What about emergency situations and safety precautions in the Pyrenees?

Stay on marked trails, be aware of weather changes, and carry a basic first aid kit. For emergencies, know the local rescue services (112) and have a means to call for help. We provide support and check-ins to ensure your safety throughout your hike.

Are the hut-to-hut hikes in the Pyrenees suitable for children?

Although our suggestion would be that they are at least 12 years old, many hikes are suitable for children who are accustomed to hiking and can handle distance and elevation changes. Assess your child's ability and choose a trail that aligns with their experience and stamina.

What is the weather like in the Pyrenees for hiking?

Weather in the Pyrenees can vary significantly , with warmer conditions in the lower valleys and cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Summers are generally mild, but conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so be prepared for all scenarios.

Must I book refuges in advance in the Pyrenees?

Yes, advance booking is crucial, particularly if you prefer specific types of accommodation or are hiking during the busy season. Refuges, especially the more popular ones, can fill up quickly.

What happens in case of bad weather during the hike?

In mild bad weather, such as rain, it's usually safe to continue your hike with appropriate gear. For severe weather conditions like heavy storms, staying in your current refuge is advised until it's safe to proceed. Always prioritize safety and follow the guidance of hut wardens or local authorities. We'll try our best to adapt your itinerary accordingly.

Do the refuges in the Pyrenees cater to dietary restrictions like vegetarian or vegan meals?

The availability of specific dietary options varies between refuges. Most manned refuges offer vegetarian meals , but vegan options might be limited. It's recommended to inform the refuge in advance of any dietary restrictions. Carrying additional food items to supplement provided meals is a good practice.

How are cell reception and internet connectivity in the Pyrenees?

Cell phone reception in the Pyrenees can be spotty, especially in remote areas or higher altitudes. Some refuges may offer Wi-Fi, but it's not common. Prepare for limited connectivity , which is a part of the remote mountain experience.

Young hiker girl summit to Ratera Peak in Aiguestortes and Sant Maurici National Park, Spain

Aigüestortes National Park and Sant Maurici Lake, Catalonia, Spain 2020/06

Cascada (waterfall) de Ratera, above Sant Maurici Lake, as seen from the trail to Refugi d'Amitges, Aiquestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, Pyrenees, Espot village, Catalonia, Spain

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Best seller

Carros de Foc Trail

7 days / 6 nights

Tackle the 55 km Carros de Foc hike in Catalonia, traversing from the serene Estany de Mar lake to challenging El pas de l’Ós, with stays in unique refuges.

Starting point

Espot

Finish point

Espot

Season

From July to September

Technical level

3/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Hut-to-Hut

Tackle the 55 km Carros de Foc hike in Catalonia, traversing from the serene Estany de Mar lake to challenging El pas de l’Ós, with stays in unique refuges.

Starting point

Espot

Finish point

Espot

Season

From July to September

Technical level

3/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Hut-to-Hut

Highlights

Experience the rugged beauty of the Catalan Pyrenees on a family-friendly hut-to-hut hike
Traverse a landscape of crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and towering mountain peaks
Explore Aigüestortes i Llac de Sant Maurici National Park
Immerse in the history of the trail, created in 1987 by the guardians of the mountains
Discover the serene beauty of numerous mountain lakes, including Estany de Mar and Estany de Saburo
Capture the breathtaking views from El pas de l’Ós and other majestic mountain passes

Itinerary of the trip

Your Pyrenees Hut to Hut Hiking adventure commences with a tranquil introduction in Espot, a picturesque starting point for your journey. The initial leg of your hike is a serene stroll through lush woodlands, leading you along a charming boardwalk. As you progress, the path gently ascends, inviting you to cross a quaint river that adds to the day's scenic beauty. Approximately 7 kilometers into your trek, you are greeted by the stunning sight of Lake Sant Maurici. Your destination for the day is the welcoming Refuge Mallafre, reached after a brief yet delightful hike.

Gallery

Young beautiful woman restin in Estany de Sant Maurici lake, after a long mrning hike in the Aiguestortes National Park, Pyreness mountains, Catalonia, Spain

Hiking

7.75 km and 600 m of elevation gain

Accommodation

Mountain refuge hut nestled among pine trees below a rugged, rocky peak under a clear blue sky.

Mountain refuge with smoke rising from chimney, set against snowy peaks and pine trees.

Bunk beds with blue mattresses in a rustic wooden dormitory room with small windows.

