By car
A car is by far the easiest way to explore the valleys, villages and trailheads. Distances look short on the map but mountain roads are slow: allow extra time and fuel.
Crossing the border
Main crossings include the Col du Somport tunnel, the Portalet pass, the Bielsa–Aragnouet tunnel, the Vielha tunnel area via the Pont du Roy, Andorra's Envalira pass and tunnel, the Cerdanya, and the coastal routes at Hendaye and Le Perthus. Border controls between France and Spain are usually light but can occur; Andorra has customs checks.
Mountain passes
High passes such as the Tourmalet, Aubisque, Portet and Port de Balès are closed in winter, typically from November to May or June. Check current status before you set off.
Winter driving
From November to March, some French mountain areas require winter tyres or carrying snow chains or socks. Spanish and Andorran roads may require chains in snow. Rental cars may need winter equipment added.
Buses and trains
Regional buses link stations with valleys, such as Lourdes–Cauterets and Lourdes–Luz–Gavarnie (seasonal), Toulouse–Andorra and Barcelona–Andorra. Trains reach Latour-de-Carol, Puigcerdà, Jaca, Canfranc, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Ax-les-Thermes, and the Train Jaune crosses the Cerdagne.
National park shuttles
In busy periods, cars are restricted in the Ordesa valley (shuttle from Torla), Aigüestortes (4x4 taxis from Espot and Boí) and some French sites like the Néouvielle road. Plan around shuttle timetables.
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