Getaway from Núria to Coll de Carançà

This journey is part of one of the most classic excursions in the Catalan Pyrenees: the route that connects Núria and Ulldeter, a spectacular route that crosses some of the most emblematic landscapes of the high mountains of Ripollès.

Initially, the plan was to complete the entire route to Ulldeter, but the weather forecast wasn't favorable, and in the mountains, knowing how to adapt your plans is just as important as having the desire to continue. Therefore, I opted for a shorter and safer version: starting from Núria, reaching the Coll de Carançà and returning along the same path.

Although we didn't complete the planned route, the journey was well worth it. The path allows you to enjoy the high mountain environment of Núria, with stunning views, rugged terrain, and that feeling of being in a completely different landscape as you gain altitude.

And this is one of the great things about mountain routes: the initial objective may change, but the path continues to offer moments and landscapes that make the excursion equally worthwhile.

I stayed at the "Els Caçadors" in Ribes de Freser, an ideal place to start the hike early the next morning. In the morning, I took the Núria rack railway from Ribes de Freser, a spectacular journey that climbs gradually through the valley and passes through Queralbs before reaching the Vall de Núria mountain resort. A comfortable and very special way to start the day, as the landscape transforms with each ascent.

Leaving Núria, take the path that climbs to the right, towards the Vall de les Molleres. It's well signposted and easy to follow. The path runs parallel to the stream until, at one point, you need to cross it via a small bridge and continue along the other side of the river. A little further up, turn right towards the Coll de Noucreus. Cows graze everywhere, adding an even more romantic touch to the landscape. The climb becomes increasingly steep; Núria is now far behind, and the peak still seems quite distant.

There comes a time when you have two options: continue along the little path, which deviates a little to the right, turning more but is easier, or go up the mountain without following any path (crossing a field). The latter is more direct, but much harder. I chose the last option and, honestly, the last section was a bit difficult.

The Coll de Noucreus is truly impressive. Nine crosses are scattered across the summit, adorned with flags and tied-up garments that flutter in the wind. The silence is amazing. On one side, you can see the path taken to Núria; on the other, a chain of mountains dotted with lakes leaves visitors speechless. To the left, the Pic de l'Infern rises majestically.

I continue along the ridge towards the Coll de Carançà, on a section that forms part of the famous GR-11, the trail that crosses the Pyrenees from one side to the other. The path offers spectacular views, and as I progress, the Negre and Blau lakes appear to the left, nestled between the mountains. A breathtaking high mountain landscape, the kind that invites you to stop every now and then to admire it. Just before reaching the Coll de la Vaca pass, I turn around to return to Núria.

It's a beautiful trail with no chance of getting lost. It's perfectly signposted and has sensational views.

If you do the entire hike (from Núria to Ulldeter), the Hotel "La Coma" offers a service to pick you up at the refuge and take you to the hotel for the night. The following day, they will return you to the Hotel "Els Caçadors" in Ribes de Freser, where you left your car the night before.

It's a shame the weather forecast wasn't good. I still need to do the whole route. It's a wonderful "raconet".

If you need and/or want help organizing your getaway, don't hesitate to send me an mail!

6 hours walking at a leisurely pace.

The hike is of medium difficulty with some tough sections.

No problem.