About the event
Traverse through the picturesque mountains of the Pyrenees following the historic Freedom Trail Chemin de la Liberté
The Chemin de la Liberté is one of the most difficult World War II escape routes from Nazi occupied France into Spain. Historically, local people risked their lives here to help thousands of Jewish refugees and allied servicemen flee to safety. You'll find many memorials and plaques along the trail dedicated to their bravery.
The Pyrenees Freedom Trail is no easy feat, graded by Discover Adventure as one of their more difficult treks. Situated in spectacular surroundings, you’ll follow steep and arduous trails reaching approximately 2500m.
Though challenging, reflecting on the journeys of those taken years ago inspires the motivation to pull through. This is a remarkable trek, carrying a deep significance and paying tribute to the bravery of those who walked to save their lives.
How to enter
There are multiple payment options for this trip. All payment options have an initial £199 registration fee.
Full payment
Part payment
Fundraising
Book your place
For fundraising and part payment options, 50% of your fundraising target will cover the cost of your place. The remaining will go to Macmillan.
For the full payment option, 100% of your fundraising will go to Macmillan.
Please note that not everyone on the trip will be taking part for Macmillan and may be fundraising for other great causes.
More information about the challenge
Available dates
- July 15-20 2025
- September 9-14 2025.
Itinerary
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Day 1: London to Toulouse
Transfer to St Girons to explore the town and visit the Chemin de la Liberté museum. Stay the night at a hotel.
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Day 2: St Girons to Aunac
Drive to the trek start point, then enjoy a half-day trek through woodland with steep gradients, reaching Aunac and its memorial to the Évadés de France. Trek for approximately 4 hours. Stay the night at a refuge/camp (760m).
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Day 3: Aunac to Cabane d'Eychelle
After breakfast, trek to Col de le Core (1395m) for stunning views. Carry gear to the hut, then trek to the picturesque Etang d’Eychelle. Trek for approximately 7-8 hours. Stay the night at camp (1964m).
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Day 4: Cabane d'Eychelle to Estagnous Refuge
Navigate challenging terrain with steep climbs and descents, enjoying dramatic scenery near the snow-line. Descend to the refuge. Trek for approximately 7-8 hours. Stay the night at the refuge (2245m). (Alternative route available, conditions permitting.)
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Day 5: Estagnous to Spanish Border and Vielha
Trek downhill to Lac Rond (1929m), then ascend steeply to Lac Long (2125m) before crossing to Col de la Clauère (2522m). Enjoy a gentle descent to Esterri de Aneu and drive to Vielha. Trek for approximately 6 hours; drive for approximately 1 hour.
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Day 6: Vielha to Toulouse
Depart. Explore Vielha before transferring to Toulouse Airport for your flight home.
What's included with my challenge?
- 6 day trip
- Accommodation and all meals except where specified
- All transport from London to Toulouse and return
- Camping equipment, local support and back up equipment
- Discover Adventure leaders and local mountain guides, cooks and drivers
- Doctor with a group of 15 or more
- Entry to any sites included in itinerary.
View the trip notes to see the full itinerary. For more information on what's included and excluded for this trip, visit the Discover Adventure's website.
Why should I join Team Macmillan?
You'll be part of a unique group of like-minded challengers that will be fundraising to support people living with cancer – creating a friendly, supportive atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
As part of Team Macmillan, you'll receive:
But most importantly...
We'll provide you with a reason to keep going because you'll know that you're helping improve the lives of people living with cancer.
Donations make up 98% of our annual income so we simply couldn't do what we do without you.
Please make sure you have read our Terms and Conditions before signing up.
Event Accessibility
The Pyrenees Freedom Trail is a demanding trek, with steep ascents, challenging terrain, and varying weather conditions. While Discover Adventure aim to accommodate to diverse abilities, the nature of the trek means that it will not be accessible for all.
To discuss specific accessibility needs in relation to this challenge, please contact Discover Adventure at info@discoveradventure.com to arrange a confidential discussion. Discover Adventure are committed to ensuring a supportive and inclusive experience for all participants, respecting individual limits while fostering a spirit of camaraderie and shared achievement.
Ready to join?
By joining us you'll know that you're helping improve the lives of people living with cancer in the UK today.
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