PRAT D'AGUILÓ (2010m.)-LLUIS ESTASEN (1640m.)

Positive denivelation: 470 m
Negative denivelation: 810 m
Hours: 3 h

Prat d’Aguilo is a popular base for tackling the many climbing routes along the imposing north face of the Cadi. Our route, the local path PR124, otherwise known as the Route of the Reapers, takes us up steeply through meadow and scree to the Pas dels Gosolans (2.243 m). The change in scenery is dramatic, as we now encounter a sparsely vegetated alpine environment. Look out for golden eagle and smaller birds of prey.

Enjoy too a first close look of ever-impressive Pedraforca to the south. To reach the mountain we have to cross the ridge Serra Pedragosa and descend to El Collell (1.845 m). From here a forest track winds its way down to the mountain refuge Lluis Estasen. Note again the striking changes in vegetation as we descend: Spanish pine and Scots pine, larch and, further down in the Gresolet Valley beechwoods.