Between 1940 and 1945, thousands of people crossed the Pyrenees clandestinely to escape Nazi oppression and reach Spain, then North Africa or the United Kingdom. Among them were Allied airmen, members of the Resistance, persecuted Jews and draft dodgers. Guided by courageous local smugglers who knew every pass and path, these escapees faced cold, fatigue and the constant danger of being arrested. The new cross-border trail “Les Chemins de la Liberté – Liaison Val d’Aran” perpetuates this memory by allowing today’s hikers to literally walk in the footsteps of these anonymous heroes who risked their lives for freedom.
This 38-kilometre route between Saléchan and Les (Val d’Aran) offers an unforgettable long-distance hiking experience in the heart of unspoilt nature. The trail passes through breathtakingly beautiful Pyrenean landscapes: dense forests of beech and fir, high mountain pastures grazed by flocks, steep ridges offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Awarded the “Itinéraires Liberté Pyrénées Europe” label, this challenging route requires a good level of fitness and is best explored over several days. All along the way, evocative silhouettes and information panels tell the story of historical figures, creating a permanent dialogue between today’s walker and the history of these mountains.
The opening of this trail illustrates the strength of the links that unite the Pyrenean territories across administrative boundaries. The result of close collaboration between the Communauté de Communes des Pyrénées Haut-Garonnaises, the Val d’Aran, the French government, the Occitanie region, the Conseil départemental de la Haute-Garonne and numerous local partners, this cross-border project bears witness to a common desire to preserve and pass on a shared memory. This link will also enhance the network of long-distance footpaths by creating an unprecedented connection between the GR86 (Toulouse-Bagnères-de-Luchon), the GR10 (the legendary crossing of the Pyrenees) and the Spanish GR211 in the Val d’Aran, opening up new prospects for trekking enthusiasts.
In addition to the inaugural event on 18 October, the“Les Chemins de la Liberté – Liaison Val d’Aran” trail remains accessible all year round to experienced hikers. To help you prepare for your discovery of this demanding but deeply moving route, the Office de Tourisme des Pyrénées Haut-Garonnaises provides you with all the practical information you need: detailed maps, a topographical guide, safety recommendations and suggestions for accommodation. Whether you’re a history buff in search of authenticity, a seasoned hiker looking for new challenges or simply curious to discover an exceptional area, these paths await you for a human and sporting adventure that goes far beyond simple mountain walking.
08:45: Welcome at the Marignac commemorative stele (square Louis Ebelot)
09:00: Start of the inaugural group hike (8 km round trip, 400 m ascent)
11.00am: Arrival at the Notre Dame de Souesté sanctuary
11.15am: Official speeches and a time of remembrance
12.30 pm: Cocktail lunch
1:30 pm: Show “Leurs pas résonnent” (“Their footsteps resonate”) by the Ceci N’Est Pas Une Caravane company
2.45pm: Group return to Marignac
For the walk, we recommend that you bring suitable walking shoes, poles if necessary, water and appropriate clothing depending on the weather conditions.
