Route 6: Taillon – 15 peaks over 3,000 metres in the Pyrenees

The Pic du Taillon is one of the easiest peaks to access at over 3,000 meters in the Pyrenees. It culminates at 3,144 meters above sea level on the Franco-Spanish border in the Mont-Perdu massif.
Le Taillon offers a breathtaking view of several remarkable sites in the Pyrenees.

The start of the route is at the Col des Tentes car park located upstream of the Gavarnie ski resort. The first section remains relatively flat until you reach the waterfall of the Taillon glacier. Be careful if some snow remains when you cross the waterfall. The climb becomes steeper on rocky terrain which leads you to the Sarradets refuge. Recently renovated, it suggests a very nice break with a direct view of the famous Roland Breach and further on the Cirque de Gavarnie and its huge waterfall. Take the opportunity to fill up with water before climbing into the breach.

This imposing wall marks the border with Spain. When you cross it, a completely different landscape is offered to you and you can discern the Ordesa canyon in the distance. You walk along the cliffs of the breach on the Spanish side towards Le Taillon. You pass a large rocky mound nicknamed the Taillon finger, then the final ascent begins.

At the top, the spectacle is simply grandiose. The diversity of natural elements seems unlimited: the Cirque de Gavarnie, the Breche de Roland, Mont Perdu, the Ordesa Canyon and the Vignemale.

This hike can be done in one day, but you can absolutely sleep at the Sarradets refuge or bivouac at the top of Taillon. I strongly recommend it to offer you an unforgettable sunrise and sunset. You can also find a few pitches at the foot of the Breche de Roland, on the Spanish side.