La Porta del Cel
La Porta del Cel
Hut to Hut route
“La Porta del Cel” (The Door to Heaven) is an iconic trek in the Pyrenees connecting the Alt Pirineu Natural Park (Catalonia) with the Ariège Regional Natural Park (France). Covering 65 km, it traverses breathtaking landscapes such as the Pica d’Estats, Catalonia’s highest peak (3,143 m), and glacial lakes like Certascan, the largest in the Pyrenees. This route is ideal for experienced high-mountain adventurers, offering a unique physical and scenic challenge.
Technical Details
Type of route
CircularTotal Distance
65 kmCumulative Elevation Gain
±5.550 mDuration
4 days / 4 nightsPhysical demand
HighTechnical difficulty
Medium-highBest season
June to SeptemberHighlights
Pica d'Estats, llac Certascan, alpine valleys and mountain shelters.
Itinerary
Barcelona/Toulusse - Tavascan
Transfer from Barcelona or Toulouse by private transport to Tavascan. The journey, which takes approximately 3-4 hours, crosses idyllic landscapes that introduce the Pyrenees. Arrival at the village and accommodation. Free time to explore the village and prepare for the activities.
Transfer of 220-250 km (duration: 3-4 hours).
Meet the mountain guide and short briefing about next days.
Dinner included.
Tavascan - Bordes de Graus - Refugi de Certascan
Distance: 16.7 km
Elevation: +1,790 m / -670 m
Estimated Time: 8 hours
Description: The journey begins in the village of Tavascan, where a gradual ascent starts, passing through dense forests and small pastoral huts. As we gain elevation, the landscape becomes more mountainous, revealing spectacular views. We reach the Refugi de Certascan, located next to the largest glacial lake in the Pyrenees, where we can enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Highlights: Graus huts, Certascan Lake, and Pyrenean ridges.
Refugi de Certascan - Refugi de Pinet
Distance: 13.3 km
Elevation: +1,350 m / -1,350 m
Estimated Time: 10 hours
Description: This stage combines demanding ascents and technical descents, crossing several glacial lakes and the Port d'Artiga, one of the highest points of the route, offering spectacular mountain views. After an intense day of hiking, we arrive at the Refugi de Pinet, located on the French side.
Highlights: Romedo Lakes and Collado de Llurri vistas.
Refugi de Pinet - Refugi de Vallferrera
Distance: 13.3 km
Elevation: +1,100 m / -1,400 m
Estimated Time: 9 hours
Description: The day begins with the ascent to Pica d'Estats, the highest peak in Catalonia. The climb is demanding, but the views from the summit are incredible, offering a panorama that spans France, Andorra, and Catalonia. The descent to Refugi de Vallferrera, crossing spectacular mountain landscapes, is long and technical.
Highlights: Pica d’Estats summit and high-mountain panoramas.
Refugi de Vallferrera - Tavascan
Distance: 17.7 km
Elevation: +1,174 m / -1,967 m
Estimated Time: 8 hours
Description: The final stage combines gentle ascents and a long descent towards Tavascan. As we descend, the landscape transitions from high-mountain areas to lush forests. This day offers the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the valleys and reflect on the adventure experienced. The return to Tavascan marks the end of an unforgettable journey.
Highlights: Pyrenean valleys and historic trails.
Tavascan
Rest day in Tavascan.
Dinner included in a local restaurant near Tavascan.
Tavascan - Barcelona / Toulusse
Description: Return to Barcelona or Toulouse after a week of intense activities. Time will be provided for a final leisurely walk around the village before the transfer.
Transfer of 220-250 km (duration: 3-4 hours).
- 3 nights in a hotel with half board (breakfast and dinner) + 1 picnics
- 3 nights in a mountain Hut with half board + 3 picnics
- 1 dinner at a local restaurant
- All necessary transfers for the itinerary, by private transport.
- Mountain guide accompaniment throughout the trip.
- Ratio: 1 guide / 8 clients max.
- Accident and public liability insurance
Essential Gear: Mountain footwear, technical clothing, sun protection, and a lightweight backpack. Carry plenty of water and energy snacks.
Physical Level: Ideal for individuals with mountain experience and good physical fitness.
Hotel Estanys Blaus***
Start your journey in Tavascan, where you can gather information and prepare for the route. It's an excellent spot to acclimatize to the altitude and the surroundings of the Alt Pirineu Natural Park.
Certascan Refuge
This is one of the most iconic shelters on the route, located beside the glacial lake of Certascan, the largest in Catalonia. Here, hikers can enjoy stunning views and rest after a challenging day of trekking. The high-altitude location provides remarkable vistas of the region's highest peaks.
Pinet Refuge
Set in a remote area surrounded by untouched nature, Pinet Refuge offers a perfect opportunity to embrace the solitude and beauty of the Pyrenees. From here, trekkers can head towards Vallferrera Refuge.
Vallferrera Refuge
Nestled in a high mountain area, this is a pivotal stop before heading back to Tavascan. As the final shelter on the circuit, it offers breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and valleys.
Booking
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