Refugi Mont Roig – Cabane de Marterat

(S). From the Mont-Roig refuge, follow the path down into the valley (a somewhat steep descent along the spillway of the Estany de Llavera). Reach the Lo Fangassalau hut (at a place called La Pleta de lo Fangassal).

(1) Here there are two options:
- an option I was unable to take due to bad weather (see ‘Practical Information’).
- continue the descent; this is the route shown on the map, losing altitude and passing through gradually changing vegetation. Cross wooded areas to reach Pleta Palomera.

(2) Carry on, cross the Riu del Port, then head due south to join a wide track at a hairpin bend.

(3) Take this track, turning almost 180° to the left; this is the Cami del Port de Tavascan. You’ll reach a car park with a small shelter.

(4) Continue due north to reach the northern tip of the Estany del Port, the point where the two routes meet.

(5) Then take the footpath that follows the track and complete the short climb to reach the Port de Marterat (or Port de Tavascan), the French-Spanish border.

(6) Then begin the descent to reach the Cabane de Marterat, today’s stop (E).

(E) Marterat Hut: comfortable, renovated in September 2008; it is a safe shelter, equipped with a small auxiliary heater; sleeps nine. A little paradise!

(1) Alternative route: take the path on the left leading to the Estanyet de Mollàs, then leave this path on the left for another path that climbs north-west, following the spillway of the Estanys de la Riberata (Riu de la Riberata). Once you reach the lakes, walk along their right-hand side, heading due east to reach the Col de la Riberata (2,391 m) further up. Then descend to the Grand Estany de Mariola (2,296 m), walk along its right-hand side to descend to the southern tip of the Estany del Port, or cross the Col de Montarenyo (2,351 m). Reach the lake of the same name below, then descend due east, following the spillway of the small lake to the northern tip of the Estany del Port. From here, join the (5)

Mariole Spring further down the path, below the Marterat hut.