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about this tRip

The Freedom Trail Across the Pyrenees is an amazing trekking experience following the trail once used by French Jews escaping the occupation of France by the Nazi during World War II. We will follow the same path through alpine landscapes with high-altitude cols (Port de Guiló), lakes in valleys carved by ancient glaciers and year-round snowcaps. The Alt Pirineu natural park is the biggest natural park in Catalonia, located in the Catalan Pyrenees, east of the famous Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici national park. It is bounded by France to the north, by Andorra to the east, and by the rest of Catalonia to the south and west.

Altitude range: 2000 - 4000m

Activity level

5 days of historic trekking across the Pyrenees. Stunning views combined with a rich history of survival against the odds. 

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Discover the itinerary, where you’ll be staying and more below

Trip overview

All about this trip

We have a saying in EverTrek that life is "All About The Journey" and this trek combines this motto with our love of trekking. The Freedom Trail follows in the footsteps of the Jewish people who escaped against the odds by walking on foot over the Mighty Pyrenees.

The freedom trail across the Pyrenees takes place in the Alt Pirineu Natural Park and the Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Ariégeoises. We will follow the same path the Henle family used to escape from Aulus-les-Bains in France during the time of the Nazi occupation of France. The trek takes you through alpine landscapes with high-altitude cols (Port de Guiló), lakes and valleys carved by ancient glaciers and surrounded by year-round snowcapped peaks.

The Alt Pirineu natural park is the biggest natural park in Catalonia, located in the Catalan Pyrenees, east of the famous Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici national park. It is bounded by France to the north, by Andorra to the east, and by the rest of Catalonia to the south and west.

Catalonia’s highest peaks are located in this park, as well as the biggest natural lake on the southern slopes of the Pyrenees, the Certascan lake. The peak of Pica d’Estats at 3143m is the highest peak in Catalonia. The Alt Pirineu natural park has 87 lakes (estanys in Catalan) and 94 small lakes (‘estanyets’), and is a little less crowded than better known Aigüestortes national park.

Above the Alt Pirineu N.P., but in France, there is the Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Ariégeoises, located in the Ariège Department, in the Occitania region. In this area there are many remarkable lakes, such as l’étang de Lers, the Bethmale lake, and the lakes of the Bassiès cirque. Among the most admired massifs are Mont Valier and the Montcalm massif.

Your trek here will be guided by an enthusiastic local UIMLA guide who is an expert in the history, culture, geography, flora and Romanesque art of the area are guaranteed to leave you with amazing memiories and a truly EPIC experience,

What's included in this tour?

Items that are included in the cost of the tour price
  • Airport Pick-up and Drop-off
  • All accommodations for the 5 day itinerary
  • All overland transfers
  • All Trekking and climbing permits
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
  • All accommodation whilst on trek (Hut/mountain refuge)
  • Filtered water on the entire trek 
  • Experienced climbing and trekking guides and all support staff 
  • EverTrek Trip Planner 
  • EverTrekker T-shirt & Neck Buff
  • 15% discount with Cotswold Outdoor

What's not included in this tour?

Items that are not included in the cost of the tour price
  • International flight to Barcelona
  • Travel visa
  • Personal expenses including soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, and beverages
  • Climbing gear (Ice axe, helmet, harness, crampons and crampon compatible boots) You can hire these locally on arrival)
  • Your travel insurance that covers Helicopter Evacuation
  • Any other extended trips and accommodation
  • Tips for guides and support staff
  • Day 1

    Arrive in the Pyrenees

    We reccomend arriving in Barcelona nice and early as we aim to leave Barcelona no later than 15:00. Once you have exited the airport you will be picked up by your guide (the friendly guy holding the EverTrek sign) and when all of the group has arrived we will begin the 4 to 5 hour scenic drive from Barcelona to Tavascan where you will spend the night.

     

     

  • Day 2

    Tavascan to Bidous Via the Tavascan Pass

    We start walking after a short 10-minute drive and our trek will lead to the Estany del Port and over the Tavascan Pass (2,216m) into France. This was a critical path during the Spanish Civil War, as well, used by Republican soldiers and citizens fleeing from General Franco. After descending roughly 1,620 meters to Bidous, we will stay the night. We will cover 17.3km today, with a total increase in elevation of 1,025 meters and a duration of 9.5 hours.

