Luxury Costa Brava to Spanish Pyrenees Walk 6D5N, Fully Guided

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 122m (400ft)
Level 3, Approx. 9.6km (6 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 122m (400ft)

Meet your Trip Leaders at 9:30 am in the lobby of the Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel located on Moll de Barcelona, Ciutat Vella District, in Barcelona. Arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear, a sun hat, sunscreen and anything else you may want for today's hike (your luggage will be transported to your first night's accommodations).

Arrive at the most unique attraction in Spain, Catalonia, a truly diverse venture with its distinct culture, laws, traditions, languages and eateries. Gather in Barcelona and shuttle to Baix Empordà, well-known as a region of coves, situated on the northernmost side of Catalonia. We begin our walk at La Creu de Begur's vantage point.

Take in the vast seaside view that stretches all the way to France, with the Pyrenees and Montgri castle towering splendidly in the background. Start your ascent toward Begur, a hilltop city protected by an 11th-century fortress. Uncover its charm from art, music and unique Cuban influences. Enjoy lunch in a typical Cuban house by the village square. Continue on foot through Begur's historic alleyways before arriving at a pine grove that provides shade as we head towards the sea. We join the well-known Cam de Ronda, a hiking route that travels more than 90 miles along the Costa Brava's coastline. Witness narrow paths, slopes, climbs and descends, as you take in the soothing vistas on your way.

You'll stay at Hostal de La Gavina, part of the Leading Hotel of The World and Catalunya’s only five star grand luxe resort. Nestled on a small peninsula between two secluded bays, each with a sandy beach, bask in the spectacular views over the Mediterranean. Unwind at the seawater outdoor pool or heated indoor pool. Tonight, gather together for a welcome reception before indulging in a gastronomic dinner affair at the hotel’s exquisite restaurant.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 8.04km (5 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 183m (600ft)
Level 3, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 214m (700ft)
Level 4, Approx. 16.09km (10 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 366m (1200ft)

After breakfast, board a shuttle for a quick journey to La Fosca, a gorgeous seaside hamlet; take a walk to experience the natural environment of vegetation full of pines that will fascinate you. Before we reach Platja Castell, where the Gavarres Mountain Range plunges precipitously into the water, our path takes us past traditional fishing shacks and small towns. Track the cliffs and undeveloped coves along the coast as you make your way along a dirt path swathed in holm, cork oaks, and pines.

Along the journey, there will be some challenging inclines, as well as rocks, roots, and potentially even some archaeological relics. The partially excavated remnants of an ancient Iberian village can be seen on the rocky promontory known as Agulla del Castell (Needle of the Castle). Continue going down the seaside paths known as Camins de Ronda, which smugglers originally used to connect the many bays of the Costa Brava. You'll walk up and down stairs, through tunnels, and past stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Spend time exploring Cap Roig Botanical Garden, where multicolored native and exotic flower species bloom on terraces that descend from a hilltop castle to the sea, connected by winding staircases.

Enjoy a delectable picnic in the charming fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell. Savour the coastal breezes and continue hiking to Tamariu, one of the Costa Brava's most sheltered beaches. For those in pursue of a slower pace can take the shuttle back to the hotel for a pampering session at the spa (at own expense). This evening, venture into town at a favorite local spot for a indulging regional dinner affair.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 274.32m (600ft)
Level 3, Approx. 8.04km (5 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 304m (1000ft)
Level 4, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 366m (1200ft)

Today, we say goodbye to the seashore and go to the towering French Pyrenees, which encompass heavenly natural settings and sacred pilgrimage sites. This soul-inspiring destination includes forested mountains, green valleys, dramatic gorges, pristine lakes, and rushing waterfalls, with important towns along the rivers. On our early morning shuttle, we pass through Catalonia's Montseny National Park on our way to Cadi-Moixero, another stunning natural reserve. After a short stroll through the beautiful mountains of Dorres, we'll have a delicious lunch.

Our path takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Cerdanya region, known for its towering mountains, medieval villages, wonderful open valleys, and even beautiful horses. During our time in the valley, you will see many different types of landscapes, some of which include open meadows with grazing sheep and cows, ancient Roman roads, woods of chestnut, oak, hazelnut, pine, and other types of trees. Even though it is only a few miles away, it may give the impression that it is on a whole other planet from the clear water and secluded coves that we discovered the day before. Embark on a hike up to the church of Santa Mare de Deu de Bell-lloc, giving breathtaking views of the valley before making our way to Hotel Torre del Remei.

