Alta Ruta Pirenaica (ARP): History, Route and Tips for an Exceptional Crossing

The Haute Randonée Pyrénéenne (HRP) was born in the 1970s thanks to the French mountaineer Georges Véron, who, in 1968, crossed the Pyrenees with Jean-Pierre Neau and Claude Major in 41 stages. In 1974, Véron published the first ARP/HRP guidebook, a work that has gone through 12 editions in French and has been translated into 3 languages, with more than 70,000 copies sold.

The Haute Route Pyrenees is much more than a crossing; it is an adventure that combines history, nature and a remarkable physical and logistical challenge. Although its route shares certain stretches with the GR10 and GR11, the ARP is distinguished by its self-sufficient character and the demands it places on its adventurers.. Planning ahead, having the right equipment and a good sense of direction are the keys to enjoying this unique route through the Pyrenees.

Historical origins of the High Pyrenean Route

Although the idea of linking the Atlantic with the Mediterranean by crossing the Pyrenees was consolidated with Véron, it was not a novelty.

• Early pioneers:
  • Augustin-Pyramus de Candolle crossed the Pyrenees from east to west in 1807, making several ascents.
  • Fréderic ParrotIn 1817, the French physician and naturalist, joined the two seas to calculate the difference in height, estimated at 4.1 metres.
• Modern precursors:
  Jean Bepmale's 1906 voyage, documented in 1907, laid the foundations that would later be reformulated by Véron 60 years later.

The route and its characteristics

The original route of the Haute Route Pyrénéenne begins on the beaches of Hendaye and ends at Banyuls, running from west to east (although it can be travelled in the opposite direction).

• Itinerary and overnight stays:
  It alternates between free and serviced shelters; sometimes a tent is necessary.
• Difficulties and challenges:
  • It does not require climbing techniques or ice, but in summer snowdrifts can be encountered, making the use of ice axes advisable in specific sections.
  • The route, approximately 800 km long and with a cumulative elevation gain of around 46,000 metres, requires excellent physical preparation, orientation and self-sufficiency, especially due to the scarce signposting and the limited availability of services in the high mountains.

Comparison: Pyrenean High Route vs GR10 and GR11

The ARP differs from other Pyrenean routes such as the GR10 (northern slope) and the GR11 or Senda Pirenaica (southern slope):

• Marking and signposting:
  The ARP does not have its own signposting on a large part of the route, forcing walkers to link sections of signposted routes on other routes.
• Exposure and weather conditions:
  Following the main axis of the chain and the northern slope, the route passes through shady areas and at higher altitudes, where snow can be present even in summer.
  In contrast, the GR11 rarely has these disadvantages, except in some specific sections.
• Logistics and procurement:
  The ARP is characterised by a lower density of serviced accommodation. Sleeping is mainly in huts, free-standing shelters or tents, which can lead to periods of up to a week without provisioning.

Equipment and practical advice

The recommended equipment for the Alta Ruta Pirenaica is similar to that required for other hikes in the Pyrenees, such as the GR10 or GR11.

• Basic equipment list:
  • Suitable mountain footwear
  • Clothing for variable conditions (layers, mackintosh, etc.)
  • Snow equipment (ice axe, crampons) on high mountain sections or with risk of snowdrifts
  • Map, compass and/or GPS
  • Items for self-sufficiency (food, water, first aid)
  • In some cases, a tent or bivouac equipment.

For a more detailed list, please consult the "Equipment" tab in the GR10 guide available on our website.

Quick guide
ARP

with everything you need to know before undertaking the High Pyrenean Route (in English)