    Distance: 17.3km – Elevation gain: 850m – Elevation lost: 1500m – Duration: about 7.5 hours, including breaks.

  • Day 3

    Bidous to Aulus-les-Bains

    This is a moderate day by Pyrenees standards and it includes a charming walk through the deciduous forest of the Parc Naturel Regional des Pyrenees Ariegoises in France. We will follow the famous GR 10 trail and cross some of the most beautiful woods of the Parc Naturel regional des Pyrénées Ariégoises. We will then reach our overnight spot at Aulus-les-Bains (750m) which is best known for its hot springs.

    Aulus-les-Bains will provide us an opportunity to visit the Memoire et Histoire Vivante d´Aulus-les-Bains and further learn about and discuss the circumstances of WWII, the fates of the Jewish families in Aulus who attempted to flee to Spain, and the German impact on the isolated village.

    Distance: 16.6km – Elevation gain: 940m – Elevation lost: 943m – Duration: about 7.25 hours, including breaks.

  • Day 4

    Return to Catalonia

    Undoubtedly, this is the more challenging leg of the trek. During the first part of the leg we will cross awesome beech forests full of raspberries. Then, we will arrive at the popular Ars cascade (1340m), The cascade has 3 waterfalls (the highest is 110m high!). and considered some of the most beautiful falls in the Pyrenees. From there, we will reach Catalonia at the Port de Guilló pass and enjoy the stunning views of mountain and lakes.

    After a 45-minute drive we will reach Tavascan, where we will stay overnight.

  • Day 5

    Return to Barcelona and flight home

    After breakfast we say goodbye to the Freedom Trail and the Pyrenees and head back to Barcelona for the flight home.

Accommodation

Where you'll be staying during this trip

We will enjoy two nights in a hotel in Tavascan, and two nights in gîte d'étape.

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We Love Our
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Here’s what some of our awesome customers had to say
Where do I begin..ease of booking a trek, fantastic communication, calm advice and the best on line community.

l can't emphasis enough the brilliance of been able to move a trip for free if circumstances dictate.

My trek from stepping from the plane was well planned and supported. The trek itself ( Annapurna Base Camp) was one of the best experiences ever. Our guides and porters were superb, knowledgeable and very accommodating - going over and above if anyone needed extra support.

The trip was life changing and I'm going back for more with team EverTrek
Tina Barratt
07:29 11 Jun 22
I was scared to trade, because I have been scammed many times, but I had to take one last chance because I heard Lauren was a very honest lady , so I gave it one last trial wow to my greatest surprise what I have heard about her was correct, today through Lauren Jordan I have been able to get back all I had lost and earned even more, contact her for the best investment services and you will not be disappointed, I invested $1,000 and got $14,600 in 5days
You can contact her directly.
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +13105651441
Facebook: Lauren Jordan (Trade Expert)
Blessing David
12:36 20 Jul 21
I could not recommend Evertrek enough! They went above and beyond from the very moment I called to enquire right the way through until the very moment I arrived back home.

We happened to be stuck in Nepal for an additional 10 days due to the country going into lockdown and Evertrek worked tirelessly every single day to ensure not only were we in the loop with what was going on but also just to make sure we were comfortable, happy and OK!

They don't feel like your typical corporate company, the entire team is super friendly and make you feel like pals! Something quite important to me and they showed in every single way is that they truly care for all their staff, as soon as the Sherpas and guides lost pretty much all work for this season they set up a justgiving page to help support their families! They doing everything with love and care both for their customers and their team!!

Ok, I could go on! Bottom line is, if you are looking for some trekking adventures, look no further. Just go and book it, you will not regret it!

