This is one of the most famous hikes in the French Pyrenees, and after visiting the Cirque de Gavarnie myself, I can completely understand why.
It’s not the easiest hike, with a fair amount of ascent involved, but it isn’t technically difficult. The paths are very well marked and maintained, so all that’s really required is a reasonable level of fitness.
The walk starts in the beautiful mountain village of Gavarnie and follows the valley south until you reach a huge natural amphitheatre of towering cliffs and waterfalls. At the centre of this dramatic semi-circle stands the Grande Cascade, one of the tallest waterfalls in Europe.
At 1,312 feet (400 metres) high, the Grande Cascade is an impressive sight, and on a clear day, you can even see it from the village of Gavarnie itself.
The Cirque de Gavarnie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the French Pyrenees.
Location
Located in the Hautes-Pyrénées department of southwest France, Gavarnie lies within the Pyrenees National Park in southwest France, just a few miles (a few kilometres) from the Spanish border.
Parking
Parking in Gavarnie is straightforward. A dedicated motorhome area is located at the Holle car park, around 0.6 miles (1 km) above the village. It costs €10 for 24 hours and has drinking water and waste disposal facilities. From there, it’s a pleasant 0.6-mile (1 km), 15–20 minute walk into the centre of Gavarnie and the start of the trail.
Alternatively, you can do what we did and cycle from one of the nearby campsites. We stayed at Camping Le Pain de Sucre, which is just 2.3 miles (3.7 km) from Gavarnie. Although the ride is uphill, it’s a great way to avoid parking and enjoy the scenery.
Walk Info
Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km) return
Time: 3–5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Well-maintained gravel paths, with some rocky sections near the waterfall
Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on leads
Toilets & Refreshments: Public toilets and cafés in Gavarnie, plus refreshments available at Hôtel du Cirque
The Route
Follow the map as you walk, and you shouldn’t get lost. Make sure your location is turned on so you can see exactly where you are. Alternatively, download the GPX file and use it with your preferred route-tracking app.
Downloadable GPX File
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Leave Gavarnie
Starting in Gavarnie, head south through the village until you reach the bridge crossing the river, opposite the campsite.
2. Follow the Valley
Cross the bridge and turn right. Follow the path with the river on your right-hand side. Eventually, the trail leaves the river and heads through woodland.
3. Continue Towards Hôtel du Cirque
Stay on the main path as it climbs gradually through the valley. Soon you’ll emerge from the trees and arrive at Hôtel du Cirque, where you’ll get your first close-up views of the cirque and the Grande Cascade.
4. Continue to Grande Cascade
From here, you can either turn around or continue towards the waterfall itself. If you decide to continue, be aware that there are two river crossings without bridges, so waterproof footwear is recommended as you may get your feet wet.
Follow the path as it winds closer to the base of the Grande Cascade. Once you’ve taken in the views, retrace your steps back to Hôtel du Cirque.
5. Return Through the Valley
From the hotel, descend back down the zig-zagging path through the valley and woodland. Eventually, you’ll reach the river again where paths run on both sides.
6. Complete the Loop
This time, cross over the bridge and return to Gavarnie along the opposite side of the river, bringing you back to where you started.
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Planning more walks in the Pyrenees?
Check out some of my other hiking guides in the area: Pyrenees
