Crossing the Pyrenees on the GR10: the right trekking equipment
The beauty of the Pyrenees is the stuff of dreams. These landscapes, between sea and mountain, make you want to embark on the GR10 crossing! Yet this trek is not something to be improvised. You need to count on good physical preparation, but also plan appropriate equipment. Your gear must be light, so as not to hinder your walking, and practical. A suitable rucksack, warm clothing, a comfortable sleeping bag — you need to think of everything…
Crossing the Pyrenees via the GR10
Crossing the Pyrenees from West to East over 1,100 km, the GR10 is a mid-mountain route. For 6 to 8 hours of walking per day, allow between 65 and 70 days to complete it in its entirety.
Breathtaking scenery
The GR10 crosses the Pyrénées National Park, renowned for the beauty of its nature. The landscape is typical of high mountains, with its forests, verdant valleys, waterfalls, and high-altitude lakes… Wildlife is abundant. You may spot curious species, such as the Bearded Vulture. Or the Capercaillie, a bird that lives in forests. During your journey, you climb several passes offering exceptional viewpoints. The Pic du Canigou, for example, presents a unique panorama. Looking in all four cardinal directions, you can see France, Spain, the Canigou massif, and the Mediterranean. Your hike also takes you to the beautiful beaches of Hendaye, to the west, and Banyuls-sur-Mer, to the east. Xabi Barreneche, a former professional skier, gives you a glimpse of the beauty of the Pyrenees in pictures and videos.
Practical tips for your trek
A medium to difficult hiking route, the GR10 requires very good knowledge of the mountains and excellent physical preparation. Set off preferably between June and October to enjoy the best walking conditions. Some passes, depending on snow cover, may be difficult to access until mid-July. On the GR10, you can spend the night in a gîte or mountain refuge, or opt for camping. Note that bivouacking is regulated in the Pyrénées National Park. Tents must be pitched only between 7pm and 9am, away from motorised access routes. In the Néouvielle nature reserve, only 2 camping areas are permitted, near the lakes of Aubert and Orédon.
Trekking equipment
The GR10 trek requires you to plan appropriate equipment. In particular, you need to bring gear to protect yourself from the cold.
A sleeping bag
If you are camping, choose your sleeping bag carefully. To be easily transportable, it must be light (1 kg maximum) and compact. It is also important that it keeps you well warm during very cold mountain nights. Its optimal comfort zone, like that of the LADAKH 900 sleeping bag, should be between 0°C and -5°C. For your comfort, opt for a natural filling, such as the duck down used in Pyrenex sleeping bags.
A light and comfortable rucksack
For the trek, your rucksack should weigh no more than 2 kg when empty. Opt for a capacity of 50 to 70 litres so you can pack your tent, among other things. To keep your belongings dry, consider a rucksack cover. Moreover, to protect against leaks, you can compartmentalise the inside of your rucksack using bin bags.
Warm clothingFor your upper body, plan 3 layers of clothing:
- A long-sleeved close-fitting T-shirt. The garment should allow air to circulate, so avoid cotton fabrics;
- A down jacket or a fleece;
- A waterproof windbreaker . On your lower half, wear lightweight hiking trousers. Don't forget a hat, a neck warmer, and a pair of gloves. Finally, pack new cotton socks.
Other essential equipment
Before you leave, also remember to bring:
- a complete first-aid kit;
- a good pair of walking boots;
- a pair of sandals for resting in the evening;
- walking poles;
- a small compass;
- a pair of sunglasses;
- the necessary provisions, including a 1L bottle of water…
So, ready for your trek in the Pyrenees? If you found this article useful, feel free to share it on social media!
