A legendary trail in the heart of the Pyrenees
The GR10 is one of France’s most iconic hiking trails, crossing the Pyrenees from west to east, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Stretching over nearly 900 km , this legendary route attracts trail runners and hikers from all over the world in search of a long and demanding adventure. The GR10 offers a huge challenge, with its impressive elevation changes, breathtaking mountain scenery and wild nature. It is the ultimate test for trail enthusiasts, with sections as technical as they are varied, crossing passes, valleys and peaks.
A varied route through the Pyrenees
From the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean
The GR10 connects Hendaye , on the Atlantic coast, to Banyuls-sur-Mer , on the shores of the Mediterranean. The trail winds through the Pyrenees mountain range, alternating between coastal landscapes, dense forests, and rocky high plateaus. This route crosses natural parks, isolated valleys, as well as typical Pyrenean villages, offering a total immersion in the culture and beauty of the region.
The GR10 is divided into several stages, with emblematic passages such as the Cirque de Gavarnie , the Pic du Midi d'Ossau , or the Pic Carlit , key points that mark the diversity and intensity of the route. The often steep trails test both the physical condition and the mental capacity of the runners.
The stages and the difference in altitude
The GR10 is known for its significant elevation gain , with frequent climbs and descents. Each day, trail runners can accumulate thousands of meters of elevation gain, leading them to cross passes and traverse isolated valleys. The entire route requires endurance and rigorous preparation, with sections where the altitude regularly exceeds 2,000 meters .
The stages vary in difficulty, with some being more rolling, while others are more technical, requiring great vigilance on rocky paths. The weather conditions, unpredictable in the mountains, add an additional difficulty to the challenge.
Features of the GR10
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | GR10 |
| Distance | 900 km |
| Elevation gain | 55,000 meters |
| Place | Pyrenees, France |
| Average duration | 40 to 45 days (hiking), shorter for trail running |
| Notable points | Pic du Midi d’Ossau, Cirque de Gavarnie, Pic Carlit |
| Weather conditions | Variables (sun, storms, snow) |
| Target audience | Elite trail runners, experienced hikers |
The physical and mental challenges of the GR10
An extraordinary height difference and distance
With nearly 55,000 meters of cumulative elevation gain over 900 km, the GR10 is one of the most difficult routes in Europe. The accumulation of steep climbs and technical descents pushes participants to their physical limits. The management of the The effort becomes crucial to not exhaust yourself too quickly, and the ability to recover between stages is essential to complete this long journey.
Variable weather conditions
The Pyrenees climate is particularly changeable. Trail runners can face the stifling heat of the valleys, before finding themselves in cool and humid conditions at altitude. Thunderstorms, fog or even snow can make certain sections of the trail dangerous. It is therefore imperative to be well equipped and prepared for all eventualities.
An unforgettable natural and human experience
A trail in the heart of the wilderness
The GR10 offers a total immersion in the wild nature of the Pyrenees. The landscapes crossed are of breathtaking beauty, with majestic mountains, crystal clear high-altitude lakes, deep forests, and breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valleys. The trail allows you to discover protected national parks, such as the Pyrenees National Park , where fauna and flora abound.
A feeling of camaraderie and adventure
Despite the difficulty of the route, the spirit of solidarity and camaraderie is omnipresent on the GR10 . Trail runners regularly cross paths in the refuges, sharing their experiences and supporting each other in the face of the challenges encountered. This human aspect, combined with the adventure in the great outdoors, makes the experience even more enriching.
An epic challenge for mountain lovers
The GR10 is a legendary trail that represents a real challenge for trail runners and hikers. Crossing the Pyrenees from one end to the other is an unforgettable experience, combining endurance, adventure and discovery of nature in its purest state. Whether you are an experienced trail runner or a hiking enthusiast, the GR10 is an adventure to take on to push your limits and discover one of the most beautiful regions of France.
Want to discover other trails? Explore our selection of the most challenging trails for new mountain adventures!
