Highlights:

• Spectacular Cirque de Gavarnie

• Fortified church at Luz St. Sauveur

• Walk into the heart of the Pyrenees

• Impressive Pont Napoleon bridge

Brief:

⏱ Duration: 8 Days
🗺 Distance: 80 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging
🗓 Best Time: June - Sept
🛏 Accomm: Inns/Hotels

Walk Overview

The Meridian Way follows sections of the International Greenwich Meridian through some of the most spectacular parts of the French Pyrenees mountains. The Greenwich Meridian line starts in Greenwich, London and is the international standard of measuring time. This trail also taps into parts of the renowned GR10 long distance path linking the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

This trail wends along quiet mountain paths, ascending from mountain valley villages through scenic beech and fir forests, towards high pasturelands. Summits reward walkers with magnificent views of surrounding valleys and the impressive mountains bordering Spain.

The Meridian Way passes through several quaint mountain villages where refreshments can be enjoyed. There is much to explore in the picturesque village of Luz-Saint-Sauveur including the ruins of Chateau Sainte-Marie, the historic Bridge of Napoleon and the fortified twelfth century Templar church. The iron cross known as the Croix de Sia is another highlight en route, situated atop a promontory overlooking a breathtaking valley.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Cirque de Gavarnie (located on the outskirts of Gavarnie) is a fitting end to this scenic mountain valley hike. This extraordinary natural amphitheatre was formed by the process of glacial erosion. It features rock walls soaring up to 1,500 metres and the stunning Gavarnie Falls at its peak.

Further information:

• For more information on walking in The Pyrenees, click the button below.

• For assistance in organising a walking holiday in the Pyrenees, click the button below.