In Sarrance, the morning mist still hangs low over the water of the Gave d’Aspe. The monastery falls quietly behind you, and ahead lies the valley, narrowing little by little.
The route climbs and drops all day, through woodland and along steep mountainsides. With over 900 metres of ascent it’s hard work, and the descents will make themselves felt in your legs too. Allow plenty of time: you’ll be on the move for more than 8 hours. The landscape grows wilder the further you go, and the air feels fresher.
You reach Urdos with heavy legs. A handful of houses against the mountainside, the river alongside, and above them the mountains you have to cross tomorrow. Rucksack off, boots off.