Refuge Ernest Mallafre

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Leaving Ernest Mallafré's hut, your second day in the Pyrenees guides you through a scenic 450m ascent to Amitges, with the trail winding past the serene Sant Maurici lake and through lush pine forests. The journey offers a blend of natural beauty, from the captivating view at Port de Ratera to the tranquil lakes and the stunning Cascada de Ratera waterfall. You'll navigate mostly flat paths and some ascents. Your day concludes at the Colomers hut, nestled at 2,135 meters altitude, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful evening immersed in the majestic mountain landscape.

Gallery

Refuge of Amitges mountain hut in the Amitges in the Aiguestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, Lleida, Spain.

Port de Ratera, Aigüestortes y Estany de Sant Maurici

natural view of Cascada de Ratera in forest in Lleida in Spain

Hiking

15.5 km and 1100 m of elevation gain / 870 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Mountain refuge hut beside deep blue alpine lake with rocky peaks in background

Mountain refuge by reservoir with low water level, rocky slopes, and clear blue sky.

Refugi Colomers

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

On this segment of your Carros de Foc hike, you face an ascent to the Port de Caldes, maneuvering over large rocks against a backdrop of snow-dusted peaks. At a junction, the path to the Restanca hut veers right, although there's a shortcut towards the Ventosa I Clavell hut. Your route takes you to Restanca first and then to Ventosa I Clavell, renowned for its 2017 renovations and proximity to a serene lake, ideal for an afternoon unwind.

Gallery

Hikers ascending grassy slope toward a bright blue alpine lake with mountains and a dam.

Tree in the water of the Black Lake, Aiguestortes National Park

Hiking

13 km and 1070 m of elevation gain / 1000 m elevation loss

Accommodation

Stone mountain refuge near a deep blue lake with hikers and rugged peaks.

Wooden bunk beds with white mattresses inside an attic room with wood paneling and a small window.

Refugi Ventosa I Cavell

Note: Listed accommodations are subject to availability; we will find similar alternatives if necessary.

On this demanding yet picturesque day of your hike, you'll traverse a small valley dotted with lakes and possibly grazing livestock before tackling the challenging ascent to Coll de Contraix, the highest point of the Carros de Foc at 2,748 meters. This segment, marked by steep, rocky paths and a near-vertical climb, offers a thrilling experience for seasoned hikers and a cautious journey for others. After conquering the peak, your descent through a new valley leads you to the tranquil Estany Llong hut, surrounded by nature and close to the serene Llong lake.

Gallery

A pine tree growing on a stone in “Parc Nacional d’Aigüestortes” near “Estany Llong” (Llong lake). Pyrenees of Catalunya. Spain

Joven senderista de ruta de montaña en una pradera con ganado en el parque nacional de aiguestortes en catalunya cerca de estany llong un dia de verano

Hiking

9 km and 720 m of elevation gain / 930 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Refugi d'Estany Llong

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Today's hike on the Carros de Foc offers a gentler pace yet still presents an invigorating challenge as you ascend nearly 800 meters to reach Refugi Colomina, the highest of all the refugis on this route. Your journey begins with an ascent through a forest, gradually transforming into stonier terrain as you gain altitude. Along the way, the path weaves through picturesque lakes and over the Dellui mountain pass. As you approach the Colomina hut, the trail crosses two dams and follows an old wagon train path. Your arrival at Refugi Colomina is rewarded with stunning views over the Southern section of Aigüestortes and a chance to relax and enjoy lunch by the lake.

Gallery

Aiguestortes National Park Catalan Pyrenees Spain

View on wooden Refuge Colomina - Aiguestortes Park.

Hiking

11.5 km and 870 m of elevation gain / 450 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Mountain refuge with solar panels beside a blue alpine lake surrounded by rocky terrain.

Wooden bunk beds with orange and blue bedding inside a room with OSB walls and wooden windows.

Refugi Colomina

Note: Listed accommodations are subject to availability; we will find similar alternatives if necessary.

The approximately two-hour final stretch to Josep Maria Blanc guides you past a series of captivating lakes, including Estany de Mar, Estany de Saburo, and the recognizable Estany Negre de Peguera, with El pas de l’Ós presenting the day's main challenge. As you descend towards the Josep M Blanc hut, careful navigation is essential to stay on the correct path. This final leg to Josep Maria Blanc and subsequently to Espot, where you’ll spend the last night, marks a triumphant end to your Carros de Foc adventure.For those wishing to extend their experience, there is the option to lengthen the hike by spending an additional night at the Blanc hut. This extension allows added rest before the final descent to Espot the following day.

