Vignemale

Vignemale Massif / Photo: Jaufrai (Wikimedia Commons)
Vignemale Massif / Photo: Jaufrai (Wikimedia Commons)

 Height: 3298m


Situation:

Aragonese Pyrenees, head of the Bujaruelo valley and department of Hautes-Pyrenees, near Pont d'Espagne and the head of the Gavarnie valley.


When to go:

From mid-June to early July, ideal for glacier walking in perfect condition.

From the end of July onwards, the glacier was already showing significant crevasses.


Difficulties of the route:

High mountain route on glacier. Not very difficult technically, but it is absolutely necessary to pay attention to the falling stones. The blocks that accumulate are not very stable and it is necessary to pay attention.

It is necessary to rope up on some sections of the glacier, as crevasses can be masked until June.


Complicated sections:

The glacier: it is necessary to adapt to its appearance, which fluctuates over time.


Recommended equipment:

  • Ice axe and crampons almost indispensable.
  • Suitable boots, and gaiters appreciated.
  • Very useful walking sticks.
  • Belt and rope for the two steps already mentioned.
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen.