Senda Pirenaica
The GR 11 across the Spanish Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, traversing the entire range through high passes, glacial valleys, and…
Route overview
The Senda Pirenaica, known as the GR 11 or Trans-Pyrenean Trail, is a long-distance mountain trail of approximately 800 kilometres that traverses the Spanish Pyrenees from the Atlantic Ocean at Hondarribia to the Mediterranean at Cap de Creus. It is the southern counterpart to the French GR 10 and follows the highest and most dramatic sections of the Pyrenean range. The trail passes through the Basque Country, Navarre, Aragon, and Catalonia, crossing high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and remote valleys. The highest point is the Collado de Anayet at over 2,500 metres. The route uses a network of mountain refuges, cabins, and small villages. The Spanish side of the Pyrenees is drier and more rugged than the French side, with less infrastructure and a wilder character. The GR 11 is one of Europe's great mountain traverses, comparable to the Tour du Mont Blanc in scenery but much longer and more remote. It is demanding in both distance and elevation gain,…
The GR 11 across the Spanish Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, traversing the entire range through high passes, glacial valleys, and Basque, Aragonese and Catalan landscapes.
Trail facts
- Country
- Spain
- Region
- Spanish Pyrenees
- Distance
- c. 800 km
- Typical duration
- 5–7 weeks
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- c. 45,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- June–September
- Trail type
- High mountain traverse
Safety context
High passes are snow-covered until late June. Some sections are exposed to rockfall and lightning. River crossings after snowmelt are dangerous. The trail is remote with limited rescue access.
The full traverse is a major undertaking of five to seven weeks. Refuges must be booked in advance. Some sections require technical mountain skills. The trail is less frequented than the GR 10.
Highlights
Hondarribia and the Atlantic Basque Pyrenees green valleys Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park Aigüestortes glacial lakes Catalan Pyrenees peaks Cap de Creus and the Mediterranean High mountain refuges Remote Pyrenean valleys
Why find a buddy
One of Europe's great mountain traverses across the entire Pyrenees — a committed partner is essential for safety, logistics and shared experience on this demanding Atlantic-to-Mediterranean crossing.
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Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.