The Rise of Mountain Refuge Seekers
Thousands of people are seeking refuge in the Pyrenees for days, driven by a desire to disconnect and experience nature
The Pyrenees mountains are witnessing a surge in visitors seeking refuge for days, with many refugios reporting full capacity for much of the year. This trend has led to a growth in overnight stays, with the 13 refugios managed by the Federación de Entidades Excursionistas de Catalunya (FEEC) seeing an increase from 22,057 in 2019 to 24,000 in 2025.
The Changing Face of Mountain Tourism
The profile of mountain visitors has changed significantly over the years. Previously, only experienced mountaineers would venture into the high mountains, but now people from all walks of life are seeking refuge in the Pyrenees. Women, foreigners, families, and individuals without prior experience are among those drawn to the mountains. According to Marinella Mosquera, responsible for Cavalls del Vent, one of the most popular travesías in the Pyrenees, the public is now more generalist, seeking to live an experience rather than just climb a mountain.
Seeking Solace in Nature
So, what drives people to seek refuge in the mountains? For some, it's about disconnecting from the constant stimuli of city life and finding a sense of freedom. Jordi Miquel Torres Muñoz, a 52-year-old mountaineer, explains that he doesn't go to the mountains to disconnect, but to order his thoughts. The mountains offer a space for meditation, where the only distraction is the path and one's own thoughts. Moshe Mizhari, founder of Yépalo, a community that organizes hiking trips from Barcelona, observes that people seek a break from their daily routine, a physical challenge, and a chance to connect with others.
The Allure of Mountain Refugios
Mountain refugios have become an integral part of the experience, offering a unique space for people to share meals, stories, and conversations with strangers. These refugios are not hotels, but rather simple shelters with shared rooms and bathrooms, limited hot water, and no wifi. Despite the basic amenities, people are drawn to the sense of community and camaraderie that refugios provide. As Narcís Francàs, an experienced excursionist, notes, refugios are one of the few places where people can truly disconnect and be themselves, without the distractions of modern life.
The Debate Over Refugio Comfort
The growth in popularity of mountain refugios has sparked a debate about whether they should offer more comforts. Miquel Sánchez, the guardian of Ventosa i Calvell, argues that the incomodidad is part of the experience, and that refugios should not strive to be like hostels. However, he acknowledges that refugios have adapted to meet new needs, particularly in terms of food. The question remains whether refugios should provide wifi, with some arguing that it would detract from the sense of community and contemplation that these spaces offer.
