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Catalan Pyrenees

Discover the beauty of the Catalan Pyrenees

Spectacular scenery and hiking

Two guided hikes each day

Choose which route you'd like to join

Hotel with spa and pool

Guided hiking in the Catalan Pyrenees

Spectacular scenery and hiking

Choice of 2 hikes each day

 

Hotel with spa and pool

Guided hiking

7 nights

Two hiking options each day

Single centre

Guided walking holiday in the Catalan Pyrenees

7-night guided walking holiday in the Cerdanya Region of the Eastern Pyrenees

 

Explore the eastern Pyrenees on a guided hiking holiday that showcases the wild, granitic and calcitic landscapes and high glacial lakes of the Catalan mountains. This region has a very different feel to the central Pyrenees — more Mediterranean in character, quieter, and shaped by deep forested valleys and broad open plateaus that sit beneath the peaks of The Catalan Pyrenees, all a stone throw away from Andorra and France. Each day you can choose between a tougher high‑level route or a gentler option through meadows, forests and lakes. With experienced local guides leading the way, you’ll discover one of the most varied and least‑visited corners of the Pyrenees.

Overview

  • Explore the Catalan Pyrenees
  • 7 night guided walking holiday
  • Two guided hiking options each day - an easier and a harder route
  • EcoResort hotel with spa and pool
  • Transfers from Barcelona
  • Spectacular scenery!

Estany de Malniu Estany de Malniu

Explore the Catalan Pyrenees with this guided hiking itinerary. Based in the area of Cerdanya, you'll stay at the lovely Hotel Muntayna which has a spa, pool and excellent facilities and meals.

Guided hiking

The hiking routes explore the whole of the Cerdanya region, with routes in the north to the peaks on the borders with Andorra and France, to the south where we find the Sierra de Cadi, and one day in France. All hikes will be guided by knowledgeable, qualified guides. There will be two guided routes offered each day and you are free to choose which hike you'd like to do.

Harder routes will get up into the higher, rugged, areas of the region, exploring high lakes and peaks. The shorter routes still have spectacular views, but stay lower down where the paths are kind underfoot with less ascent.

Eco-friendly Spa Hotel

Cerdanya EcoResort is an ecologically friendly hotel, with its own extensive vegetable gardens and greenhouses which you can take a guided tour of during your stay. It has a pool, spa, sauna and jacuzzi (with wonderful views!) and a visit to the spa and jacuzzi is included during your stay there.

 

Looking towards the Sierra de Cadi Looking towards the Sierra de Cadi

Itinerary

The hiking routes explore the whole of the Cerdanya region and this area of the Catalan Pyrenees, with routes in the north to the peaks on the borders with Andorra and France, to the south where we find the Sierra de Cadi, and one day on the French side of the border. All hikes will be guided by knowledgeable, qualified guides.

Two hiking options will be offered each day, a shorter and a longer option. Each evening we'll explain the following days routes and people can decide which they'd like to do. The itinerary below shows the hikes that we will be offering, however, we do leave our itineraries flexible and will adjust plans according to the group's level of fitness and the weather forecast.

Shorter options will be 6-10 km with between 200 and 400 metres of ascent. The hiking will generally be on good paths and is quite grassy underfoot, although there are some rocky sections. The longer option will be 10-14 km, with 600 to 1000 metres of ascent. The terrain will be more rugged, stony, and steeper than the easier options.

Cerdanya EcoResort makes a perfect base for exploring the area being close to the best hikes and having great facilities such as a spa and pool. A visit each day to the hotel's lovely spa is included in the price of the holiday.

Day 1 - Arrive Cerdayna EcoResort

Transfer from Barcelona - it's a two hour transfer from the airport or Barcelona Sants train station. Arrive in Cerdanya where you stay at Hotel Muntayna which is part of the Cerdanya EcoResort. Briefing in the evening about the week ahead, going over the route and giving you a chance to ask any questions. Evening meal at the hotels restaurant, many dishes are made with ingredients grown in the hotel's own extensive vegetable garden and greenhouses.

Day 2

The southern side of the valley is explored today as both routes head up to the beautiful meadow of Prat de Cadi, lying under the high cliffs of the Sierra de Cadi.

