THE HORSESHOE ROUTE, PERAMEA, GERRI AND SORT
Circular route of 48.4 km through the south of Pallars Sobirà
A 48.4 km route that reveals the small villages and the old bridle paths that connected them in the southern sector of Pallars Sobirà, in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees.
The outward journey to Gerri de la Sal follows the right bank of the Noguera Pallaresa river, skirting the valley at mid-level between the Llarvén and Estac mountains. The return journey from Gerri de la Sal to Sort follows the left bank of the valley, continuing along the river's course.
This is a tough and demanding route, both in terms of distance and accumulated elevation gain, recommended only for mountain runners or hikers accustomed to long-distance routes in the Pyrenees.
You'll delve deep into the territory between Sort and Gerri de la Sal, discovering the mountainous landscapes of this transitional zone between the Pre-Pyrenees and the High Pyrenees. On the outward journey, you'll traverse wooded slopes and ancient cobbled paths, with dry-stone walls that once connected the small villages scattered throughout the area. The return journey follows the valley floor, through meadows and pleasant riverside forests.
The best part of the route:
Explore the historic bridle paths of Pallars, with cobbled sections and dry stone walls.
Discover the magic and charm of the small population centers in the area.
Enjoy the tranquility and authenticity of this uncrowded corner of the Catalan Pyrenees.
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Duration:
Full day.
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Total effective time (without stops):
12:55 hours in total. 4:50 hours from Sort to Mencui, 4:40 hours from Mencui to Gerri de la Sal, and 3:25 hours from Gerri de la Sal to Sort.
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Cumulative elevation gain:
2,280m.
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Difficulty:
Moderate. This route is only suitable for mountain runners and hikers in very good physical condition, accustomed to long-distance trails with steep elevation gains. Orientation is also important: in some places, it is difficult to find the right path (which is why the use of a GPS device and the route track are recommended).
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Season:
All year round.
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Material:
Nothing special.
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Cartography:
1. Parc Natural de l'Alt Pirineu. 1:50,000. Alpina Publishing.
2. Ramat de Camins. Ramat de l'Est. 1:50,000. Alpina Publishing.
3. Topographic base of Catalonia 1:25,000. Cartographic and Geological Institute of Catalonia (ICGC).
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Observations:
1. It is a very long route, so it is important to take daylight hours into account.
2. The paths are marked with yellow paint lines and signs at intersections. However, you must be careful with your orientation, as there are some unpredictable paths along the route.
3. We find water sources in the towns of Bressui, Enviny, Montardit, Estac, Balestui, Peramea, Gerri de la Sal and Baro.
4. If we prefer to return to Sort from Gerri by public transport, we can do so by scheduled bus (timetables: www.alsa.es).
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How to get there by car:
The starting point for the excursion is the Hotel Les Brases in Sort. We arrive in Sort via the C-13 highway. The Hotel Les Brases is located on the C-13 highway, just north of the town. There is free parking in front of the hotel.