Kartxela

Overview

Kartxela ( also indicated on some maps as " Lakartxela " ) is linked to 2 other mountains: Otsogorri 6,309ft ( 1,923m ), and Xardeka 6,211ft ( 1,893m ). Although Otsogorri and Xardeka lay on the French/Spanish border line, Kartxela is located in Spain exclusively. These three summits,located between Orhi and Anie, can be climbed in a single day. Their approach from the north is one of the most interesting of all Euskadi ( Basque Country ), including sightseeing upon the impressive Canyon of Holzarte, and the Pista Waterfall. The rock is limestone, and only limestone. In Euskarraz ( Basque language ), “Gagna” means “Summit”. Don’t forget that you’re at the center of Euskadi: on the north of the border spreads the Province of Zuberroa ( Soule in French ), on the south side spreads the Province of Baja-Nafarroa.

Getting There

From France: From Mauléon or Tardets ( France ), or from Ochagavia ( Spain ), drive to Larrau, village located at the foot of the Port de Larrau ( Larrau Pass, 1573m ). [ A few kilometres downstream Larrau, visit the canyon of Holzarte: park at Logibar ( restaurant, parking ), and follow the big trail ( and many people ) until the footbridge, 150m over the canyon of Oladibia ( Holzarte is the main canyon, made of the junction of the canyons of Oladibia and Olhado). ] From Spain: For the spanish approach you will have to get to the valley of Belagua and the small venta de Juan Pito from Pamplona or Huesca, the biggest closer cities. Follow the road linking both of them (N-240) until the crossing of Venta Carrica. This is a crossing about (will check) sixty kilometers from Pamplona, where you can find a petrol station and the beginning of the road to Sigüés / Salvatierra de Esca / Roncal. Follow this road (NA-137) for thirty kilometers, until you get to Isaba. After Isaba keep going north (NA-1370) towards France (follow signposts "Francia"). It is a fifteen kilometers drive, mainly on the valley floor at first and afterwards by the southern slopes of Lakora. You will find the small mountain restaurant ("Venta") of Juan Pito about two kilometers after beginning the uphill drive, and just by the Venta there is a parking lot.

Red Tape

No red tape.

When To Climb

These low mountains can be climbed all year round, but ice crampons, or snow-shoes may be necessary in winter. Warning: the mist in the high Euskadi can be very thick, and last for hours; never start hiking in poor weather conditions in the forests of Euskadi, there are no signs to help you to find your way. Never go inside the canyons if rain is forecasted, this is the wettest part of the Pyrénées.

Camping

Camping allowed, some huts used by shepherds.

Mountain Conditions

Weather forecast from France: ( 00 33 ) 08 92 68 02 64

Miscellaneous Info

Map : IGN 1447 Nord Books : Miguel ANGULO’ s Pyrénées 1,000 Ascensions

External Links

• El Correo-Route information and route (text in spanish)
• Euskal Mendiak-Karxtela A lot of pictures of this mountain (text in euskera)

Additions and CorrectionsPost an Addition or Correction

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eza - Sep 26, 2005 9:11 am - Voted 10/10

Untitled Comment

Some spanish maps show the name of Kartxela as "Lakartxela". Just posting it to avoid confusions by newcomers to the area.

Rafa Bartolome - Dec 16, 2005 1:55 pm - Voted 10/10

Untitled Comment

I had created some subgoups of Pirineos, you can add this mountain to group "Pirineos: Belagua-Ansó" as well.
And please, change the country to Spain.

Rafa Bartolome - Aug 5, 2010 2:25 pm - Voted 10/10

coordinates of summit

42.95089 N -0.89075 W

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