4.8
(67)
1,030
hikers
Marcadau Valley
05:06
15.7km
530m
Hiking
This hike, accessible to all levels, offers a lovely route which winds through the hollow of the Marcadau valley. Imbued with a unique atmosphere where history and pastoralism blend wonderfully with nature, it begins at the paid parking lot of the Pont d'Espagne. Note that if you wish to split this stage in two, it is possible to spend the night at the Wallon-Marcadau refuge, located in the middle of the route.
The route passes quickly above the Gave du Marcadau to reach the restoration sites located at the Pont d’Espagne. A beautiful waterfall is located slightly upstream. The route continues to climb towards the Clot plateau and its pretty eponymous chalet.
As the water flows, you gradually sink into the Marcadau valley. Crossed by the eponymous watercourse, it spreads out over several small plateaus. They are crossed without difficulty while following the banks of the Gave. In winter, this site offers beautiful ski touring trails, while in summer it is a delight for fly fishermen.
A short climb in the woods brings you to a new plateau which offers superb views of the mountains. Not far from there, you reach the Wallon-Marcadau refuge. Freshly renovated, it is possible to spend the night there or take a nice break before turning back into the valley. The return takes approximately the same route as the outward journey, with the only difference being that it takes the other bank of the Gave du Marcadau.
Last updated: June 13, 2024
Waypoints
Start point
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370 m
View of the Pont d'Espagne waterfalls
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.33 km
Marcadau Plateau
Highlight • River
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Tip by
7.79 km
Wallon-Marcadau Refuge
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Tip by
15.7 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.79 km
4.30 km
4.15 km
1.34 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
8.29 km
4.30 km
1.75 km
1.06 km
182 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,840 m)
Lowest point (1,480 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 8 July
26°C
13°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Comments
Showing Translation
Start and finish was at the Plateau du Puntas at the bus station. The best way to get here is by taking the shuttle bus from Cauterets.
Showing Translation
January 26, 2024
This hike, accessible to all levels, offers a lovely route which winds through the hollow of the Marcadau valley. Imbued with a unique atmosphere where history and pastoralism blend wonderfully with nature, it begins at the paid parking lot of the Pont d'Espagne. Note that if you wish to split this stage
Translated by Google •
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