Let’s venture into the heart of the Pyrenees for a week of hiking. Over seven days, we’ll explore the finest trails of Valle de Benasque and Vall de Aran, immersing ourselves in this pristine landscape.
Summary of daily hikes/activities:
- Sunday, June 8: Transfer to Benasque / Hike to the Waterfalls of Cerler (easy, 6km, 250m+)
- Monday, June 9: Hike Ibón de Escarpinosa (medium, 14km, 500m+)
- Tuesday, June 10: Hike Forau d’Aigualluts (medium, 12km, 400m+)
- Wednesday, June 11: Hike Valle de Remuñe (medium, 9km, 600m+)
- Thursday, June 12: Transfer to Vielha / Hike to Santuario de Montgarri (medium, 10km, 250m+)
- Friday, June 13: Hike to Estany del Mar (medium/hard, 13.7km, 700m+)
- Saturday, June 14: Hike Cirque de Colomers (medium/hard, 14.6km, 600m+)
- Sunday, June 15: Transfer back to Valencia
From June 8 to 12, we will be staying at Hotel San Antón, a cozy, family-run hotel located in Benasque. Then, from June 12 to 15, we will transfer to Hotel SNÖ Beret, a charming mountain retreat in Vielha. Both hotels provide comfortable accommodations and are ideally situated for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Pyrenees.
↓ Scroll down to the pricing section ↓
The Waterfalls of Cerler
The Three Waterfalls of Cerler hike is a scenic circular route near the village of Cerler, in the Benasque Valley of the Pyrenees. This moderate trail takes hikers through lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky paths, offering stunning views of three picturesque waterfalls: Cascada de Ardonés, Cascada del Clotet, and Cascada de la Mascarada. The route, which spans approximately 6 kilometers with gentle elevation gain, is well-marked and suitable for most hikers. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, especially in spring and early summer when the waterfalls are at their fullest due to snowmelt.
Ibón de Escarpinosa
The hike to Ibón de Escarpinosa is a breathtaking route in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, starting from the popular trailhead at parking de Estós. This moderate trek, covering around 14 kilometers round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 600 meters, takes hikers through dense forests, alpine meadows, and past the stunning Ibón de Batisielles before reaching the crystal-clear Ibón de Escarpinosa, a small glacial lake surrounded by rugged peaks and waterfalls. The final approach to the lake is a bit steeper but rewards hikers with a spectacular panorama of the Pico de Perramó and the Agujas de Batisielles, making it one of the most picturesque hikes in the Benasque Valley.
Forau d’Aigualluts
The hike to Forau d’Aigualluts via the Refugio de la Besurta is a short yet breathtaking route in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, offering stunning views of the Aneto Glacier and surrounding peaks. Starting from La Besurta, a well-known trailhead accessible by shuttle from Hospital de Benasque, the hike follows a well-marked path through alpine meadows, with a gentle ascent towards the Forau d’Aigualluts, a massive glacial sinkhole where the waters of the Aneto mysteriously disappear underground, re-emerging on the French side of the Pyrenees. The Refugio de la Besurta, located at 1,900 meters, serves as a perfect stopping point along the way, providing a place to rest and enjoy the high-mountain landscape.
Valle de Remuñe
The hike to Valle de Remuñe is a spectacular journey into one of the most rugged and less-traveled valleys of the Benasque Valley, located near the French border in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park. This moderately challenging trail, covering around 10 kilometers round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 700 meters, follows the Remuñe River through lush pine forests, past dramatic granite formations, and into a high-altitude glacial cirque. As the path ascends, hikers encounter crystal-clear pools, cascading waterfalls, and striking views of jagged peaks, including the Pico de Remuñe and Malpaset de Literola. The valley’s wild, untouched beauty and its peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect choice for those seeking solitude and alpine scenery away from the more crowded routes of Benasque.
Santuario de Montgarri
The hike to the Santuario de Montgarri is a scenic and relatively easy route in Val d’Aran, following the Noguera Pallaresa River through lush meadows and dense forests. Starting from Pla de Beret, the well-marked trail gradually descends towards the Santuario de Montgarri, a historic 12th-century stone sanctuary set in a peaceful high-mountain valley. Along the way, hikers enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Pyrenean peaks and may spot wildlife such as marmots and eagles. The round-trip hike is approximately 12 km with gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for all levels. The Montgarri Refuge, located next to the sanctuary, offers a cozy place to rest and enjoy traditional Aranese cuisine before heading back.
Estany del Mar
The hike to Estany del Mar is a breathtaking high-altitude trek in Val d’Aran, leading to a stunning glacial lake surrounded by rugged peaks. The trail begins at Parking Pont Ressec and follows a demanding but rewarding path through forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain before reaching the pristine Estany del Mar, nestled at over 2,200 meters. Along the way, hikers are treated to spectacular views of the Montardo massif and the shimmering waters of other smaller lakes. The route covers around 14 km round trip, with significant elevation gain, making it best suited for experienced hikers. The serene, remote setting of Estany del Mar makes it a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the wild beauty of the Pyrenees.
Circ de Colomèrs
The hike to Circ de Colomèrs is one of the most spectacular routes in Val d’Aran, taking hikers through a breathtaking glacial cirque dotted with numerous high-altitude lakes. Starting from Banhs de Tredòs, the trail ascends through pine forests and rocky terrain before reaching the Refugi de Colomèrs, a great resting point before exploring the stunning lakes circuit. The classic loop passes by several shimmering mountain lakes, including Estanh Major de Colomèrs, with dramatic Pyrenean peaks reflecting in the water. The hike offers different route options, with the shorter circuit covering around 7 km and the longer version extending to 10-12 km, with moderate elevation gain. This hike perfectly showcases the alpine beauty of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, making it a must-do for nature lovers and photographers.
Accommodation
Hotel San Antón, located in Benasque, is a cozy, family-run establishment that offers a comfortable stay for mountain enthusiasts. Just 50 meters from the town center, it provides easy access to the Cerler ski resort and the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park. Guests can choose between rooms with balconies or attic-style accommodations, all equipped with a safe, hairdryer, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel’s restaurant, El Rincón del Foc, serves traditional dishes made with local ingredients. Additionally, the hotel is pet-friendly and offers services for cyclists, including bike storage and a cleaning area. With its privileged location and range of amenities, it is an ideal choice for skiers, hikers, and nature lovers.
Hotel SNÖ Beret, located in the tranquil area of Betrén, is a charming mountain retreat just a five-minute walk from Vielha’s centre and 14 kilometres from the Baqueira-Beret ski resort. The hotel showcases traditional mountain architecture, featuring stone accents and a gabled slate roof, with cosy rooms and duplexes nestled under attic eaves. Guests can unwind in the indoor heated pool after a day of skiing or hiking, and enjoy a variety of amenities including a café, free Wi-Fi, and bike-friendly facilities. The hotel’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for winter sports enthusiasts and summer adventurers alike, offering easy access to skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and cycling opportunities in the stunning Arán Valley.
Sign Up
The price of the trip is €925 per person (€875 signing up before May 8). 175 euros paid in advance to reserve the spot, balance due by May 24. The price is for a person sharing a twin room. You can reserve a single room for additional 300 euros.
Members get a 25 euro discount.
Free cancellation until May 24.
The price includes transportation, seven nights of accommodation with breakfast, insurance and a professional guide.