This three-day circular trek goes around Grande Fache, with optional summits on the first and final days. Days one and three involve more than 1,000 m of ascent, while day two includes close to 1,000 m of descent. Regular mountain walking and good fitness are required.

The summit options depend on the group’s wishes, fatigue, timing and weather. They do not involve major technical difficulties and rock-climbing skills are not required.

The main demands are accumulated ascent and descent, especially on the way down, and fatigue over successive days. Wind and low temperatures may add to the challenge. Read the full programme and contact us if you are unsure about your level.

Prepare with endurance exercise and mountain walks using a loaded backpack, the boots and the equipment you will take on the trip. Break in new boots beforehand. Tell us before the activity about any heart condition or other relevant health issue so that the guide can take it into account.

Included

• Three days with a mountain guide.
• Route planning and preparation.
• Hut booking arrangements.
• Initial assistance insurance.
• Photos of the activity.

Not included

• Overnight stays in mountain huts on a half-board basis.
• The guide’s half-board meal expenses.
• Lunches.
• Hut extras, such as showers and additional drinks.
• Costs arising from leaving the activity early.
• Travel to and from the destination.

What you need to bring

• Gore-Tex or equivalent waterproof jacket and trousers.
• Hiking trousers, synthetic insulated or down jacket, and fleece.
• Thermal base layer or short-sleeved top, depending on the weather.
• Thin gloves.
• Headtorch.
• Warm hat, sun cap, sunglasses and ski goggles.
• 35–45 litre backpack.
• Sun protection.
• A sleeping bag liner is recommended, although huts have blankets. Bring a towel.
• Food for the outings and 1.5 litres of water.

Footwear

• Mountain boots with ankle support if you have had previous ankle injuries, or reinforced hiking shoes that protect against rocks.

Personal first-aid kit

• Pain relief medication.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Anti-inflammatory medication.
• Sunscreen.
• Lip protection.

Food and drink

• The hut stay is on a half-board basis, so you only need food for the route: energy bars, chocolate and nuts, or a sandwich or cured meat if you prefer something savoury.
• At least 1.5 litres of water per person is essential.

Day 1: Baños de Panticosa – Tebarray summit – Respomuso hut. Overnight at the hut.

Day 2: Respomuso hut – Col de Cambalès – Wallon hut.

Day 3: Wallon hut – Marcadau summit – Baños de Panticosa.