Carros de Foc Trail
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
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.
7.75 km and 600 m of elevation gain
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.
15.5 km and 1100 m of elevation gain / 870 m of elevation loss
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.
13 km and 1070 m of elevation gain / 1000 m elevation loss
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.
9 km and 720 m of elevation gain / 930 m of elevation loss
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.
11.5 km and 870 m of elevation gain / 450 m of elevation loss
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.
13.4 km and 375 m of elevation gain and 1500 m of elevation loss
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.
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Description
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.
With Pyrenees Hut to Hut Hiking, every detail is meticulously planned for you. From hut bookings to providing 24/7 support and GPS navigation, we ensure a seamless experience. Our in-depth travel booklet 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!
Trail Map
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Things to know
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, it’s advised to stay in your current refuge 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.
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.
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.
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