Character
A long mountain line across the French Pyrenees. Alternates between high passes, green valleys, spa towns and a well-functioning mountain infrastructure.
GR Routes
GR10 French Pyrenees Traverse
A long traverse of the French side of the Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.
Overview
GR10 is a major Pyrenean project with many stages, good valley resupply and the option to walk it in sections. Less technical than GR20 but demanding in length, elevation and changeable weather.
- Distance
- 920 km
- Time
- 45-60 days
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Total elevation gain
- 55,000 m
Route & profile
Quick orientation of the route line, start, end and elevation profile.
Elevation profileHighest 1,377 m a.s.l. · Gavarnie
Francouzské Pyreneje
920 km · 8 stages · ↑ 55,000 m
Elevation data for stage points is indicative, derived from Copernicus DEM GLO-90 after geocoding stage locations via OSM; problematic points are manually verified from map or trail sources. Verify against the specific GPX/map before your trip.
Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, displayed via Waymarked Trails.
Planning
Budget depends on the mix of refuges, gîtes and hotels in spa towns. Book central Pyrenees sections in season.
June to September. High sections are most reliable in July and August; September is quieter but days are shorter.
What to expect
Who it's for
Hikers who want a major European thru-hike but also appreciate the option to split the trek into shorter sections with civilisation in the valleys.
Suggested pace
A full traverse typically takes 45–60 days. For a first experience it makes sense to pick a 7–14-day section in the central Pyrenees.
Logistics
Hendaye and Banyuls-sur-Mer are both easily reached by train. The route allows relatively frequent descents to towns to resupply or adjust plans for weather.
Resupply & permits
Resupply
Strong resupply in Cauterets, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Gavarnie, Barèges, Luchon and Ax-les-Thermes. In central sections plan food for 2–4 days.
Permits & regulations
No general permit. Check hut and camping rules for national parks and individual municipalities.
Why go
- A grand traverse from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.
- Good infrastructure for staged sections.
- A great alternative for those who want the Pyrenees less wild than GR11.
Watch out for
- Total distance and elevation are the main challenge, not individual technical passages.
- Weather can quickly close views and safe crossings in the central Pyrenees.
- When staging, watch the transport connections and accommodation in smaller villages.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for French Pyrenees Traverse?
June to September. High sections are most reliable in July and August; September is quieter but days are shorter.
How hard is French Pyrenees Traverse?
French Pyrenees Traverse is rated as Hard. A long mountain line across the French Pyrenees. Alternates between high passes, green valleys, spa towns and a well-functioning mountain infrastructure.
How many days does French Pyrenees Traverse take?
French Pyrenees Traverse usually takes 45–60 days. A full traverse typically takes 45–60 days. For a first experience it makes sense to pick a 7–14-day section in the central Pyrenees.
Do I need a permit for French Pyrenees Traverse?
No general permit. Check hut and camping rules for national parks and individual municipalities.
What about resupply on French Pyrenees Traverse?
Strong resupply in Cauterets, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Gavarnie, Barèges, Luchon and Ax-les-Thermes. In central sections plan food for 2–4 days.
Similar treks
Community
Photos from trekkers
Real shots from the trail by people who walked it — coming soon.