Gentle Nature Walk at the Cirque de Gavarnie

The Cirque de Gavarnie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is accessible to most people. It is a highlight of the Parc National des Pyrénées (National Park of the Pyrenees Mountains) and one of the top attractions in the French Pyrenees region.

An easy loop walk begins in Gavarnie's little town, passing the Hôtel du Cirque and horse stables before following the stream up to the valley's head. This trail is more of a stroll than a trek because it has practically no incline. Glacier-formed limestone rock cliffs rise 1,700 meters in the distance and encircle the small valley, giving the impression of a natural cathedral. Numerous rushing waterfalls fall from the snow-dusted tops, adding to the dramatic magnificence (over 3,000 meters in altitude). The Grande Cascade is the most magnificent, with a drop of over 400 meters, making it Europe's tallest waterfall.