Complete Guide to Climbing Pico Aneto from London

Espartans! Here's all the information you need to conquer Pico Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees. From how to get there from London, to what equipment to bring, routes, costs, and more, this guide has everything you need to prepare for this epic adventure.

How to Get to Pico Aneto from London

Flights from London
The best option is to fly to Barcelona or Zaragoza. Flights usually cost around €50-100 round trip, with affordable airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, or Vueling.
From Barcelona or Zaragoza to Benasque
- Bus from Barcelona: From Estació Nord in Barcelona, there are direct buses to Benasque (around 6 hours travel time). The price is around €25-35 one way.
- Car Rental: Alternatively, you can rent a car from Barcelona (around €30-50 per day), and the drive takes about 4-5 hours.

Benasque is our starting point for the ascent to Aneto. It’s a charming mountain town with all the amenities you might need (outdoor gear shops, restaurants, accommodation).

Refugio de la Renclusa: Our Base Camp

The ascent to Aneto starts from Refugio de la Renclusa, at 2,140 m. From Benasque, you can take a bus to Llanos del Hospital (about a 15-minute ride for €10 round trip), and then it's about a 45-minute hike to the refuge.

Cost of the Refuge: Around €40-50 per night with half board (dinner and breakfast included).
Reservations: It's recommended to book in advance, especially during high season (July and August). Call the refuge or check their website for availability.

Route Plan: Ascent to Aneto

The climb to Pico Aneto is a long day of around 8-10 hours round trip. Here’s a breakdown of the route:

From Renclusa to the Aneto Glacier
The route starts early, around 5 or 6 am, with a gradual ascent over rocky and snowy terrain. You'll reach the glacier, which you'll cross using crampons and an ice axe. This section is spectacular, offering stunning views of snowy peaks and high mountain landscapes.
The Paso de Mahoma
Before reaching the summit, you’ll cross the Paso de Mahoma, a narrow rocky ridge that requires skill and focus. This section isn’t very long but is exposed, so it's important to take it slow and cross carefully.
Aneto Summit (3,404 m)
After the Paso de Mahoma, you reach the summit. The views from the top are breathtaking, with the entire Pyrenean range spread out before you. The sense of achievement is unmatched!
Descent from the Summit to the Refuge
The descent follows the same route as the ascent. Make sure to save some energy for the return, as it can be longer than expected.

Essential Gear for Aneto

Clothing and Footwear
- Mountain Boots: Waterproof with good grip.
- Layered Clothing: A thermal base layer, fleece, windproof, and waterproof jacket.
- Hat, Gloves, and Buff: Essential to protect yourself from the cold and wind.
Technical Equipment
- Crampons and Ice Axe: Needed for the glacier section (available for rent in Benasque if you don’t own them).
- Harness, Rope, and Helmet: Recommended, especially for the Paso de Mahoma.
- Trekking Poles: Helpful for both the ascent and descent.
Other Important Accessories
- Backpack (30-40 liters): To carry your gear, water, and food.
- Headlamp: As you'll be starting before dawn.
- First Aid Kit and Map of the Route: Always important for any contingencies.

Permits and Guides

Permits: No special permit is required to climb Aneto.
Local Guides: If you lack experience in high mountains, it's recommended to hire a guide. They cost around €70-100 per person and ensure a safer ascent.

Best Time to Climb

The best time to climb Aneto is between June and September, when the weather is more stable and there is less snow. July and August are the most popular months, but if you want to avoid crowds, aim for late June or early September.

Estimated Costs of the Trip

Flight London-Barcelona: €50-100 (round trip).
Bus or Car Rental Barcelona-Benasque: €25-35 by bus or €30-50 per day for a rental car.
Refugio de la Renclusa (half board): €40-50 per night.
Technical Equipment Rental: €30-50 (crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness).
Food, snacks, and local transport: €20-30.

Total Estimated Cost: €150-200 per person (not including guide or personal transportation).

Tips for a Successful Ascent

Start Early: The route is long, and it’s better to descend before noon.
Acclimatization: If possible, spend a day in Benasque beforehand and do some light hiking to acclimate.
Bring Enough Food and Water: Energy snacks like nuts, bars, and chocolate are perfect.
Respect the Mountain and Work as a Team: Support each other and go at a comfortable pace for everyone.

With this complete guide, you have everything you need to prepare for the climb to Pico Aneto. It will be an unforgettable experience, and together as Spartans, we’ll reach the summit! Get ready, pack your gear, and see you at the heights of the Pyrenees!