Gallery

Hombre joven caucásico senderista encima de una roca contemlando las vistas de los picos al fondo en el parque nacional de Aiguestortes camino al Refugio Josep Maria Blanc

Vista del Estany Tort de Peguera en el Parque Nacional de Aigüestortes y Estany de Sant Maurici.

Mountain lake with wooden refuge, rocky islands, and blue mountain range backdrop.

Hiking

13.4 km and 375 m of elevation gain / 1500 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Stone and wood hotel building with balconies set against steep green mountains, Roca Blanca.

Breakfast buffet with meats, pastries, and fruit next to dining tables in a hotel lounge.

Roca Blanca

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

The last day is dedicated to rest and reflection, allowing you to depart at a leisurely pace. Espot, with its quaint charm and peaceful ambiance, provides the perfect backdrop for you to unwind and reminisce about the adventures and breathtaking scenery you've encountered. Whether strolling through the village streets, enjoying a leisurely meal at a local eatery, or simply soaking in the calmness of your surroundings, this day is a gentle conclusion to your journey.

Gallery

Aiguestortes Park in north of Lleida. Gerber lake and waterfall, Espot, Esterri d'ansu and Sort Town in Catalonia

FREE ITINERARY

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What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

5 nights in (mountain) huts with half board

1 night in a 3-star hotel with breakfast

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

Hotel upgrades

Single supplement

Transfer from Escalo to Espot

Guided

5 nights in (mountain) huts with half-board

1 night in a 3-star hotel with breakfast

Professional mountain guide

Tour design and organization

Service and support during your hike

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Extra nights

Hotel upgrades

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

In the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, the Carros de Foc trail awaits, offering an immersive experience in the natural splendor of Aigüestortes i Llac de Sant Maurici National Park in a blend of crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountain peaks, lush forests, and abundant wildlife.

Carros de Foc was born in 1987 when the guardians of these nine mountain huts decided to connect their worlds as an inside joke, creating a route that has since drawn adventurers from near and far.

Each step on this journey brings into view awe-inspiring landscapes, from the serene lakes like Estany de Mar and Estany de Saburo to the daunting yet exhilarating passes like El pas de l’Ós.

The trek is not technical and requires no climbing skills, making it accessible to all hikers, even families. Its circular nature and nine huts along the way mean the journey can be tailored to individual fitness levels and preferences.

Each hut, set in spectacular settings amid a land streaked with crystal-clear mountain lakes, offers a cozy bed, food, showers, and sometimes even Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable rest after a day of exploration.

We make sure that every detail is meticulously planned for you. From hut bookings to providing round-the-clock support and GPS navigation, we ensure a seamless experience. Our in-depth digital guidebook delves into the rich tapestry of Carros de Foc, offering insights and stories to enrich your journey.

Due to the high mountainous and relatively wild terrain of the Carros de Foc, luggage transfer is impossible, so you'll need to carry your belongings in a backpack but rest assured, the numerous huts along the route will provide ample food, water, and snacks.

If Carros de Foc calls to you, answer with an adventurous spirit and a heart open to the wonders of the Catalan Pyrenees!

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.

Ratings & Reviews

+119

Lou Gonano

Verified customer

Carros de Foc is a magical adventure with a little bit of spice for all trekkers: the vibe of the huts, the serene Lakes, the challenging trails, the occasional scrambles, options for extra peaks to climb, and a chance to serendipitously travel with strangers on the same loop. HUT TO HUT were great facilitators and accommodators to our needs and I would use them again for a memorable experience in the wilderness. I would recommend that a CDFmap be provided at the earliest stage so that trekkers can be better prepared.

elvis mcjunki

Verified customer · 9 months ago

Carros de Foc was an unforgettable experience. The loop took me through stunning high-altitude landscapes with glacial lakes, rocky ridges, and peaceful valleys. The huts were perfectly located and offered a great place to unwind after a full day of hiking. Anja’s recommendations on pacing and what to pack were spot-on, making the entire experience seamless. This trek is ideal for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Pyrenees’ natural beauty.

Paul VanRaaphorst

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Jan was a superb guide who looked out for the well being of our diverse group. We learned so much from him. You will definitely want Jan as your guide!

Hikers ascending steep, rocky terrain marked with a red and white trail blaze in fog.