Thank you for reminding me why I love travelling and trekking so much, now you have awoken it I have lots of planning to do for 2021 hehe!! ❤️
Caz Thompson
13:52 20 Apr 20
Professional travel company
They were fantastic and went out their way to support me when I was stuck in Nepal due to the Coronavirus lockdown
I would highly recommend this company to any trekkers looking for a travel company.
I will definitely be using this company again in the future.
Paul Brigden Snr
18:16 17 Apr 20
After months of research I chose Evertrek as the company to lead me on a once in a lifetime trip to Everest base camp. It is by far the best decision I have ever made. The organisation was second to non and nothing was left to chance, the accommodation, the guides, Sherpas and porters were amazing. However our group went at the start of the Coronovirus outbreak and on return to Lukla we were in a country in Lockdown, this is were Evertrek became invaluable, as other trekkers were stuck EverTrek’s people in Nepal came into there own, they organised flight to Kathmandu and when stuck in Kathmandu they found the very best hotel and kept us informed constantly as did the Evertrek guys back home. They never left us alone until we were at the airport.
Nothing was to much for the guys in the UK or Kathmandu, if you are thinking about this trip there is only one company to consider EVERTREK 110%
David Armour
18:00 17 Apr 20
I have taken advantage of the 10 pound deposit to secure a place to Base camp October 2021!
It's only taken 30 years to to finally realize this dream!
The contact has been brilliant with the EverTrek team!
Thanks Guys.
Now to get into training!
Tony Legg
08:25 16 Apr 20
Evertrek are a fantastic, they support you, are very knowledgeable. The service that I have received is second to none and I can not fault it at all, it’s first class all the way. The booking process is easy, they are very knowledgeable and I can’t wait to to go Everest, I know it will be the best experience of my life. I will do other trips with them, as I know I am in the best hands, you could not ask more more from the team. Amazing service and very supportive always!
Maria Millgate
21:14 14 Apr 20
Personal attention is second to none
Dave Hampson
11:54 07 Apr 20
I traveled to EBC this October and would really recommend Evertrek. Being my first adventure holiday, it was reassuring to have such a supportive team with lots of information, advice and kit recommendations prior to departure.

Having little things like filtered water and meals included in the cost (I saw another group having to queue to pay for breakfast) might seem trivial but it meant we didn't have to worry about running out of money on the trek - and they treat their guides and sherpas (who were top class and couldn't do enough for you) with consideration and respect.

I always felt well looked after throughout my time in Nepal, and they put a great deal of effort into ensuring that the holiday went smoothly such as rearranging flights, and adapted to any issues that arose.

