The
possibilities for High-level, strenuous walking
in the Pyrenees are endless. It is
best to gain the advantage of height through either driving to a central
point, such as Plateau Beille or by using the cable car at Ax
Les Thermes. The
Nordic/Cross
Country
Skiing areas provide a good starting point/access to the higher slopes
without being spoilt by cables & pylons. Excellent Refuges/Mountain
huts, such as Refuge d'En Beys (accessed through from the Orlu valley, south
of Ax Les Thermes) offer accommodation and food at heights of 2000m+ giving
you the opportunity to explore the summits and higher reaches. The
main 'manned' refuges open in the summer also provide first-hand expertise
and advice.
Below is a list of refuges in the Ariege:
Refuges de montagne de l'Ariège - Pyrénées:
http://www.pyrenees-pireneus.com/refuge_de_Ariege.htm
It is ESSENTIAL
that you are fully prepared and equipped for high level walking -
conditions change rapidly, it can snow above 1800-2000m at any time of
the year. Indeed, snow has been falling above 2000m into June
2011 so many high passes and summits could be impassable right into late
summer. For the majority of the year there is a significant risk of avalanche.
From late May onwards in particular
there is also a SIGNIFICANT threat of thunderstorms in the mountains every
day especially after midday.
ALWAYS Consult local mountain weather forecast and avalanche on http://france.meteofrance.com/france/montagne
For all these reasons, be well prepared for all eventualities, seek local advice and knowledge, use guides when possible, and apply all the rules of mountain walking, including informing someone of your route on a daily basis - don't just rely on a mobile phone. The Pyrenees are 3 times higher than Scafell Pike - higher, steeper, further, with resulting bigger problems and dangers. TAKE CARE and ENJOY!
You can also climb with an International Mountain Leader
by prior appointment. Please
contact us for more information.
There are many books, guides and information on the internet to help you plan an adventure! We can help point you in the right direction. Hopefully during 2011 (or 2012!) we will have the time to tackle some of the higher routes, such as Mt Valier and Le Chemin de la Liberté.
