The Beret Flats were at one time the scenario for witches and sorcerers practicing the dark arts on this great mountain plateau at 1850 meters. Here one is witness to significant contrasts from the snow covered mountains and skiers in the winter to the summer pastures full of livestock grazing gingerly in the sun. The area is exceptionally located in that it is the natural border between the Atlantic facing slope to north and Mediterranean slope to the south. The itinerary goes down along the side of the Noguera Pallaresa River (1) and goes through black pine tree forests and pastures until reaching the refuge and Montgarri Sanctuary which are located in an open and sunny spot next to the river. The return portion of the journey is on the forest path on the shady side of the river in the fir tree forest of the Dossau Mountain.

Detailed Route:

The starting point is the car park of the Beret Flats to the left of the large warehouse. You will quickly locate the GR sign. The trail which you will take is well defined, wide and easy. The trail goes through pastures and later enters the forest. You will cross several streams, the Parròs Cabin and the Horcalh River after which you will reach the Es de Cabau barn. (1) Here the trail narrows a bit, but shortly you will arrive to the refuge and Montgarri Sanctuary. Go across the bridge and continue until you reach the ruins of houses of long ago from an old village. This route unites with the trail which comes up from Alòs d’Isil (2). Go to the right. Further on there is a car park indicating the entrance to the Sanctuary from the other side. When leaving the Sanctuary you will continue going up progressively along the forested mountainsides of the Beret Flats.

Recommendations:

The Uelhs of Garona and the Noguera Pallaresa River along with the incredible panoramic views from the Beret access road. The menhirs of the Beret Flat and an excursion to the area of Orri where the Malo river appears and disappears are worth visiting. In Montgarri, if you cross the Noguera Pallaresa you will find some marvellous ponds and waterfalls.

Curiosities:

The image of the Montgarri Virgen was discovered by a shepherd who watched as one of his cattle knelt down each day in the same spot at which time he decided to go investigate. To his surprise he discovered the image and Montgarri was named the patron saint of the shepherds and to whom they built a chapel. The Sanctuary was later built.