GR10 Trail Map and Itinerary

Stage 1 - Hendaye to St Jean Pied de Port (98 kms)

This first stage starts at the Atlantic coast in the town of Hendaye in the Pays Basque region of France. You get a real sense of tranquillity and peace as you rise up above the Atlantic on the first stage of this walk. The scenery is punctuated with traditional villages and rolling hills. Catching a glimpse of the mountains in the distance alludes to the real challenge ahead. From the village of Dancharia high mountain passes and superb views prevail.

Stage 2 - St Jean Pied de Port to Etsaut (120.5 kms)

Remaining in the Pays Basque region of France, follow the deepening valley past small villages such as Caro and Esterencuby. As you walk along passing sparkling streams and green slopes the abundance or wildlife is apparent with herds of horses, cows and sheep grazing on the hillside.
From the hamlet of Logibar you enter the second region you will explore called The Bearn which where daily life very much operates to the rhythm of natures calender. The glacial landscape at Lescun is a sight to savour en route to the end of this section at Etsaut.

Stage 3 - Etsaut to Cauterets (88.3 kms)

There are some challenging days ahead as you enter the Pyrenean National Park.  Setting off from Etsaut you come accross the Chemin de la Mature, a path carved into a sheer rock face over 200m above the Aspe River Valley.
The Ossau Valley opens up before you with a spectacular view of the Pic de Midi d’Ossau whose reflection shimmers in the waters of Lac de Gentau. Pass small villages made from the local slate and wide open pastures before reaching the spa town of Cauterets.

Stage 4 - Cauterets to Luchon (120.3 kms)

This section takes you right to the heart of the Pyrenees. The villages in the area are renowned for the benefits of their thermal spas. Discover the flora and fauna of the Pyranees whilst walking through the nature reserve of Neouvielle. The path continues through high mountain passes with glacial lakes.  The Valley of Light ‘Vallee Lumiere’ is a real joy for walkers and a highlight of the section.

Stage 5 - Luchon to Aulus les Bains (155.8 kms)

From Luchon the GR10 follows ancient pathways that were used as a means of transportation between the deep valleys. Approaching the foothills of the Ariege Mountains the wide-open, airy views make you think that you are on top of the world. Take time to savour the ambience of the small mountain villages that you pass through where time seems to stand still. Give yourself time to experience the thermal spa’s at the end of this section in Aulus les Bains.

Stage 6 - Aulus les Bains to Merens (110.1 kms)

This itinerary crosses the western and central sections of the Pyrenees. High plateau’s, deep valley’s hemmed in by soaring  summits and snow dusted peaks are very much a feature of this area. Your walk is ever-changing as the mood of the mountains changes with the light. Roman churches, traditional shepherds huts and high mountain farms dot the landscape as you make your way towards Merens.

Stage 7 - Merens to Verney le Bains (81.5 kms)

Roussillion plains on this section of the walk.  Watch out for izards (from the antelope family) and wild mountain sheep as you descend to lake Bouillouses.
Winding your way around mountain lakes and through national forest brings you to the village of Planes. You will pass the stunning gorge at Caranca and the nature reserves at Py and Mantet. The end of this part of the GR10 is at the spa town of Vernet le Bains at the foot of Mount Canigou the proud symbol of the sunny Catalan region.

Stage 8 - Verney le Bains to Banyuls sur Mer (129.2 kms)

Arrive in Vernet des Bains early in the day and take the opportunity to visit the Abbey of Saint Martin du Canigou. Situated on a rocky peak and still inhabited by a religious community. The summit of Massif du Canigou dominates the Roussillon plains and the Mediterranean coastline on the final section of the GR10. 
The contrasts are stark as the environment changes from Alpine to Mediterranean as you make your way towards the coast. The sight of the glistening blue sea and the beaches of Banyuls are a welcome one as you complete your journey.

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