Evertrek made it a great holiday. I met some fun people, have some great memories and lots of photos! You even get a free bag, medal and certificate!
Greg Dow
21:02 03 Dec 19
Just travelling back from an amazing EBC trip with Evertrek. I've travelled with a lot of other adventure travel companies in the past but have to say Evertrek has been the best. From the easy booking process and pre departure info and support, to the amazing local Kathmandu
team, guides, sherpas, porters and yak men in Nepal I cant fault Evertrek. If you are thinking about a trip just do it. You wont regret it. And you wont regret choosing Evertrek either. I'm already looking at other trips and not even home yet!
Seonaid Baird
07:56 11 Nov 19
Absolutely first class, from when I first booked knowing nothing about hiking at altitude, right the way through the trip itself. Everything has been handled with the utmost professionalism and the entire team has been incredibly helpful, knowledgeable and hardworking. Our guide, Padam, and his team are worth their weight in gold. Could not recommend Evertrek enough.
Dani Wain
04:19 19 Oct 19
Not been to EBC yet but have booked to go with them next March.
I’ve just returned from a fantastic training weekend with them in the Brecon Beacons. It was wet and windy but Evertrek didn’t disappoint, . From start to finish, the experience was great. Both Andy( the owner) and his trusty sidekick Dave (the painted Yeti) were there to make us feel welcome. They were both hands on, and their knowledge was second to none.
I can’t wait to actually go to Everest, and after this weekend I feel assured that I’ll be in great hands.
Nothing was too much trouble, and it was great see the way that Andy and Dave talk about Everest with such a passion.
Well done guys
Bribri Mcalpine
19:35 11 Aug 19
Wouldn’t hesitate to book again with Evertrek 👍🏼👍🏼🏔🏔😍
Lena Trafford
21:13 21 May 19
This trip was exceptional from start to finish. Has to be one of the best run and professional companies I have come across. Before we even started we were sent weekly emails and lots of correspondence to get us excited for the trip. Any questions and worries were answered straight away some even by video replies!! The actual Everest base camp trip itself was one of the best experiences of my life however very tough! Everything from start to finish was run perfectly. I couldn’t have asked for more from Andy, Dave and the Sherpas they provided! A 5 star service all round!
Lee Wardle
19:03 07 May 19
Still to go to Basecamp, but they have been very helpful with the many questions I have asked them about our up coming trek.
Stewart Strang
15:54 01 Feb 19
I had the most fantastic trip in Nepal, all thanks to evertrek. Andy was so so helpful from the moment I first rang about going. Nothing was ever to much, always had a speedy reply- which was reassuring when I was stressing about equipment. The training weekend that they offer is also incredibly helpful and really gets you ready for your holiday.
Our guide in Nepal, Bhim and his team, were absolutely fantastic, they worked unbelievably hard, you never wanted for anything. (Watch them, they cheat at cards!!haha)
As for the trek, the negotiations of getting to Lukla were a bit up in the air...but that's just Nepal! Go with the flow. But once we got there, it was absolutely brilliant, everyday the scenery was beautiful and I never felt like they expected to much from you. Plenty of rest time and tea stops! I personally really enjoyed the food (I lived on veggi curry and rice-you get seconds :D) and thought all the accommodation was fine!!
Basically an all round incredible trip, there wasn't a second I didn't enjoy!!! Highly recommend Andy and the team. Would defo do another trek with them :D
Lucy Groves
19:39 21 Jan 19
Recently returned from our EBC trek and I can’t fault Evertrek, right from the minute you sign up Andy is giving advice and replying to any queries you might have. Special thanks to Phurba and Harry our guides over there, they keep a eye on you and don’t let you go to quickly up the mountain and look after you. If you are thinking about doing it just go for it you won’t regret it . Awesome
Douglas Smith
13:09 27 Oct 18
I had the most amazing trip to Everest Base Camp with Evertrek, thank you Andy for being the font of all knowledge about this trip and for Rishi our guide for looking after us. It is probably the most challenging holiday I have ever done but it was worth every moment and the scenery was just stunning. Nepal is an amazing place and I will definitely go back one day. Thanks to Evertrek and my trekking buddies for a very special holiday.
Pamela Kuepfer
17:22 20 Oct 18
Great time in Nepal doing Everest Base Camp with Evertrek. Thanks Andy!
Gilles Comeau
13:07 12 Oct 18
Just returned from Everest Base Camp trek and it was absolutely brilliant!
Many thanks to everyone at EverTrek, especially Andy - from start to finish the organisation was par excellence. Special thanks to Rishi our guide and my trekking companions who put the icing on the cake to make one of my dreams come true.
Phil Costin
20:54 10 Oct 18
Having recently booked myself on a trip to Everest Base Camp with Evertrek, I thought it would be one of those trips where you get to hear about everything you should have done two weeks before you go. Not with Andy and Evertrek. Immediately Andy was in touch with information, assistance and support. You could feel his energy coming at you. Along with the practical advice, Evertrek arrange training activities. These are great for finding out first hand what you need to know and how you might cope with the activities ahead. It really does crank up the excitement when you share your thoughts and views with fellow Evertrekers. This weekend we had one of these training activities in the Brecons. Andy made us all very welcome, and was there all the way, rain and shine, to helps us all along.
We made some great connections, enjoyed the socialising (you earn it!) and came away even more excited to be getting on the plane to Nepal. Hopefully there will be more such events to enjoy, and build on the training already done. I’m already walking the dogs for 10mins more🙂.
Thanks to Andy and the team for a great weekend. Good luck to those on their way in the next few months, and those who have a longer wait we can share your excitement.
Alan Payne
18:10 27 Aug 18
Brilliant Training Weekend in the Brecon Beacons with Andy and met some great people and got a good insight into what to expect for my trip in October. Can’t wait now....roll on EBC
Hayley Shadrake
19:14 26 Aug 18
Overjoyed with my recent trip to EBC. I can't praise Evertrek enough. From the 1st day I contacted Andy he has been amazing. Offering fantastic advice & tips before my trip.
Hotel, guides & transfers in Kathmandu were spot on.
Biggest credit has to go to the guide & sherpa who take care of you every step of the way.

Thank you Evertrek
Donna Brown
11:12 23 Jun 18
The EverTrek organisation was excellent, the choice of Kathmandu hotel superb, good trek accommodation and great choice of food. I was impressed with the punctuality of transfer arrangements too. Keep up the good work!
Mike Dean
18:25 06 Apr 18
Anna Bach
15:02 17 Mar 18
A truly wonderful once in a lifetime experience. My sister and I trekked to Everest Basecamp with Evertrek to mark the tenth anniversary of our dearest Mum passing away. It was an emotional experience we will never forget. It gave us time to reflect on wonderful times past and brought us closer as only shared endeavour can. The Himalayan backdrop was the perfect location.

