques of the Pyrenees, a snow-filled bowl below the awe-inspiring, 3000m peaks of Diente de Alba and Mulleres that offer stunning views of the highest mountain of the range, the Pico Aneto. There will be a 1000m ascent over two long and challenging (but rewarding) days, before we return to Luchon, where we will enjoy comfort and delicious cuisine in a rustic lodge, as well as having a free day to relax and take it easy or take part in another activity, possibly skiing in nearby Superbagneres.

This trip begins with an introductory session on relatively easy snow covered forest trails before heading to the high mountains. During the week we will make ascents of several 3000 metre peaks. No previous snowshoeing experience is required but previous winter walking experience and a good level of fitness are essential.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Toulouse. KE group package services begin with a single timed transfer to the accommodation near Louchon. 
Day 2: After we have been issued with our snowshoes and equipment we have an introduction to the snowshoe techniques and familiarise ourselves with safety proceedures. Our walk today takes us through the Luchonnais, before returning to the chalet.
Day 3: Today is a scenic route around the Pic d'Aubas horseshoe..
Day 4: A transfer takes us across the border into Spain to start our 2 day expedition. We drive to the Hopital del Llanos and from here snowshoe up to the Refugio Renclusa, where we overnight.
Day 5: Our goal today is the Diente de Alba (3136m). From the refuge we walk steadily with fine views of the Pyrenean range. Return to the refuge for a second night.
Day 6: Today we attempt the summit of Mulleres (3010m) on our snowshoes. After this good days walking we return to the waiting transfer vehicle at the road and return to the chalet.
Day 7: A well earned rest day at the beautiful chalet. You could go cross-country or downhill skiing, or visit the small spa town of Luchon with its cafes and restaurants, or just stay at the chalet and relax by the open fire.
Day 8: KE group package services end after breakfast and a single timed transfer to Toulouse.

NB. The following items are not included in this trip:

Travel Insurance
Visas (if applicable)
Tips
Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs, etc