You’ll stay at this picturesque 5-star hotel housed in a 1910 modernist-style mansion. Indulge in the beautiful natural setting of the Catalan Pyrenees and Cadi-Moixero Natural Park by the terrace or take a refreshing dip in the pool.

This evening, take a lovely stroll and absorb the tranquility of the hotel’s serene gardens before being treated to a delicious dinner boasting local delights.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 213.36m (700ft)
Level 4, Approx. 20km (12 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 243.84m (800ft)

You will not want to miss the opportunity to spend the day visiting the breathtaking French Pyrenees. Once you've crossed the border and arrived at our trailhead on the Col de Pam, don your boots and clothing and get ready to hike to Lac des Bouillouses or Llac de la Bollosa, depending on your preference. Even the region's name, "French Siberia," is enough to make your heart race. This region, which is similar to that found in Russia, is characterized by the presence of large pine woods, numerous lakes, and chilly weather. Bearded vultures and black woodpeckers are possible visitors, so keep a watch out for them. Alpine grasses and colorful flowers, such as gentians and saffron crocuses, replace juniper bushes, rhododendrons, and mountain pines as one ascends in elevation. You will go past herds of cows and horses grazing in the meadows as you make your way to Lac de Pradella, a favorite location for anglers searching for rainbow trout.

Overlooking the picturesque Lac des Bouillouses, we stop for refreshments and rest. The natural heritage site of Lac des Bouillouses offers exceptional high mountain landscapes and is home to a particularly rich flora and fauna. Take a longer trek into the valley and meander down the Tet River, which weaves through awe-inspiring woodland and through bucolic pastures. You'll need sturdy hiking shoes because the rocky trail is sometimes wet and slick.

After returning to Torre del Remei for the night, take advantage of the hotel's facilities before boarding the shuttle to Puigcerdà. Embark on an adventure into town discovering its ancient historic center before treating yourself to dinner at your own leisure in many of its local restaurants.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 9.6km (6 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 365m (1200ft)
Level 3, Approx. 16km (10 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 426m (1400ft)
Level 4, Approx. 18km (11 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 457m (1500ft)

We spend the next two days getting to know the Cadi-Moixeró Nature Reserve, which is one of the largest parks in Catalonia and features a variety of ecosystems, stretching from the forest to the valley and going through the grassland and hilly massifs along the way. The woodpecker (the park's symbol), Tengmalm's owl, and the marten are just some of the creatures that call the area home. However, the ibex, with a population of more than 2,600, are the true lords of the mountains.

After reaching the mountain town of Estana, we will embark on a strenuous climb that is one of the most scenic of the entire journey. You can hike through dense pine forests and enjoy panoramic views of the Cad-Moixeró on a well-worn track. Continue your trek to Prat de Cadi, where you can take in the stunning vistas of this massif. Before retracing our steps through the forest to Estana, we taste some delectable nibbles, such as favorite local bread, cheeses, and salty delicacies. While continuing our climb to the town of Beixec, we can refuel with lunch in this charming hamlet or take the shuttle back to the hotel for a bit more time to unwind.

Either way, we're welcomed by El Castell de Ciutat, a Relais & Châteaux property located in La Seu d'Urgell. As you stroll through our garden, you may admire the fortified 13th-century castle, a listed historic building that offers spectacular views of hillsides. The hotel offers rooms bathed in warm sunlight in the morning and a lovely restaurant with a spectacular view over the natural park. Relax in the indoor or outdoor pool, unwind in the Jacuzzi or soothe yourself at the sauna.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 4.8km (3 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 61m (200ft)
Level 2, Approx. 8.04km (5 miles), 1 to 2 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 305m (1000ft)

If you are still up for one more climb, an early wakeup call see’s you on a scenic morning hike in the Pyrenees that will reward you with breathtaking views of the Cadi-Moxeiró massif. Alternatively, spend the morning relaxing at the hotel and enjoying one last café ambllet (coffee with milk). We get together for a tapas lunch before you say your goodbyes to your Trip Leaders and board a private coach to return to Barcelona, where your adventure ends.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.