Short option: Prat de Cadi

Prat de Cadi Prat de Cadi

The hike starts in the tiny village of Estana. From here you climb through beautiful pine woods to the flower-filled meadows of Prat de Cadi that lie beneath the high cliffs of the Sierra de Cadi. This is a there-and-back route, returning to the village of Estana.
Short option: 6.5 km, ascent: 370 m

Longer option: Prat de Cadi plus the route of the cols

The longer option also heads up through woodland, to the flower-filled meadows of the Prat de Cadi. From here, we head along a beautiful path that runs along the bottom of the cliffs of the Sierra de Cadi. You also get great views to the north, over all of the high peaks that line the border between Spain and both France and Andorra. This circular route, then heads back to the village of Estana.
Long option: 14 km, ascent 720 m

Day 3

Today, we explore the area of Perafita, a high mountain that sits on the Spanish/Andorran border. The easier option visits the lakes that sit below the summit, while the longer option heads up to the col on the border or up to the 2753m summit of Perafita.

Short option: The Pera lakes

Starting in beautiful pine woods, the route gently heads up through meadows and into more open rugged land. Here we find the beautiful lakes of Pera. These two lovely lakes sit right under the face of the rugged peak of Perafita. Option of a coffee at the refugio that's nearby.
Short option: 6.5 km, ascent/descent: 225 m

Long option: Col of Perafita or the summit of Perafita (2753m)

Again staring in pine woods, you head up to the lakes of Pera. From here, the steeper climbing begins as you head up to the Pass of Perafita, a traditional crossing point for smugglers between Andorra and Spain. If people are up for it, we can continue up the ridgeline that marks the border, up to the summit for magnificent views over both Andorra and Spain.
Long option: to col: 9 km, ascent 450 m (the peak adds 2.5 km and 200 metres ascent)

Day 4

Today, we head to France for a spectacular set of hikes in a granite area, full of high mountain lakes. All of the routes start from the refuge of Bulloses. Both hikes explore beautiful sets of lakes.

Short option: Estany Negre and the lakes loop

A lovely walk starting at the refuge of Bulloses. The hut is already at 2000 metres so you start nice and high today. This gentle path heads south-east and passes by a set of beautiful high mountain lakes - Estany de la Pradella, Estany Negre, Estany Llarg and Estany Racó. Each lake lies at around 2000 metres altitude, in lovely mountain scenery.
Shorter option: distance: 7 km, ascent: 200 m

Long option: The high lake loop

This route explores the higher lakes to the west of the Refuge of Bulloses. You'll pass by ten lakes that all lie in the area under the high peaks of Pic Carlit which at 2921 metres one of the highest summits in the area. The route makes a wonderful circuit of the lakes, all of which have wonderful views.
Long option: distance: 11.5 km, ascent: 420 m

Cerdayna EcoResort Jacuzzi Relax your tired legs in a jacuzzi with a view!

Day 5 - Rest day - Puigcerda visit

A day to relax the leg. In the morning we'll have a guided tour of the town of Puigcerda - a fascinating town that lies right on the French border. We'll learn about the history of the area and climb the bell tower where we can see the town of Llivia, a Spanish enclave surrounded by France, and discover its story.

You can take advantage of the excellent facilities at the hotel. Relax in the pool or spa, or take a yoga class. For those with energy, you can play a game of padel tennis, use the gym or try out the climbing wall.

In the afternoon we'll have a guided tour of the hotel's greenhouses and vegetable gardens and they'll explain their drive towards sustainability. The day will be rounded off by a barbeque evening meal, in a delightful area the hotel has nearby.

Day 6

The hikes all start at the refuge of Cap de Rec and explore the lakes that lie under Tossa Plana de Lles, at 2905 metres the highest mountain in Cerdanya.

Short option: Lake l'Orri

Starting at the hut of Cap del Rec, we hike up through woodland to the beautiful lake of l'Orri, lying only a few kilometres from the Andorran border and set amongst lovely pine woods.
Short option: 7 km, ascent 300 m

Long option: The Setut Lakes

Heading up through the pine woods, we first pass by the lake of l'Orri. We keep climbing, leaving the woods behind and reach two high lakes of Setut, sitting under the summits, just a stone's throw from Andorra.
Long option: 12 km, ascent 690 m

Day 7

The starting point for today's routes is the hut of Refugi de Malniu at 2130 metres. A hut in a delightful setting with a beautiful lake alongside. The short route explores the meadows and and nearby lakes, while the longer route follows a section of the famous GR11 path to a rugged alpine area with lakes set in high mountain scenery.

