Pyrenees Freedom Trail Exploration Winter or Chemin de la Liberté Winter Expedition

Day 1: Arrivals in Toulouse

Begin your journey by being picked up from Toulouse airport early afternoon and be transported to the charming Hotel Les Grandes Balcon close to Place Capitole. You have the chance to visit the Toulouse resistance museum if time. Accommodation: Hotel Les Grandes Balcon 4*

Day 2: Exploring the Enchanting Pessons Frozen Lakes

Morning transfer from Toulouse to Grau Roig in Andorra visiting a lake where the border was contested between France and Andorra. Today we will explain the context of Andorra and France in WW2.

Embark on a picturesque journey through the Pessons Frozen Lakes, where nature's splendor unfolds at every turn. Our route meanders through a majestic mountain pine forest before ascending across a scenic ski slope. Marvel at the pristine beauty of Estany de Primer, our first lake stop, where a delightful mountain restaurant awaits. We then traverse granite boulders and verdant pine forests, ascending towards the breathtaking cirque de Pessons, home to several stunning lakes, before returning to the tranquil enclave of Grau Roig. Transfer to Canillo.

Duration: 5-6 hours | Distance: 10.5km | Elevation Gain/Loss: 300m + 1hr border lake walk

Accommodation: Hotel Bonavida, Canillo or similar (B,L,D)

Day 3: Embark on an enchanting journey to Val de Rialb, a hidden gem nestled above La Massana and Ordino. Our adventure begins with a scenic transfer to El Serrat, followed by a leisurely ascent through verdant woodlands to reveal a remote valley adorned with a glistening stream. Choose to continue your ascent, passing by the historic refuge de Rialb, and reach a picturesque "port" bordering France, or opt for a scenic loop, depending on snow conditions. Delve into the area's rich history, marked by daring escapes from France to Andorra, with an optional visit to a nearby refugee museum. We will ascend toward the Port de Siguer often used in WW2 escapes. Only a sleeping bag sheet and pillowcase are needed to stay at refuge Sorteny. Refuge de Sorteny

Duration: 5-6 hours | Accommodation: Refuge Sorteny (1965m)

(B,L,D)

After descending from the Sorteny refuge be head down for 1.7km and transfer to Val d’Incles (8 minutes) Venture into the preserved wilderness of Val d'Incles, a haven of natural beauty punctuated by quaint Bordas (local barns). This valley holds historical significance as a vital passage for the French Resistance during World War II. Join our knowledgeable local guide as we trace the footsteps of wildlife, from hares and foxes to pine martens, amidst the pristine snow. For the daring, extend your journey to the panoramic Cabane Sorda and its tranquil lake, or ascend towards the majestic Porte de Fontargente (Incles) and the French border, weather permitting. Celebratory meal in Soldeu.

Duration: 6-7 hours | Distance: 10.5-13km depending on route | Elevation Gain/Loss: +780m

Accommodation: Hotel Maistre Soldeu 3*

Bid adieu to the enchanting landscapes of Andorra as we facilitate your departure back to Toulouse. Reflect on new cherished memories of Andorra’s winter haven. If it is an afternoon or evening flight we can visit the Estany d’Abelettes close to Pas de la Casa on the way.

Le monument commémoratif de la guerre 1939-1945 dit monument national de la Liberté Aérigé "à la gloire des réseaux d'Évasion, des Passeurs et des Évadés de France."

Depending on the size of the group we will select the Cabane de Garsten or other to spend the night and bring up sleeping bags, stove and any additional support neccessary. We will be wearing snowshoes but the going probably won't be easy in our climb up from the icy track beneath. Temperatures can be as low as -13 at night.

This day is a serious undertaking and you will have the change to cross a frozen lake depending on when you go . Be prepared to take your turn breaking trail and have the mentality not to give up. For this day we ask that you have as a minimum completed mount Toubkal in winter. During WW2 airman and jewish people fleed via these lakes as Fontargente is one of the lower passes in the area at 2200m.

We walk 20.6km on easier terrain above the valley floor to reach the capital passing Radio Andorra on the way.