Is it possible to do the GR11 with a tent?

ByEduardo Azcona
Camping with a tent on the GR11, Eastern Pyrenees
Camping with a tent on the GR11, Eastern Pyrenees

Bringing a tent will, above all, give us more autonomy and flexibility in our itinerary.We are aware of the difficulty of keeping to schedules. This is the most common option for those who make the complete crossing, as it avoids depending on shelters that could be full and reduces the economic budget that we will need. 

The price to pay will be to carry the tent and a more suitable bag (a bit warmer). Fortunately, for quite a few years now, we have been able to find several models of ultra-lightweight tents that are quite sturdy. The recommendation is not to skimp and to get a good ultralight and resistant tent, new or second-hand, to minimise weight and maximise comfort.

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Where to sleep
Free shelters

📜 Legality of camping along the GR 11

And now we come to the legal issues: the issue of bivouacs, free camping, free camping in the high mountain mode..., its legality depending on the place, is complicated to answer by the different regulations that exist in each autonomous community, natural parks, national parks and the exceptions that may exist around the shelters (federations, private, CEEC). 

Camping by region

The legality of camping on this route varies by region and local regulations. Here is a breakdown of the main regulations by area:

  • Basque CountryFree camping is regulated by a decree allowing a maximum of three tents per group, with restrictions on proximity to other campsites and tourist areas.

  • Camping is only allowed in designated areas.
  • High mountain camping is allowed.
  • In protected areas such as the Irati Forest or the Tristuibartea Nature Reserve (forest between Villanueva de Aezkoa and Aribe) it is prohibited.

Regional Decree 226/1993 of 19 July 1993.regulating the environmental conditions for free camping: "This Decree shall not apply to free camping on mountain traverses on foot, unless they are supported by motor vehicles, in which case it shall apply to them. Nor does it apply to bivouacking, the practice of spending the night in the open".

  • Natural ParksBivouacking is allowed above certain altitudes. Free camping is prohibited in protected areas.
  • Case of the Góriz mountain hutThe only place in the Ordesa Valley where camping is allowed, with prior reservation (maximum 50 people), but only if the refuge is full.

"From 9 February 2022 bivouacking or overnight camping is prohibited in the entire Ordesa sector. Overnight bivouacking or camping is only allowed in the camping area of Góriz, with a limited capacity, and PRIOR RESERVATION IS ESSENTIAL through the Góriz Refuge website."

  • GeneralFree camping is prohibited, except around mountain refuges.

"Free camping is prohibited below 2000m. It is only allowed in the vicinity of a shelter, at night and when the shelter in question is full". Official tourism portal of Andorra.

  • Natural ParksFree camping is forbidden. Bivouacking is allowed in high mountains outside natural parks.

You can consult the official website of the Parcs naturals de Catalunya.

GR11 with tent, Eastern Pyrenees
GR11 with tent, Eastern Pyrenees

General considerations

  • High altitude camping vs. free campingHigh mountain camping (pitching a tent at dusk and dismantling at dawn) is more permissive than free camping. Bivouacking (sleeping without a tent) is generally allowed outside protected areas.
  • Private properties and municipalitiesThey require permission from the landowner or are governed by specific municipal regulations.

Advantages and disadvantages of carrying a tent

So, by carrying your tent you will save a lot of money and you won't have to worry about whether the free shelter you are going to is full. On the other hand, you will have more weight.

  1. Autonomy and flexibility:
    • Flexible itinerary: Allows you to adjust your daily pace without depending on the availability of shelters or hostels.
    • Independence: Facilitates overnight stays in remote locations or when shelters are full.
  2. Economic savings:
    • Reduced daily budget: Avoid accommodation costs and allow the use of free camping areas where permitted.
    • Avoid awkward situations: You won't have to compete for space in crowded shelters.
  1. Additional weight:
    • Extra load: Increases the overall weight of the backpack, which can result in increased physical exertion.
    • Additional equipment: You will need to bring a sleeping bag suitable for low temperatures and a thermal insulator.
  2. Climate and conditions:
    • Weather conditions: Camping can be a nuisance in adverse conditions such as heavy rain, strong wind or extreme cold.
    • Safety: Make sure you pitch your tent in safe places, away from potential hazards such as avalanches or floods.

⛺ Recommendations for camping on GR11

Doing the GR11 with a tent is a viable option and offers great autonomy, although it means carrying more weight and being prepared for different weather conditions. With the right preparation and the right equipment, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of camping on one of the most spectacular hiking routes in the Pyrenees.

  1. Ultralight tentInvest in a lightweight, durable tent. Ultralight models significantly reduce weight without compromising durability. Here is one guide to choosing the best. By way of advice, the Ferrino Lightent 2 Pro is very good. If you're on your own, I would take the Lightent 1which weighs 1.53 kg.
  2. Sleeping bag and insulationTake a sleeping bag suitable for the temperatures you will face and a thermal insulator for the ground.
  • Permitted camping areas: Familiarise yourself with local camping regulations in the national and natural parks along the route. We discussed at the beginning of this article how complicated it is to know the legalities among so many administrative bodies.
  • Hydration and nutrition: Plan water resupply points and carry enough food, especially in stages where there are no services.

Use shelters, campsites and bivouacs where permitted for a safe and environmentally friendly experience.

  • Mountain RefugesAvailable along the GR 11.
  • CampsitesLegal alternative in accessible areas.
  • BivouacPermitted under certain conditions.
  • Leave-no-trace practices: Minimise your environmental impact by following the practices of Leave No Tracecollecting all your waste and avoiding damaging the local flora and fauna.
  • ClimateCheck weather forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions. Adjust your plans if conditions are adverse.

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GR 11

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