If you’re passionate about mountains and high-altitude rock climbing, you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, you’ll find all the information you need to tackle one of the most challenging and rewarding climbs in the Atlantic Pyrenees: the Pic du Midi d’Ossau.
We’ll provide you with all the essential details before starting this adventure — from the right gear to accommodation and food. Join us on this journey!
If it’s your first time in high mountain terrain or you want to experience the climb more safely, ascending the Midi d’Ossau with a professional guide is highly recommended.
Climbing with a guide not only increases safety but also provides technical and cultural insights about the area, while optimizing ascent and descent times.
Pic du Midi d’Ossau – An Unforgettable Experience
The Pic du Midi d’Ossau is one of the most iconic, stunning, and majestic mountains in the Atlantic Pyrenees, located near the Spanish border — a must-visit for mountain and nature lovers.
Rising to 2,884 meters above sea level, this peak is formed from remnants of magma in an extinct volcanic chimney.
Although it doesn’t reach 3,000 meters, its pyramidal shape and dark color make it stand out from the surrounding mountains.
Its steep slopes prevent snow accumulation, making it even more striking in winter.
Despite its popularity and occasional rappelling delays, the Pic du Midi d’Ossau offers one of the most classic, challenging, and rewarding climbs in the region, with a breathtaking 360º panoramic view from the summit — an experience truly worth the effort.
What Are the Climbing Options?
The area around the Midi d’Ossau is a paradise for high mountain rock climbers. There are many granite climbing routes available, ranging in difficulty and length. The rock features a wide variety of characteristics, including cracks, dihedrals, slabs, traverses, and overhangs.
There are also easier and more alpine-style activities for those looking for a less technical challenge. These routes are a great training ground for climbers preparing for granite climbs in the Alps or other classic alpine mountaineering adventures.
Preparing for the Ascent
The ascent route to the Midi d’Ossau via the Soum de Pombie and the Souzon Col is a classic and exciting option for mountaineers visiting the Atlantic Pyrenees. It’s recommended to do the climb over two days, summiting on the second day after bivouacking at the base of the first chimney or staying overnight at the Pombie Refuge.
Climbing the Midi d’Ossau via the normal route with a guide requires good physical condition and experience in high mountain rock climbing. The route is challenging, especially the three chimneys after the Souzon Col, with climbing sections up to grades II+ and I+.
The recommended season for the normal route ascent is from May through October, as snow can be present in winter, significantly increasing the technical difficulty and danger of the route. With snow, climbers must be extremely cautious due to potential rockfall and unstable ridgelines.
As for necessary gear, a helmet is essential to protect against falls or falling debris. It’s also recommended to carry a harness, rope, and descending device. Always follow the guide’s instructions closely throughout the ascent.
Accommodation and Meals
For accommodation near the Midi d’Ossau, if you choose to sleep at the Pombie Refuge, it’s advisable to bring a lightweight sleeping bag liner and earplugs, as rooms are shared. You can also explore other interesting lodging options we provide.
Regarding meals, breakfast and dinner are provided at the refuge, but it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks for the climb — such as energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, or energy gels. A picnic lunch can also be arranged to take along for the ascent.
Lastly, be sure to carry all required documentation, including your ID or passport, a valid mountain federation card, and the signed general conditions form.
With all this in mind, climbing the Pic du Midi d’Ossau via the normal route with a guide can be an unforgettable experience for mountain and high-altitude rock climbing enthusiasts.
If you prefer greater comfort, you can book accommodation in Baqueira or Val D’ Aran before or after your ascent. These areas offer full infrastructure for mountaineers, with easy access to technical gear shops, information centers, and natural spaces to help you acclimatize before the adventure.
Besiberri Bright duplex apartment in Val de Ruda at the foot of the slopes at level 1500 of Baqueira
From 370.00€ per night
Garona 4 bedroom apartment at Val de ruda, meters from the ski lift
From 165.00€ per night
Costarjàs Fabulous 75m2 apartment at the foot of the slopes in Cota 1500 of Baqueira-Beret
From 165.00€ per night
Orri Great apartment for 5p at the foot of slopes 1500 of Baqueira-Beret
From 165.00€ per night
How to Get There by Car
To reach the starting point of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau ascent via the normal route by car, take the A-136 road from the town of Sallent de Gállego and continue towards the Formigal ski resort.
After passing Formigal and all the resort parking areas, you will reach the top of El Portalet. From there, descend along the D934 for about 1.5 km until you find the Anéou parking area, near the Araille cabin, where you can park your vehicle.
Keep in mind that this road may be closed in winter due to weather conditions, so it is advisable to check the road status before setting out.
You can also reach the town of Sallent de Gállego by public transport and take a taxi or shuttle service to the starting point of the route.
Conclusion
The Midi d’Ossau area is a paradise for high-altitude rock climbers, offering routes of all levels of difficulty and length.
In this post, we’ve explored the exciting option of ascending the Pic du Midi d’Ossau via the normal route, as well as other climbing opportunities in the Midi d’Ossau area. We’ve shared detailed information on the necessary gear, accommodation and meals, physical preparation, and documentation requirements.
We also highlighted the beauty and majesty of the Atlantic Pyrenees and the thrill and challenge of high mountain rock climbing.
If you’re looking for more fun plans, we invite you to read our article: 7 unique experiences to enjoy in the Aran Valley . Live the most authentic adventure on your holiday — we’ll be waiting for you!
Rent the best accommodation near the top climbing areas in Baqueira and the Aran Valley for your mountain getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Climbing the Midi d’Ossau
What is the best time to climb the Midi d’Ossau?
The best time to climb the Midi d’Ossau is from late spring through autumn, roughly from May to October.
During these months, weather conditions are generally more stable and the rock is free of snow, making the climb safer and more accessible.
Do I need previous experience to climb the Midi d’Ossau?
Yes. While there are more accessible routes like the normal route, good physical condition and some experience in high-altitude rock climbing are essential. For those without technical experience, climbing with a professional guide is highly recommended.
What gear do I need to climb the Midi d’Ossau?
Essential gear includes a helmet, harness, rope, descender device, technical footwear, and appropriate mountain clothing.
It’s also strongly recommended to bring energy snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, and personal documentation such as an ID/passport and a valid mountain federation card.
How do I get to the starting point of the route?
The usual starting point is the Anéou parking area, which can be reached via the D934 road descending from El Portalet, just past Formigal. You can also reach Sallent de Gállego by public transport and take a taxi from there to the trailhead.
Where to sleep before or after the ascent?
You can stay at the Pombie refuge, ideal for resting the night before your climb.
Alternatively, you can choose comfortable accommodation in Baqueira and Val D’Aran, perfect for combining comfort with close proximity to the mountains.