Cirque de Gavarnie is a popular hiking destination in the Pyrenees, and one of its most beautiful. Called "the colosseum of nature" by one Victor Hugo, the Cirque is a ring of sheer granite mountain walls enclosing a picture-perfect green valley. It's astounding before you add in three-tier Gavarnie Falls pouring over a 922-foot drop.he highest falls, la Grand Cascade de Gavarnie, has two tiers, plunges 1,385 feet and is the tallest in France.
The greatest pleasure comes from hiking the trail to the top, smelling the scents, listening to the sounds and marveling at the changing scenery. The trail ascends gradually and is a fairly easy, 1- or 1.5 hour hike one way. Donkeys and horses are available for hire if you prefer that mode of travel.
At the top, a casual restaurant awaits.
