The Breche de Roland is a massive gap in a wall of rock in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. This stunning piece of geology, the Breche de Roland should not be confused with the Breche de Ronaldo, the massive gap between the incisors of the talented Brazilian footballer.
The easier trail is now a little bit harder as poor drivers have to leave their cars at Le Col de Tentes, about a kilometre from the Porte de Boucharo. Here you can see the reason why.
A slightly hazy view of the Vallée des Especières with a view down towards Gavarnie.
Once the Porte de Boucharo has been reached, the trail starts. Amazing views to the North (of Le Taillon and other mountains that form the natural border between France and Spain) and to the South (with the Pic de Tentes and zillions of other peaks).
No worries about losing this trail. It is common to hear marmots whistling to warn other marmots of your arrival. I was about to shoot one – with his camera – when a group of Spanish tourists arrived with their dog. After a brief conversation, the marmots had disappeared.
The only slightly difficult part of the route, following the path of the river up between the boulders. This section is more exciting in Spring when there
There are chains fixed to the rocks to help you up – or at least to stop you slipping on the wet rocks.
The Glacier de Taillon – looking a lot smaller than it does on my nine-year-old map. When will an American President sign up to Kyoto?
The amazing view towards Gavarnie. Shame about the haze.
This is the Refuge des Sarradets with a view of the Breche behind. It seemed half of France and Spain had decided to go there that day.
This is the glacier in front of the Breche. Despite appearances there is a safe path across the glacier.
What are those sheep eating? Snow perhaps?
A final view of the Breche de Roland as the weather improved. Look closely and you can see people hiking across the glacier. Not a difficult hike but dangerous when the (frequent) fogs arrive within minutes.
Practical Information
Sadly the bus to Gavarnie from Luz only runs in Summer. So you will have to cycle up to the Porte de Boucharo at other times of the year.
Jeremy, thanks for this page. I am hoping to spend a week in the Pyrenees in early May, doing some walking and photography (with a geological emphasis). Can’t wait to La Breche – just hope some snow has melted. If there are any other walks you know of that you think i should do while I am there…
DCM
Did you go in early May and what were the conditions and weather?
I went in Autumn and the conditions were fine. In early May you can expect more snow and don’t forget the fog can appear at any time of year.
Whatever you do, make this trek. Don’t be tempted to do it in poor weather! Why! The scenery is so spectacular it would be a great shame to attempt it when you can’t see anything properly. Another great walk starts from Lac Gloriette and climbs up to the Horquette d’Alaine with a breathtaking view of the cirque and the surrounding mountains.
To get to Lac Gloriette, take the road out of Gedre, to Cirque d’Estaube. Drive up to the lac which provides water for a hydro-electric station