Two hikers with backpacks and poles on rocky mountain trail under blue sky

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Hikers with backpacks and trekking poles on trail in steep, foggy mountain valley

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Christopher Turner

Verified customer · 5 months ago

The Tour du Mont Blanc was easily one of the most memorable trips I’ve taken in years. From breathtaking views and warm, welcoming people to delicious food and charming mountain huts, every aspect of the journey was unforgettable. The hikes were significantly more challenging than I had anticipated, but the reward was well worth the effort. I can’t overstate how much smoother and more stress-free the experience was thanks to Hut to Hut’s incredibly detailed guides. Having accommodations pre-booked, access to a well-designed GPS trail map, and a comprehensive guide outlining what to expect, what to pack, and what to watch out for made all the difference. If you’re considering hiking the TMB, I wholeheartedly recommend booking with Hut to Hut. Their support turned a great adventure into an exceptional one.

Hiking trail on grassy mountain slope with peaks shrouded in low clouds

Rocky mountain valley with glacier remnants, scattered trees, and a stream under a bright blue sky.

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Alpine lake with turquoise water reflecting snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.

Satish Singh

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Samo and Eva did a wonderful job in organizing my six-day Slovenian Mountain Trail hike. From the first contact to the delivery of the package with hike details, hut reservations, GPX etc. was efficient. I had a wonderful challenging hike as a solo self-guided hiker. Samo was supportive to the extent possible for my challenging day #4 from Aljazev Hut to Dolicu Hut in very bad weather. All arrangements worked perfectly. Highly recommend them if you want to take the difficulty out of the organization itself and simply enjoy the hiking expereince.

Mountain peaks above sea of fog at sunrise with vibrant orange sky

Hiker with backpack standing on rocky trail beneath rainbow over rugged mountains

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Black metal cat figures on bridge railing above a river in a green valley setting.

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Brendan Collins

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Incredibly route through the Karavank & Julien ranges. Huts were rustic & scenic and all check-ins were smooth. The route guides that Hut-to-Hut provided were extremely helpful, available offline & gave us peace of mind while traveling through new territory. Highly recommend.

Cow resting on green alpine pasture with blue mountains and informational sign

Mountain refuge hut among rocky terrain at sunrise with orange and yellow sky

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Three sheep grazing on a rocky alpine meadow with dramatic mountain ranges under a blue sky.

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Lou Gonano

Verified customer

Paul VanRaaphorst

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Jan was a superb guide who looked out for the well being of our diverse group. We learned so much from him. You will definitely want Jan as your guide!

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Satish Singh

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Show all 15 photos

elvis mcjunki

Verified customer · 9 months ago

Christopher Turner

Verified customer · 5 months ago

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Brendan Collins

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Show all 4 photos

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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.

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Carros de Foc Trail

Highlights

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival in Espot and ascent to Refugi Ernest Mallafré

Day 2: Refugi Ernest Mallafré – Refugi Colomèrs

Day 3: Refugi Colomèrs – Refugi Ventosa I Cavell

Day 4: Refugi Ventosa I Cavell – Refugi d'Estany Llong

Day 5: Refugi d'Estany Llong – Refugi Colomina

Day 6: Refugi Colomina – Espot

Day 7: Departure from Espot

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

Guided

What to bring to the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hut-to-hut hiking?

How do I prepare for a hut-to-hut hike in the Pyrenees?

Do I need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy hut-to-hut hiking in the Pyrenees?

What types of refuges can I expect on my hike in the Pyrenees?

How are the sleeping arrangements in the Pyrenees refuges?

What should I know about refuge etiquette in the Pyrenees?

What are the best times of year for hut-to-hut hiking in the Pyrenees?

Are meals provided in the Pyrenees refuges?

Ratings & Reviews

Lou Gonano

elvis mcjunki

Paul VanRaaphorst

Christopher Turner

Satish Singh

Brendan Collins

Lou Gonano

Paul VanRaaphorst

Satish Singh

elvis mcjunki

Christopher Turner

Brendan Collins

Similar Products

All available guidance options

Private Guided Solo

Private Guided Group

Self-guided

HASSLE-FREE

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

TRIED & TESTED ADVENTURES

UNBEATABLE SUPPORT

Have questions? Talk to us.

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival in Espot and ascent to Refugi Ernest Mallafré

Day 2: Refugi Ernest Mallafré – Refugi Colomèrs

Day 3: Refugi Colomèrs – Refugi Ventosa I Cavell

Day 4: Refugi Ventosa I Cavell – Refugi d'Estany Llong

Day 5: Refugi d'Estany Llong – Refugi Colomina

Day 6: Refugi Colomina – Espot

Day 7: Departure from Espot

Ratings & Reviews

Lou Gonano

elvis mcjunki

Paul VanRaaphorst

Christopher Turner

Satish Singh

Brendan Collins

Lou Gonano

Paul VanRaaphorst

Satish Singh

elvis mcjunki

Christopher Turner

Brendan Collins

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