Gavarnie Gèdre

Ski-Areas > Pyrénées > Hautes-Pyrénées (65) > Pays Toy > Gavarnie Gèdre

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Description

The ski resort of Gavarnie Gèdre is situated in the Pays Toy area of the Hautes-Pyrénées department in the Pyrénées region. The lift served area extends from 1850 metres to 2400 metres. There are 45 km of lift served runs. There are 15 km of cross country trails.

History

Add a history of the resort here

Off Piste Routes

Gavarnie has the reputation as a small, family station. In May 2003 there was still quite a lot of snow and the mountains towards the brèche de Roland still wore their winter clothes well despite the summer temperatures in the valley below.

Pic Mourgat North Face

The off piste in Gavarnie really depends on the snow conditions you find when you get there. After a big dump you can ski all the way to the eponymous village situated at 1400 meters. Otherwise from the top of the draglifts located the 1850 parking area you can climb to the left to reach the Pic Mourgat. From there ski the north side, avoiding the large cliffs and avalanche protection for 700 meters of descent to the Granges de Holle. The avalanche danger is real and you need to know what you are doing to take this route. Speak to the piste patrol or hire a guide if in any doubt.

Couloirs de la Pahule

From the same lifts you can reach the Couloirs de la Pahule', by striking out to the right towards the Pic de la Pahule. Along the ridge there are a number of couloirs facing north towards the ski station. 500 vertical meters brings you back to the bottom of the ski lifts.

Vallée de Pouey Aspé

Much more difficult on account of the many hidden cliffs is the Vallée de Pouey Aspé. From the col de Tentes ski due south to the Soldier’s Cabin (cabane des soldats). When you reach the end of the valley follow it towards the east to avoid the cliffs to end up to the left of the Canyon des Tourettes. Assuming a snow line around 1300 meters you are rewarded with 1000 meters of descent.