Grande Fache, Mountain summit at Pyrenees border, France and Spain
Grande Fache is a mountain summit in the Pyrenees standing at about 3000 meters, forming a natural border between France and Spain. The peak can be reached from the Wallon valley on the French side or from the La Sarra marsh area in Sallent de Gállego on the Spanish side.
The first documented ascent took place in 1874 when explorer Henry Russell reached the summit with guide Cauterets Latour during a summer expedition. This early climb helped establish the mountain as a notable destination for mountaineers.
A statue of the Virgin of Lourdes crowns the summit, placed there in 1942 after a pilgrim survived a dangerous fall on the slopes. The monument draws many visitors seeking both spiritual connection and mountain experience.
The climb requires proper mountain gear and experience with alpine terrain due to challenging routes and rocky sections. Summer months from June through September offer the best conditions and most stable weather for attempting the ascent.
The peak displays a distinctive pyramid shape and sits surrounded by several glacial lakes called ibones scattered across the landscape. These natural pools dot the Marcadau, Piedrafita, and Bachimaña cirques in the surrounding terrain.
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