GR10 Trail

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.

Accommodation

The accommodation along the trail can be quite basic and you will be staying in a mixture of gites and mountain refuges in private rooms if available, otherwise in communal dormitories. Some nights you will be accommodated in hotels. Hot showers are not always guaranteed in the refuges. There may be a short transfer on some days to and from your accommodation, if this is the case then this is included in the price.

Single Rooms

This independent walking holiday is not available to solo walkers. If you require single rooms in your party we will of course try to accommodate your request, subject to availability and payment of a single supplement.

Meals

Meals are included as per the itineraries. Generally the evening meal on the first and last night is not included. Packed lunches can be bought locally.

Baggage Transfer

Your main luggage is transferred to the different night stops that are accessible by vehicle. There are some stops on stage 3,4,5,6,7 & 8 that you will not have access to your main bags therefore you will need to carry minimal overnight gear on these days.

By Air: The closest airport to Hendaye is Biarritz Parme (25kms). Easyjet have regular flights from London Gatwick, Lyon and Paris. The closest airport from Banyuls sur Mer at the end of the GR10 is Girona in Spain (117kms). Flights are available to many UK and European destinations.

By Train: Both Hendaye and Banyuls sur Mer are accessible by train from many of the main French cities.  See TGV website for details.

For further information on travel details please see our travel blog

Planning a trip on the GR10 can be daunting, especially if this is your first long distance walking holiday. We are often asked the following questions and I hope that you will find the answers useful.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us or perhaps visit our walking forum for more advice from our clients and team.

How fit do I need to be?

The GR10 trail is a walk through the Pyrenees, therefore we would suggest that you are an experienced walker who is looking for a challenge. If you currently don’t enjoy an active lifestyle we suggest regular walking in hilly terrain supplemented by cardio vascular exercise for at least 6 months prior to your walk. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme.

Which is the best airport to fly to?

The closest airport to Hendaye is Biarritz Parme (25kms). Easyjet have regular flights from London Gatwick, Lyon and Paris.

How far in advance do I need to book?

We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised. You will find up to date availability on our website and we will always try and accommodate your plans.

What personal equipment do I need?

You will need good walking shoes/boots (ideally waterproof), comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, sleeping bag, a daypack and hats/gloves etc. You can download a full equipment list from the downloads page of our website

When is the best time of year?

The best months for walking are in the summer months between June and September when the wild flowers are in bloom and the weather is fair.

Am I able to take my dog?

Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs on this trail.

What happens if I can’t walk a stage?

There is limited transport once you are in the mountains of the GR10 and the trail is organised around the days therefore if you are to stop there may not be transport to carry you to the next point. If you are walking more than one section I would recommend adding in an extra day in between to rest.

The GR10 is available from mid-May until the end of September. The start and finish dates for the each section vary slightly depending on altitude.

To make a provisional reservation select "Book". Option & Extension prices will be displayed as part of the booking process.

Because every holiday we book is unique availability changes from day to day and our booking process works as follows:

• You provisionally book the tour/s you are interested in on your preferred dates and pay a 20% deposit online or by phone.
• We confirm availability and book all your accommodation and options and send final confirmation as soon as everything is confirmed (max 5 working days).
• If we are unable to accommodate you on your confirmed dates/tour or an alternative of your choice your deposit is fully refunded.