5 Day Freedom Trail Trek in the Pyrenees
Dates 3rd – 7th September 2019
Every year, the “Chemin de la Liberté ” trail inspires trekkers in the Pyrenees to make their own journey to commemorate the 782 Allied airmen and Jewish refugees who risked their lives on a 60km route escaping Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II through Ariege. In total there were over 33,000 successful escapes by Frenchmen alone. Of these 3,000 never returned home . 6,000 allied service men (mainly aircrew) also escaped. Having reached the mountains the men were hidden in secret collecting areas and formed into groups ready for the final night ascent to the Spanish Frontier. Many trails sprang up in Ariege, only known to the particular guide or Passeur. At the beginning of 1943 due to increased German surveillance or betrayal by La Milice, ambushes along many trails became common.
Trip Itinerary – 5 days
Day 1 – Arrive at Toulouse Blagnac, pick up and transfer to Aunac or Estbinz Auberge. If time a visit to Chateau de Seix or St Girons. (D)
Day 2 – Estbinz/Aunac – Subera (B,L,D)
Day 3 – Subera – Estagnous (B,L,D)
Day 4 – Estagnous – Spain, Stay in 2* hotel in Viehla (B,L)
Day 5 – Departure to the airport from Vielha
An full itinerary will be emailed to you and is subject to change should we experience any extreme weather conditions, and in this instance we will cross a lower col which was used pre November 1942 as an escape route. Around 95% of clients are able to make the full route but in the case of lack of fitness or injury we always try to bring people around to Spain to meet the rest of the group so they can celebrate the journey together.
Price: £700.00 (Does not include international flght)
Destination airport: Toulouse Blagnac
Included:
B = Breakfast L = Packed lunch D= Dinner
- Accommodation nights for 4 nights based on a twin or double room sharing
- Meal plan as stated
- Gas, stoves and tents if needed for wild camp + camp team (we bring speciality starters and refreshments)
- In country transfers as in the itinerary
- 5 days guiding, and local transport as stipulated in the itinerary
- Transfer of your luggage each evening for days 1 and 2 so you can walk with a day pack
What’s not included:
- Flights, personal insurance
- Phone calls, drinks at refuges, any meals before the start of the programme on day 1.
- Any evacuation costs in case of drop out
Extension by 1 day for 1 September departure: Visit the Vielha museum and animal part to see the local wild life at close quarters. Spend more time enjoying Spain.
Further Information
Upon booking a full kit list will be provided. We intend to deliver the stated itinerary but due to changing mountain weather conditions we ask you stay flexible so that we can get the most out of each day and have an enjoyable experience.
Insurance
Please note that you must have the appropriate insurance for your chosen activity. As we will be in the mountains you must be covered for helicopter rescue, repatriation and medical costs. With regard to this please be sure you