France & Spain Across the Pyrenees Hiking Tours

High Mountain Passes & Luxury Paradors

Travel from Bilbao to Barcelona on this comprehensive trek across the iconic Pyrenees - a hiker's paradise. Learn about the culture, architecture, and natural surroundings of this fascinating region as you hike through the ancient mountain kingdoms of Aragón and Catalonia. Marvel at towering peaks, high meadows, and enormous waterfalls while traversing challenging and magnificent terrain. Wrap up each day's adventure at a picturesque country inn or a luxurious parador, heritage buildings revamped as hotels. With guided tours of Pamplona and Barcelona that bookend the trip, experience the best of this mesmerizing region.

Set out on strenuous but rewarding treks through the extraordinary scenery of the Pyrenees

Explore Ordesa National Park, called the "Spanish Grand Canyon" for its dramatic cliffs and valleys

Enjoy bird's-eye views of the majestic Gavarnie stone amphitheater, with waterfalls pouring over 1,500-foot walls

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

This journey was designed by top MT Sobek guide Erik Perez, a professional mountaineer and published historian passionate for northeastern Spain.

Reason #02

Our adventure pairs explorations into the region's natural landscapes with guided city tours, all featuring insights into the local culture and history.

Reason #03

After a thrilling quest through a breathtaking scenery of peaks, waterfalls and high meadows, days end at picturesque country inns and upscale historic hotels.

Meet your guides

Erik Perez

Erik was born and raised in the Asturias region of northern Spain and has been leading MT Sobek trips in Europe, Asia and South America since 1989. Erik holds the coveted IFMGA/UIAGM certification, which is the highest professional award attainable in mountaineering. He has written two guidebooks on hikes and climbs in the Picos de Europa. Erik studied Humanities at the University of Oviedo-the capital city of Asturias-and received a Masters degree in History. He is among MT Sobek's most well-loved guides, leading Across the Pyrenees, El Camino de Santiago, and MT Sobek's 50th Anniversary Base Camp Trek in 2019.

Leo San Sebastian

Leo was born in the mountains of Spain's Basque Country and made his home in Jaca, in the heart of the Pyrenees, where he spends his winters on backcountry skis. He has been guiding in the Pyrenees for many years, as well as in Nepal, Morocco, Tanzania, Peru, Chile, Venezuela, Pakistan, India, and the French Alps. He has also taught skiing in Colorado. He is an International Certified Mountain Guide (UIAGM) and a professional ski instructor (ISIA). Leo is fluent in English, French, and Basque.

Activities

Rewarding hikes and scenic drives through dramatic landscapes of the Pyrenees, and informative city tours of Pamplona and Barcelona.

Lodging

Charming mountain hideaways, medieval castles, revamped historic landmarks (paradors) and modern city hotels, all featuring modern amenities and superb locations.

Climate

July is sunny with possible storms in the afternoon. September is clear and cooler. Temps will range from 50 F to 85 F.

FAQ

Who will meet me on arrival?

If you are arriving at the airport on Day 1, your guide will meet you and transfer you to the hotel in Bilbao.

What type of vehicle is used for transfers on this trip?

We use vans or a bus for transfers, depending on group size.

Can I skip any of the hikes if I need a rest day?

You are welcome to skip a day of hiking, but you must be willing to travel in our van along with the guide(s) as they support the group and transfer to the next night's hotel.

Do we go inside of the Sagrada Familia Temple in Barcelona?

No, we do not go inside of the Sagrada Familia. If you would like to visit the temple, we recommend doing so on your own after the trip.

Can I wear trail shoes/cross training shoes on this trip?

No, we highly recommend hiking boots with ankle support for this trip.

Do the hotels on this trip have pools?

There are two hotels that have pools on this trip: The Parador Nacional de Arties on Day 6, and the last night's hotel in Barcelona, the Gallery Hotel.

Reviews from Trustpilot

This was the best MTS Trip I have ever been on. Expert leadership in challenging terrain. I would do it again.

Kate Pound
MT Sobek Guest

Eric, the guide, is amazing. His knowledge and caring for the clients stands out way above any I have ever experienced! I went on this trip partly because I knew Eric was the leader having gone on his Greece trip prior to this trip. Great hiking and neat lodging, including a castle!

Marianne Vest
MT Sobek Guest