PORT DE BALÈS
This pass rises to an altitude of 1,755 metres and links the Barousse valley (in the Hautes-Pyrénées department) and the Oueil valley (in the Haute-Garonne department) via a small road, which is closed in winter.
BOURG-D'OUEILThe Paths to Freedom were routes taken by around 90,000 people during the Second World War: Resistance fighters, Allied pilots, Jews and STO draft dodgers…. By attempting to reach Spain, they all hoped to escape the Nazism that threatened their very existence.
Haute-Garonne Tourisme and the “Chemins de la liberté par le Comminges et le Val d’Aran” association invite you to discover the 1st part of this route, from the Col de Balès to Portet de Luchon.
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This hike is suitable for families with good hiking boots. The ascent is 547 m, but the profile is downhill with over 1000 m of ascent.
By taking this route via the Col de Balès, you are following in the footsteps of André Bon. This escapee was transported to Saléchan station via Toulouse thanks to the Françoise resistance network, an early helper who helped at least 700 people escape.
Like André Bon, who made it all the way to Bénasque in Spain, thousands more braved the dangers of the mountains in the hope of finding freedom beyond the summit of the Pyrenees.
A dangerous and demanding human adventure, this gruelling crossing cost the lives of more than 2,200 people, victims of the mountains or Nazi troops.
Those of you who walk in the footsteps of these shadowy fighters, escapees, smugglers, networks of helpers, anonymous people who contributed to the rescues, many of whom never returned… Don’t forget them.
To find out more about the story of these fugitives and their smugglers: “Chemins de la liberté par le Comminges et le Val d’Aran” association.
A mountain professional can accompany you on your hike to help you discover the flora and fauna of the area: https://www.pyrenees31.com/planifier/activites/randonnees/trouver-accompagnateur/
This pass rises to an altitude of 1,755 metres and links the Barousse valley (in the Hautes-Pyrénées department) and the Oueil valley (in the Haute-Garonne department) via a small road, which is closed in winter.
BOURG-D'OUEIL
Our team is at your service to help you organise your stay in the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees (Luchon, St-Béat-Lez, St-Bertrand de Comminges), answer your questions and give you sound advice for a relaxing holiday.
18 Allées d'Etigny BP 29 BAGNERES-DE-LUCHON
La Soulan, l’Ensoleillée in Occitan, is nestled in a small mountain village, facing due south. This converted former barn offers a magnificent view of the 3000m peaks. For the Christmas and New Year holidays: minimum 3-night rental for the entire gîte on a half-board basis (breakfast and meals served by the owners). The rest of the year, a minimum of 1 night’s rental, per room, on a half-board basis.
62 rue des Trois Fontaines Gîte Auberge La Soulan CATHERVIELLE
