Muntanyes de Llibertat
Muntanyes de Llibertat
Hut to Hut route - private hiking trip
The Mountains of Freedom route is a 4-day circular trail that blends nature, history, and physical endurance across the Pyrenees. This trek retraces paths used during the Spanish Civil War and World War II by refugees, including Jews fleeing the Holocaust and Catalan republicans escaping to France.
Spanning the Alt Pirineu Natural Park (Catalonia) and the Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Ariégeoises (France), the route offers a unique experience through forests, waterfalls, glacial lakes, and alpine landscapes.
Technical Details
Type of route
CircularTotal Distance
65 kmCumulative Elevation Gain
±4800 mDuration
4 days / 4 nightsPhysical demand
HighTechnical difficulty
Medium-highBest season
June to SeptemberHighlights
Ars Waterfall, glacial lakes, exile monuments in Tavascan and Aulus Les Bains
Itinerary
Barcelona/Toulousse - Tavascan
Transfer from Barcelona or Toulouse by private transport to Tavascan. The journey, which takes approximately 3-4 hours, crosses idyllic landscapes that introduce the Pyrenees. Arrival at the village and accommodation. Free time to explore the village and prepare for the activities.
Transfer of 220-250 km (duration: 3-4 hours).
Meet the mountain guide and short briefing about next days.
Dinner included.
Tavascan - Certascan Refuge
Distance: 16 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,790 m / -480 m
Estimated Time: 8 hours
Description:
The route begins in Bordes de Graus, a picturesque area surrounded by meadows and traditional pastoral huts. The trail gradually ascends through forested paths, opening to stunning high-mountain landscapes. The Certascan Refuge sits beside its namesake lake, the largest glacial lake in the Pyrenees, surrounded by towering peaks.
Highlights: Alpine meadows and the majestic Certascan Lake with its crystal-clear waters, perfect for enjoying the natural surroundings.
Certascan Refuge - Aulus Les Bains
Distance: 16.9 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: +550 m / -2,020 m
Estimated Time: 7-8 hours
Description:
From the Certascan Refuge, the trail descends progressively towards the French side of the Pyrenees. The route offers panoramic views of glacial lakes and dense forests. A highlight is the spectacular Ars Waterfall, one of the most beautiful in the Pyrenees, cascading down multiple tiers. The stage ends in the charming village of Aulus Les Bains, known for its thermal spa.
Highlights: Ars Waterfall, memorial sites dedicated to exile, and the peaceful charm of Aulus Les Bains.
Aulus Les Bains - L'Escolan Refuge
Distance: 16.6 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: +950 m / -940 m
Estimated Time: 8 hours
Description:
This stage blends historic trails with natural landscapes. It begins with a climb through beech forests, leading to more open high-altitude terrain. The tranquility of the surroundings provides an opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by those who historically crossed these paths seeking freedom. The L'Escolan Refuge is located in a serene setting, perfect for rest.
Highlights: The calm of the forest and panoramic views from the mountain passes.
L'Escolan Refuge - Bordes de Graus
Distance: 17.3 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,620 m / -1,025 m
Estimated Time: 9 hours
Description:
The final stage ascends to the Certascan Pass, offering sweeping views of the Pyrenean valleys. The descent back to Bordes de Graus combines technical sections with dreamy landscapes. Returning to the starting point concludes this journey with mixed emotions of physical accomplishment and the historical significance of the route.
Highlights: Pyrenean panoramas and the serene return to Bordes de Graus.
ienced. The return to Tavascan marks the end of an unforgettable journey.
Highlights: Pyrenean valleys and historic trails.
Tavascan
Rest day in Tavascan.
Dinner included in a local restaurant near Tavascan.
Tavascan - Barcelona / Toulousse
Description: Return to Barcelona or Toulouse after a week of intense activities. Time will be provided for a final leisurely walk around the village before the transfer.
Transfer of 220-250 km (duration: 3-4 hours).
- 3 nights in a hotel with half board (breakfast and dinner) + 1 picnics
- 3 nights in a mountain Hut with half board + 3 picnics
- 1 dinner at a local restaurant
- All necessary transfers for the itinerary, by private transport.
- Mountain guide accompaniment throughout the trip.
- Ratio: 1 guide / 8 clients max.
- Accident and public liability insurance
Required Gear: Mountain boots, technical clothing, sun protection, and a light backpack. Carry sufficient water and energy snacks.
Fitness Level: Suitable for individuals with mountain experience and good physical condition.
Tavascan Village: Hotel Llacs de Cardós or Hotel Estanys Blaus**
Begin your adventure in Tavascan, where you can gather information and prepare for the trek. This is an excellent spot to acclimate to the altitude and surroundings of the Alt Pirineu Natural Park.
Certascan Refuge: Located near Certascan Lake in a high-mountain setting, it's perfect for enjoying the Pyrenean landscape.
Le Presbytère Refuge: In Aulus-les-Bains, France, near the border, offering a cozy atmosphere with views of the French Pyrenees.
L'Escolan Refuge: In Bidous, Ariège region, the final refuge before completing the circuit, surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery.
Booking
Request your itinerary here
If you need more info, don’t hesitate to contact using this link. We will be happy to help you!
