Before you visit
Camping & bivouacs
Camping in the core is prohibited, including vehicle camping in car parks. A small bivouac tent is permitted from 19:00 to 09:00, over an hour’s walk from the core boundary or motor access; ask about designated areas near refuges.
Official sourceFire & cooking
Open fires are prohibited in the core. Self-contained portable stoves are allowed subject to park conditions; check current fire restrictions and refuge instructions. Permission to bivouac does not allow a campfire.
Official sourceDogs
Dogs are generally prohibited in the core, even on a lead. Explicit exceptions include Gavarnie–hôtel du cirque and certain Cauterets roads and paths. Check the whole route against the official list; assistance dogs also have specific exceptions.
Official sourceAccess & parking
There is no single entrance: choose a valley, then its parking or public transport. Official maps distinguish the core, neighbouring reserves and villages. Check mountain roads and trails separately in winter and after severe weather.
Official sourceActivities & restrictions
Cycling in the core is limited to roads open to public traffic and the specifically designated Somport and Brousset tracks. This does not authorise every walking trail; check an MTB itinerary against the core boundary.
Official sourceActivities & restrictions
The 2026 rules prohibit swimming and activities involving partial or full immersion in the core’s lakes and small lakes. Entering the water partly is also covered; rivers have separate regulations.
Official sourcePublished sources reviewed on 9 September 2026. Temporary closures, fire restrictions and weather may change access; read the park’s latest notices before travelling.
