GR10 — Pyrenean Way
A challenging traverse of the French Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, staying on the French side of the mountain range throughout.
Route overview
Full traverse of the French Pyrenees staying on the French side, from the Atlantic at Hendaye to the Mediterranean at Banyuls-sur-Mer.
The GR10 runs approximately 900 kilometres from Hendaye on the Atlantic coast to Banyuls-sur-Mer on the Mediterranean, traversing the entire French Pyrenees while staying on the French side of the watershed. It is one of the longest and most demanding long-distance routes in France, maintained by the Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre. The route alternates between deep river valleys and high mountain passes, with total cumulative ascent exceeding 48,000 metres over its full length. The western Basque and Béarn sections pass through green pastoral hills and traditional villages before the route rises dramatically into the High Pyrenees in the central section. The Ariège and eastern Pyrenees toward the Mediterranean coast offer drier, sunnier terrain with distinctive Catalan character. The GR10 is waymarked with the standard French red-and-white GR markers throughout. Refuges (mountain huts) provide accommodation on higher sections, while gîtes d'étape in valley villages offer shelter and meals. The route avoids crossing into Spain, making it entirely manageable without…
Trail facts
- Country
- France
- Region
- Pyrenees, France
- Distance
- 900 km
- Typical duration
- 45–50 days
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- 48,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- July–September
- Trail type
- Point-to-point
Access and logistics
- Bookings
- Mountain refuges in the central Pyrenees should be booked in advance during July and August. Valley gîtes d'étape generally accept walk-in guests in shoulder season.
Safety context
High passes should not be attempted in afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in July and August. Snow remains on some passes until late June or early July. A compass and IGN 1:25,000 maps are strongly recommended.
Some sections have limited refuge availability — plan accommodation carefully. River crossings can be hazardous after heavy rain. The route is poorly waymarked in a few places; GPS track recommended.
Highlights
Basque country and Pays Basque villages Pic du Midi d'Ossau area Cirque de Gavarnie Pic de la Carança Andorran border region Mediterranean arrival at Banyuls
Why find a buddy
Fifty days in the mountains, high passes, and remote refuge nights are all more manageable — and more enjoyable — with a reliable partner sharing navigation and the physical demands of the high Pyrenees.
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Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.