Cirque de Gavarnie: Nature's Colosseum
Discover the Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the French Pyrenees, offering breathtaking glacial landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and a rich cultural history.
The Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the French Pyrenees, is a breathtaking glacial amphitheater. Often called the "Colosseum of nature," its towering cliffs rise 1,500 meters above the valley floor. The iconic Gavarnie Falls, one of Europe's highest waterfalls, plunges 422 meters down the rock face. Visitors can explore diverse hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging treks, and spot local wildlife like chamois and marmots. The nearby village of Gavarnie offers charming accommodations and local cuisine, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and hikers seeking awe-inspiring landscapes and a unique cultural experience in the heart of the Pyrenees.
A brief summary to Cirque de Gavarnie
- Gavarnie-Gèdre, FR
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking and avoid crowds on the trails.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trails can be rocky and the weather can change quickly.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for all conditions, including rain and wind.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the geology, history, and culture of the Cirque de Gavarnie.
- Sample the local cuisine in the village of Gavarnie, such as garbure (a traditional Pyrenean soup) and blueberry pie.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Cirque de Gavarnie, drive to the village of Gavarnie via the D921 road. Be aware that from June 15th to September 30th, the village is often closed to traffic between 9 AM and 5 PM. Parking is available in paid lots at the entrance to the village (€8/24 hours for cars, €10/24 hours for motorhomes). Consider arriving early to secure a spot, especially during peak season. Some hotels offer parking for guests.
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Public Transport
From Lourdes, take the liO bus route 965 to Gavarnie-Gèdre (Office de Tourisme stop). The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Check the seasonal timetable on the Office de Tourisme Vallées de Gavarnie website for current schedules. From the Gavarnie-Gèdre bus stop, follow the signs for 'Cirque de Gavarnie,' which is about a 45-minute walk to the foot of the cirque.
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Walking
From the village of Gavarnie, the final approach to the Cirque de Gavarnie is an easy, well-marked path of approximately 1.5 hours (round trip). The path runs alongside the Gave de Gavarnie river, leading directly to the foot of the cirque and the Hôtellerie du Cirque. Horseback riding and donkey treks are also available from the village to the Cirque Hotel.
Discover more about Cirque de Gavarnie
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Guias de Torla
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Miradores de Ordesa 4x4.Excursiones a P.N Ordesa y Monte Perdido. y Bujaruelo en 4×4
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Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park Visitor Centre
11.3 km
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ordesa.net
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Pic Long
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Porte d'Espagne
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Saqués
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Massif du Pic-du-Midi-d'Arrens
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Pyrénées Expérience, glisse et aventure en montagne
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Pic de Predouset
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Monte Perdido Digital
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Eglise Saint Saturnin d'Argelès-Gazost
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Monte Perdido
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Faja de Escusana
5.4 km
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Fajeta Tozal del Mallo
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Cueva del Furicon
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Clavijas de Carriata
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Cascada de la Cola de Caballo
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Cascada del Cinca
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Tozal del Mallo
6.4 km
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Senda de los Cazadores
6.6 km
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Pradera de Ordesa
6.7 km
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Cascada del Sandaruelo
6.9 km
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Cascada de Arripas
7.0 km
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Gradas de Soaso
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Cascada de la Cueva
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Essential places to dine
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Parador de Bielsa
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Restaurante Bar Turieto
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La Terraza Mondarruego
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Restaurante Pizzería El Taillón
11.2 km
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Restaurante Atalaya Torla
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A Borda Samper
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Restaurante La Brecha
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El Duende
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Pizzeria Santa Elena
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Restaurante La Cocinilla
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La Cantera
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Casa Vallés
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Pierre Des Pyrénées
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La Taillerie des Pyrénées Benne
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Regalos Ordesa
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Panaderías del Pireneo
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La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa
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Carnicería Bun
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Artesanía las Nieves
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Bar Frankfurt La Gruta
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Estanco Tabacos La Casa Vieja
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Brotes Ordesa
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La Tienda de Montaña
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Comercio Bardají
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bar restaurante La Cabaña Grill & Chill
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