This brilliant new one walking week holiday focuses on summitting the highest peak in the Pyrenees, Pico Aneto (3404m). From our comfortable base near Luchon we start with a couple of interesting warm-up walks along the Pic de Cecire ridge, up to the picturesque Lac Vert, or ascending Mont Ne. This area in the central part of the Pyrenees is home to some of Europe's biggest peaks and wildest landscapes. Our 3-day expedition starts from Hospice de France and up to the frontier via either the Port de Venasque or the Port de la Glere. Both these stunning walks take you past small lakes and over into Spain where we overnight at the Renclusa refuge. Early the following day we attempt Pico Aneto, a reasonably straight forward walk roped and with crampons and ice axes. The following day we return to our lodge near Luchon via either the Pas de L'Escalette or a harder day summitting the Mulleres (3010m). We have a final day to relax and enjoy the environs of the Valle du Lys before returning home from an altogether delightful week of demanding walking in the steep and superbly beautiful Pyrenean mountains.
Notes: Prices and itineraries shown for trips departing in 2013 may be subject to change although we will endeavour to keep any price increases for 2013 trips to a minimum. 2013 prices will be confirmed in October 2012.
Day 1: Arrive Toulouse, drive Vallee du Lys
Arriving in Toulouse, KE group package services begin with a single timed transfer to the group accommodation in the Vallee du Lys above Luchon. Our base for the week is an old stone barn converted to modern chalet accommodation, with a comfortable lounge, bar, and dining room. The guide will give a briefing on the days ahead and answer any questions. Included meals = Dinner (D)
Day 2: Warm-up hike with optional ascent of Mont Ne
This morning we have a short transfer to the Vallee d'Oueil where we start with a steep climb through the forest to Port de Pierrefite. An optional ascent up Mont Ne (2147m) gives superb views of Pico Aneto before we continue onto the lake for a quick swim and lunch. Proceeding upwards we cross the col and take in Pic du Lion (2102m) before traversing around and back to Bourg d'Oueil. (B,L,D)
Day 3: Circuit hike to Pic de Bacanere
Several walking routes are available for our second day of hiking. If the weather is fine we will enjoy a pretty walk starting through the forest at Artigue and onto the Serrat de Crespes ridge. From here we continue to Pic de Bacanere (2193m) for some fine views before returning back to the village and the accommodation in the Vallee de Lys. (B,L,D)
Day 4: Trek to Refuge Renclusa
The start of our 2 night expedition we beginning by transferring to the Hospice de France and traversing around to the mighty Cirque de la Glere and climbing over the Port de la Glere (2367m). Descending into Spain walk down to Rio Esera before the last push up to the Renclusa mountain refuge for the night.
Day 5: Ascent of Pico Aneto
A predawn start takes us up a good path and then boulder hopping whilst the sun rises over the Diente de la Maladeta and the views expand out over the Pyrenean range and plains of France. Crossing the Portillones we can see the summit and gear up for the glacier crossing. Before lunch we climb the final steep section to summit Pico Aneto (3404m). We descend back to the refuge for approx 4pm. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Option to ascend Pic de Mulleres then return to La Feniere
Depending on weather conditions we can opt for another tough day today by continuing east and ascending Pic de Mulleres (3010m). Alternatively we may cross the Spanish/French border at the exciting Port de Venasque. We drop back down to the Hospice de France and from there, return to our chalet base and a well earned drink. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Free day at La Feniere
A well-earned rest day at the beautiful chalet La Feniere. There are several options. You could go for a short local walk, visit the small town of Luchon with its cafes and restaurants, or just stay at the chalet and relax with a drink in the garden. Meals other than breakfast are not included in the trip price for this day and the group can enjoy a celebratory dinner in one of Luchon’s excellent restaurants. (B)
Day 8: Transfer to Toulouse Airport
After breakfast we have a group transfer to Toulouse Airport where KE group package services end. (B)