Short option: Estany de Malniu

We first explore the small but very pretty lake next to the refuge, before heading through meadows where horses graze to the larger lake of Estany de Malniu. We head up to another smaller lake before returning to the Malniu hut.
Short option: 8 km, ascent  300m

Long option: Estany Llarg

Heading out from Refuge Malniu, we hike along a section of the GR11, the famous trans-Pyrenean path that runs the length of the range. We hike up to and into a wonderful cirque, filled with lakes and surrounded by high rocky peaks. We make a circuit of the lakes, before heading back down the GR11.
Distance 14 km, ascent 700 m

Day 8 - Depart

Breakfast at the hotel before transfer to Barcelona Sants trains station or Barcelona El Prat airport (approx. 2 hours).

Catalan Pyrenees Prices & Dates

2026

31 May - 7 June 2026 (last place available)
12 - 19 July 2026 (fully booked)
27 Sep - 4 Oct 2026 (fully booked)

Price

May & September dates
1899 € per person (based on two people sharing a twin or double room)
210 € single room supplement

July dates
1949 €
per person (based on two sharing a twin or double room)
245 € single room supplement

What is included:

7 nights accommodation at Hotel Muntanya (Cerdanya EcoResort)
7 x breakfasts (every morning)
7 x three course evening meals (each night)
One time spa session
5 x picnics for all hiking days
5 x guided walking days
Rest day excursion to Puigcerda
Transfers to/from Barcelona

What is not included:

Flights, insurance, drinks with the evening meal.

Transfers

Transfers will be from/to BARCELONA (not Zaragoza like most of our other holidays).

There will be a pick up from both Barcelona El Prat airport and Barcelona Sants train station (which is quite central if you are staying in Barcelona beforehand). We'll pick you up at Barcelona Sants train station at 2:00 pm and from Barcelona El Prat Airport at 2:30 pm. On the following Sunday we'll drop you off around 11 am in either train station and airport.

Hotels

Hotel Muntanya - Cerdanya EcoResort (Prullans)

Cerdayna EcoResort Jacuzzi Relax your tired legs in a jacuzzi with a view!

A lovely ecologically friendly hotel in the village of Prullans. Rooms have beautiful views of the valley and over to the Sierra de Cadi which you can enjoy from your balcony (most, but not all rooms have balconies). All bedrooms are en-suite.

The hotel's pool has a sliding roof so is either indoor or outdoor depending on the weather, meaning that it can be used year-round. The spa is lovely, with a tranquil adults-only pool, sauna, cold plunge pools, and a jacuzzi with superb views. A spa circuit is included that you're in the EcoResort during your stay.

The hotel bar has a large terrace and garden outside, all with great views over the mountains. There is a gym, padel courts and facilities such as bike hire available.

During the summer, the hotel grows the majority of its own vegetables in its extensive gardens and greenhouses. A guided tour of the vegetable gardens is included during your stay.

Evening meals and breakfasts are taken at the hotel's restaurant. Meals are three courses with choices for each course. They serve many local Catalan dishes. Breakfasts are buffet-style. Picnic lunches will be provided for each hiking day.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Hike Pyrenees Trip Guarantee

Are your trips guaranteed to run?

Yes — all Hike Pyrenees holidays are guaranteed to run. Once you book, your trip is confirmed.

Travel & Transfers to the Catalan Pyrenees

Where do you pick up from, and what time are your transfers?

Barcelona TransfersTransfers for all of our guided trips are included in the cost of your trip. We pick up from Barcelona Sants train station (close to the city centre) at 2:00 pm and from Barcelona El Prat airport at 2:30 pm. Return drop‑off is at 11:00 am at the train station or the airport. The transfer time is approximately 2 hours.

Can I arrive by train instead of flying?

Yes. Barcelona Sants is a major railway station and is well-connected to several large cities in Spain and France, including direct trains from both Paris and Madrid. Please ensure that you arrive in time for the 2:00 pm transfer.

Can I make my own way to Cerdanya?

Yes — you’re welcome to drive or arrange your own transport. We’ll confirm check‑in times and parking options. There is free, safe parking at the hotel.

Accommodation

Where will I stay during the holiday?

You will be staying in Hotel Muntanya - Cerdanya EcoResort, in the village of Prullans. The hotel has a swimming pool, spa, sauna, cold plunge pools and a jacuzzi. There is a pharmacy and a small grocery shop in the village; however, we will pass through larger villages and towns throughout the week and can stop if anybody would like to buy anything.

Can I book a single room?

Yes. Single rooms are available for a supplement.

Is there Wi‑Fi at the hotel?

Yes — free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Are room upgrades available?

Yes, the hotel has premium rooms with private terraces and junior suites. Drop us an email to check upgrade prices and availability.

