city guide

The best waterfalls in Gavarnie

A hand-picked guide to 1 of the most stunning waterfalls in Gavarnie. Each entry below has our personal notes, photos, driving directions and the practical detail you need to plan a visit — from parking and hike lengths to swimming rules and the best time of year to go.

#1 · 422 m drop

Gavarnie Falls

Gavarnie · Occitanie · France

The Gavarnie Cirque hike is truly unforgettable. This massive glacial cirque, carved out by retreating glaciers, forms a gigantic semi-circular cliff “amphitheatre” about 6 km in diameter, with a vertical drop of up to 1,500 metres. It is also home to the highest single-drop waterfall (Gavarnie Falls) in Europe (423 metres).

We took a bus that passed through several small mountain villages, and after about an hour and a half, we arrived at the site.

See maps, safety & photos for Gavarnie Falls

Safety first

Stay safe at every waterfall

Wet rocks, hidden currents and fast-changing weather catch out experienced hikers every year. Read our quick safety guide before you head out.

Read safety tips