But it's the people that made the trek. Our guide Kishor is a wonderful guy. A real fixer, high altitude expert, family man and now, friend. When the weather delayed our flight, he did everything he could to make sure we were first onto another. His experience, knowledge and local contacts got us into places we just wouldn't have seen without him. He knew when to go to the best places to avoid the crowds and he was the picture of happiness with his infectious smile. He was kind to the point of putting us first all the time, without hesitation. A true gentlemen and the source of lots of fun and laughter - perfect for morale. Our porters also deserve a mention for their hard work and dedication through some difficult long days at high altitude. Manesh was particularly hard working and charming, keen to learn and become a guide himself in time. Our trek wouldn't have been the same without them and when I go again I will definitely seek out the same team.

My recommendation? Grab a loved one and go trekking in Nepal in the capable hands of the Evertrek team. And request Kishor to be your guide. You won't regret it.
Stuart Everitt
16:09 29 Nov 17
Thanks guys for the experience of a lifetime. What can I say about Evertrek! Simply brilliant. From the moment we spoke with Andy and signed up it was all taken care of. The guides were truly amazing, professional and were always on-hand to look after us. Listen, this is a tough challenge but it's well within the reach of most of you out there considering the possibility. I've kept myself pretty fit all my life (63 years young) but trying to keep up with my sons was, at times, pushing my limits. The scenery is so beautiful it becomes an emotional challenge at times. We did Kilimanjaro a few years ago - Base Camp blows that away completely. However, you need to be in the best hands and we were. Our guides, Rahul and Krishna were meticulous in making sure we were looked after every step of the way and needless to say we have become friends for life. I cannot recommend EverTrex highly enough. Don't think about this for too long - just do it. They'll get there and you'll never forget the experience. So,as soon as I have some pics ready I'll upload and share but please do not hesitate to contact me while I'm still flying through thin air!!! Thanks again Andy and EverTrex
Alan Irwin
10:18 23 Oct 17
Loved every minute of the Everest Base Camp trek! The guys were all very accommodating and helpful in the build up to and on the trek. Everything about the package ensured my time was comfortable, fun and without any worries. Our guide Rawal was informative, friendly and a great laugh when he got his drums out on the last night! A big thank you to Evertrek for making this happen and I look forward to booking with you guys again!
Tom Moustache
19:28 10 Oct 17
Somnath Simkhada
17:08 09 Sep 17
Recently returned from trekking in Upper Mustang,Nepal.. and still in awe! What a trip!

Amazing service from Andy and Dave in helping me plan the most amazing,unique,epic,challenging,tough,
rewarding and memorable experiences...with stunning unspoilt views and a different pace of life.

They provided me with friendly, knowledgeable,caring guides. I really couldn't have asked for a better trek.
Highly recommend and will use again.
Melissa 'Gillette' Jones
15:19 09 Aug 17
Hey guys!
Just wanted to say a huge thanks to all at Bucket List, both here and in Nepal, for making my trip to EBC, Cho La and Gokyo so enjoyable and memorable. Himal, my guide, was a star and I enjoyed his company throughout the two plus weeks we were together; he looked after me really well and I have no doubt that his local knowledge helped to smooth the way on a few occasions when accommodation was tight! If my wife can be persuaded to let me go again, you will be my first port of call.
Cheers!
Ian Folly
15:16 15 May 17
What a first class service, Andy was supportive, knowledgeable and really quick at replying. If you want to make base camp then this is the way to do it, from the airport to the top and back again. Fully supported, with a friendly team. Would not hesitate to book more treks in Nepal with Andy. Thank you team.
Paul Jim Hawkins
06:19 05 Jan 17
Amazing company!!! The owners are so helpful and made my trip to nepal (everest base camp & gokyo lakes) perfect. Very organised and always there for you!
Theresa Burger
01:06 07 Nov 16
Everest basecamp TICK...thanks for organising! Fantastic company, extremely friendly and professional.
Max Bibby
14:51 11 Jul 16
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