Meals & Dietary Requirements

Which meals are included in the price?

Breakfasts, picnic lunches on walking days, and evening meals are included. The only meal not included is lunch on the rest day.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free and other dietary needs can be catered for with advance notice.

What are the evening meals like?

Three-course meals are served in the restaurant each evening, and you have a choice of starters, main course and dessert. Many of the dishes are made with ingredients grown in the hotel's own garden and greenhouses.

Walking Levels & Fitness

How difficult are the walks?

Two guided options are offered each day:

-Lower‑level: 6-10km of distance, relaxed pace, good paths, moderate ascents

-Higher‑level: 10-14km of distance, longer days, steeper terrain with rougher paths.

In general, the paths and terrain in this area are good underfoot allowing good progress (there are a couple of rockier sections on the longer hikes though).

The road heads are quite high in this area, and often we'll start hiking at around 2000 metres, making some high peaks accessible without too much effort.

Can I switch between the easier and harder walks?

Yes — each morning the guides explain both routes, and you can choose whichever suits you that day.

How fit do I need to be?

A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Lower‑level walks are suitable for regular walkers; higher‑level routes require good stamina and confidence on uneven terrain.

What distances and ascents should I expect?

Lower‑level: typically 6-10km of distance and 200–400 m ascent

Higher‑level: typically 10-14km of distance and 600–1000 m ascent.

Walking time ranges from 5–9 hours depending on the route.

Group & Guiding

How big are the groups?

Groups are small and friendly, usually around 12 to 16 people. These are split between the two hikes each day, making the hiking groups around 6 to 9 people, depending on how the group splits.

Who leads the walks?

All hikes are led by one of Hike Pyrenees small guiding team. They are experienced, fully-qualified, English-speaking guides who know the Pyrenees, their wildlife, legends and history.

Is this holiday suitable for solo travellers?

Yes — many guests come alone, and the small‑group format makes it very sociable.

Packing & Equipment

What should I bring?

Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, warm layers, sun protection, a daypack, and a refillable water bottle. The water in the hotel is safe to drink.

Can I borrow trekking poles?

Absolutely. We can lend you trekking poles for no extra cost.

Booking & Practicalities

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes - insurance to cover accidents in the mountains and illness is compulsory. The insurance must cover mountainous terrain and hiking. We also recommend general travel insurance to cover flight delays, lost luggage, and to provide cover if you need to cancel your trip due to injury/illness before you travel.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel your trip, the deposit of 125€ per person is non-refundable. If you have paid your balance and cancel with 7 weeks' notice, or more, we will refund 50%. If you cancel with less than 7 weeks' notice, no refund will be made. Remember, most travel insurance will cover this cost if you need to cancel due to injury.

Trip-Specific Questions

What makes the Catalan Pyrenees walking holiday special?

This holiday explores a quieter, greener corner of the Pyrenees, known for its rolling ridges, beech forests, Romanesque villages, and big open views. It’s a perfect blend of scenery, culture, and relaxed mountain walking.

Which routes might we walk?

Depending on conditions, routes may include:

- Prat de Cadi, beneath the high cliffs of Sierra de Cadi

- The Pass of Perafita (2550m) on the border with Andorra a traditional crossing point for smugglers between Andorra and Spain

- Lake l'Orri & the Setut Lakes

- Hiking along the GR11 from Refuge Malniu

- One hike in France around the fantastic granite area of Bulloses, which has a dozen lakes nestled under the high mountains.

How long are the transfers to each walk?

Most walks are around a 40-minute drive; the drive to the hike in France is a bit longer.

Will we see wildlife in the Catalan Pyrenees?

The Catalan Pyrenees are home to griffon vultures, bearded vultures, deer, and a wide variety of alpine and woodland flowers

Private Group Bookings

Can you run this itinerary for a private group?

Yes, we can run this itinerary as a bespoke trip for private groups with dates to suit the group. Drop us an email with approx. numbers and dates if you are interested in a private group trip.
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Catalan Pyrenees

Guided Walking Holiday

2026 Dates:

31 May - 7 June (last place available)
12 - 19 July (fully booked)
27 Sep - 4 October (fully booked)

1899 € per person

To check availability or for more information:

Dates interested in:

Photos from the Cerdanya itinerary

Location:

Hotel Muntanya, Cerdayna EcoResort

Ecologically friendly hotel with pool and spa facilities.

Cerdayna EcoResort Jacuzzi Relax your tired legs in a jacuzzi with a view!