MOUNTAIN waterfall lacs and water
Pyrenees, Carros de Foc hiking tour. A week long hike from hut to hut on a natural scenery with lakes, mountains and amazing flora and fauna.
Pyrenees, Carros de Foc hiking tour. A week long hike from hut to hut on a natural scenery with lakes, mountains and amazing flora and fauna.
MOUNTAIN waterfall lacs and water
A farm and field at the base of the Pyrenees Mountains
Parc Nacional Aigüestortes Travessa Carros de Foc
Aigüestortes Nacional Park Trekking Pyrenees
rocky landscape along the carros de foc hike catalonia pyrenees mountains spain europe
Alpine lake nestled in valley with snow-capped mountains under blue sky
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4-Day Carros de Foc Highlights

4 days / 3 nights

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Explore the high-altitude heart of the Catalan Pyrenees on a condensed circuit linking historic huts set amidst jagged massifs and vibrant glacial lakes.

Starting point

Espot

Finish point

Espot

Season

From July to September

Technical level

3/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Hut-to-Hut

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Highlights

  • Navigate the central massifs of Aigüestortes National Park on a four-day loop
  • Stay at a network of historic huts, including the lakeside Refugi Josep Maria Blanc
  • Cross the central Portarró d’Espot pass for panoramic views over iconic watersheds
  • Witness the granite peaks of Els Encantats reflecting in Lake Sant Maurici
  • Navigate the high Dellui pass and the challenging Pas de l’Ós ridge
  • Trace the history of the Carros de Foc trail, established by the mountain guardians in 1987

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

3 nights in (mountain) huts with half board
Digital guidebook with itinerary, route instructions, and practical information
GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app
Tour design and organization
Service and support during your hike

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Extra nights
Single supplement
Transfer from Escalo to Espot

Guided

3 nights in (mountain) huts with half-board
Professional mountain guide
Tour design and organization
Service and support during your hike

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Extra nights
Single supplement
Transfer from Escalo to Espot

What to bring to the tour

  • Hiking shoes/boots
  • 25 to 45-liter backpack
  • Base layer
  • Sports T-shirts
  • Hiking shorts
  • Hiking water-repellent pants
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Midlayer
  • Sports socks and underwear
  • Leisurewear for evenings
  • Down jacket
  • Gloves
  • Shade hat/cap
  • Warm headwear
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Headlamp
  • Hiking poles
  • ID card or passport
  • Snacks
  • Cash
  • Water bottles or hydration pack
  • Sleeping liner
  • Toiletries
  • Toilet paper
  • Small first aid kit

The 4-Day Carros de Foc Highlights is a condensed high-altitude loop through the heart of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park.

Starting and ending in the village of Espot, this trek traverses the rugged granite massifs of the Catalan Pyrenees. It captures the essence of the famous Carros de Foc circuit, focusing on the most iconic passes and shelters.

The route explores a landscape defined by water, featuring more than two hundred mountain tarns, lush forests, and towering peaks. You will witness the striking contrast between the twin granite shafts of Els Encantats and the deep blue waters of high-altitude lakes.

The journey links three unique mountain shelters, including the peaceful Refugi d'Estany Llong and the spectacularly situated Refugi Josep Maria Blanc. Accommodations are provided on a half-board basis in staffed refuges, offering a cozy bed and traditional mountain cuisine after a day of exploration.

As the journey is circular, it offers an immersive experience in the park's wilderness. However, please note that this is a self-sufficient adventure, and luggage transfer is not available on this specific trail due to the rugged and wild mountain terrain. You will need to carry your own gear between the shelters.

Our service ensures a seamless experience by handling all hut bookings and providing continuous logistical support. You will receive comprehensive GPS navigation and an in-depth travel booklet filled with stories and insights about the Carros de Foc trail. This allows you to focus on the technical demands of the high-alpine environment while we manage the organizational complexities.

This trek is designed for fit hikers seeking a focused Pyrenean experience. It is suited for those who appreciate navigating rocky paths, crossing central mountain passes like Portarró d'Espot and Dellui, and ending each day in a remote mountain shelter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hut-to-hut hiking is a form of trekking where you hike from one mountain refuge to another, staying overnight at these locations. This style allows you to explore the varied landscapes of the Pyrenees, from high mountain passes to serene valleys, without the need for carrying camping gear. The trails, such as the famous GR10 and GR11, connect different refuges and offer diverse scenic experiences.

Preparation involves physical training, familiarizing yourself with the hiking routes, and ensuring you have the right gear. Start with cardiovascular exercises and hikes to build endurance. Study the specific trails you plan to hike, as each has unique characteristics, and pack accordingly for varying weather conditions and terrains.

While some hiking experience is beneficial, the Pyrenees offer trails suitable for various skill levels. Beginners can enjoy less challenging routes with lower elevation gains, while experienced hikers can tackle more strenuous paths. But most trails in the Pyrenees require some previous experience, mostly due to large distances and elevation gains.

The Pyrenees feature a range of refuges, from basic, unmanned shelters offering minimal amenities to manned refuges with facilities like meals and hot showers. All our hikes include only staffed huts in order to provide the maximum comfort possible.

Sleeping arrangements in Pyrenees refuges vary. Some offer private rooms, while others only have shared dormitories. It's essential to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the type of accommodation you prefer.

NOTE: on the 3-day GR10 Hut-to-Hut Hike and on Carros de Foc Trail, the huts do not offer any private accommodation.

Refuge etiquette in the Pyrenees centers around respect for shared spaces and other hikers. Clean up after yourself, keep noise levels low, especially at night, and adhere to the specific rules of each refuge.

The ideal season is from late spring to early fall, typically June to September. This period offers more stable weather conditions and open refuges. However, be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially in higher altitudes.

Meals are provided in all staffed refuges, often including breakfast and dinner. Some refuges might offer packed lunches for the next day's hike. It's wise to carry snacks, especially for longer hiking segments.

All available guidance options

Private Guided Solo

Experience the great outdoors on a private guided tour tailored just for you...

Private Guided Group

Get together a group of your hiking buddies and leave the rest to us! All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy a tour built around your group’s preferences. With an experienced guide accompanying you every step of the way, you’ll get the most out of your hike without having to stress about the details.

Self-guided

Are you looking for a good adventure and limitless flexibility? Then you should try out a self-guided tour, perfect for independent explorers who want to set their own pace. Without the need to stick to a group schedule, you’re free to linger at scenic viewpoints while the logistics are taken care of in advance.

HASSLE-FREE

We handle itineraries, accommodations, and anything else you prefer not to deal with, so you can enjoy a carefree hike.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

We are a financially protected company, fully bonded and insured, keeping your money safe and allowing you to travel with confidence.

TRIED & TESTED ADVENTURES

Only the best hut to hut hikes in Europe, cherry-picked by our local team with an in-depth knowledge of the region.

UNBEATABLE SUPPORT

Our 24/7 customer support is where we show our passion, bringing you a better experience by making your well-being our number one priority.

from 395 € /person
Experience hiking tours through the Pyrenees' lush valleys and rugged peaks with comfortable huts and comprehensive hiking support packages.

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Anja Hajnšek
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