Day 7 at Aigüestortes National Park: trekking tour
Embarking on Day 7 of our Aigüestortes National Park trekking tour in the Spanish Pyrenees, we leave the Refugio de Colomina with a tinge of nostalgia.
This small mountain hut, the coziest on our adventure, offers a profound sense of connection to nature and adventure.
Normally, I skip this stop, preferring the direct 11-12 hour trek from Refugio d’Estany Llong to Refugio Josep Maria Blanc.
However, many participants suggested breaking up this long trek, and I agreed.
Now, we enjoy a more manageable day’s journey.
The Journey from Refugio de Colomina
The trek from Refugio de Colomina to Refugio Josep Maria Blanc spans 7 kilometers, taking approximately 5 hours with an elevation gain and loss of 500 meters each.
As we start our day, the path winds around Estany de La Colomina.
The turquoise waters are mesmerizing, almost begging us to linger, but we press on.
Overcoming Natural Challenges
The abundant turquoise hues of the lakes contrast sharply with the rugged terrain.
We pass Estany de Mar and encounter an imposing staircase, a challenging but invigorating part of our trekking tour.
By now, our muscles are warmed up, and our previous days’ efforts have strengthened us.
The steps, roughly hewn with necessity rather than skill, test our endurance.
We then climb up to Coll de Saburó, navigating a large gravel pit.
This section requires careful zigzagging to avoid large boulders, and often, we rely on instinct rather than trail marks.
What follows is a steep descent, a common but tough part of any trekking tour.
We find some relief walking along the Estany of Cap de Port, where the tranquil waters might tempt one to camp, feeling protected from the surrounding peaks.
Final Stretch to Refugio Josep Maria Blanc
As we continue descending, the feeling of nearing our destination grows. However, this descent is long and grueling, taking a toll on our tired legs and toes.
We aim to reach Estany Tort de Peguera, where the Josep Maria Blanc mountain hut awaits us.
This final hour feels both fast and slow, our minds fixated on the comfort and dinner that lie ahead.
Evening at the Refugio Josep Maria Blanc
The sight of Refugio Josep Maria Blanc being supplied by helicopter is a unique and unforgettable image, contrasting with the serene natural surroundings.
The dinner here, the last of our trekking tour, calls for celebration.
We share this evening with other groups, some finishing like us, others just starting their journeys, all creating unforgettable moments.
This trekking tour through Aigüestortes National Park in the Spanish Pyrenees is an experience of physical challenge and breathtaking beauty, making every step worthwhile.
Join me
For those interested in this adventure or any other from my repertoire, please contact me through my travel agency, Iberactive.
Stay safe, relish your time, and show respect for nature.
David Monteiro