2-day Tour- ” At the foot of the Pyrenees “
The perfect weekend hike for everyone!
This donkey trek is the perfect weekend getaway for the whole family! Side by side with the donkey the trail leads through the Albera nature park, past menhir and dolmen. Thyme and rosemary, wild lavender: pure and authentic Mediterranean idyll: No noisy beach, but southern tranquility, perfectly complemented by a retreat on a small organic farm. Here you are served culinary tastings of local products. Enjoy!
Whoever likes to live in close touch with nature can choose to sleep in a tent. As an alternative we offer a Casa Rural, a small, local guesthouse.
The tour has a cozy character. We walk mainly on wide paths with little difference in height, so that the walk is easy and therefore also very feasible for kids. Most of the time kids can even ride on the donkeys!
Day 1: Rolling Hills and Wild Nature
Destination: Donkey Ranch – Espolla/Rabós
Distance: Up to Espolla / Up to Rabós 14-16 km (depending on option)
Elevation: +280 / -360
We begin our hike at the Donkey Ranch, where we get to know our donkeys and receive an introduction on how to handle and care for them—after all, both humans and animals should feel comfortable together!
After packing our long-eared companions, we set off on our adventure. At a leisurely donkey pace, we hike through olive groves, vineyards, and wild nature towards Sant Climent and Espolla. Those continuing to Rabós can reach a picnic spot by the riverbank. Here, in the refreshingly cool waters of the Orlina, we have the chance to swim! If we approach quietly, we may even spot some turtles basking in the sun.
After a delicious picnic and a relaxing siesta, we continue our journey. The route gently ascends, leading us past another dolmen to a mountain pass. Ahead of us stretches a picturesque valley, offering a wonderful view of the sea! Once we’ve enjoyed this spot, we head downhill again, passing wild nature. The sound of a river accompanies us on our way to Rabós, where we conclude this beautiful hiking day.
Day 2: Olive Groves, Vineyards, and Monuments
Destination: Rabós/Espolla – Donkey Ranch
Distance: From Rabós 15 km / From Espolla 11 km
Elevation: +270 / -200
After a hearty breakfast, we are energized and ready for the return journey.
Our route takes us through the streets of Rabós, leaving the village towards Espolla. We hike past vineyards and olive groves, taking in the sights of the landscape.
We pass through Espolla and continue on our way. It’s a bit of an ascent, but the breathtaking view of the mountains makes the effort worthwhile. Soon, we reach the Menhir de la Mutra, the largest standing stone in the region. At this beautiful spot, we take a break and enjoy a delicious picnic.
After the break, we continue at a leisurely pace. Accompanied by the scent of wild herbs along the way, we eventually reach an “Estany”—a rainwater pond—and pass by a dolmen. This megalithic structure exudes the charm of the past and a touch of mystery!
Before returning to the Donkey Ranch, we pass by a vineyard. Those who wish can stop here to taste the wine. Next to the farm, there is a lovely spot to take a break by the river. Following the river, we reach Sant Climent and finally return to the donkey pasture.
Highlights
• Mediterranean landscape with vineyards and olive groves
• Wine tasting on a small organic farm
• Millennia, Celtic monuments (menhir and dolmen)
• Wild Nature
• Spending the night under the stars
• Swimming in the river Orlina
Organize Your Trekking:
On the Rent a donkey page, you will find the prices for the donkey and information on how the tours are organized.
Overnight in Espolla:Can Salas
Website: http://www.cansalasespolla.com
Phone: +34 660 15 47 47
Email: cansalasespolla@gmail.com
Price: Double room 65€/night including breakfast
Overnight in Rabós: Casa Rabós
Website: https://airbnb-catalogne-rabos.com
Phone: +34 972 56 39 03 / +34 664 52 03 36
Email: casarabos@gmail.com
Price: 66€ (Double room)
Option for Overnight Camping/Bivouac in Espolla:
Please contact Burrotrek
Option for Overnight Camping in Rabós:
Bio Farm/Campsite: https://www.mastrespuig.com
Phone: +34 696 673 009 or +34 633 700 410
Email: info@mastrespuig.com
Pre- and Post-Trip Accommodation Option:
Sant Climent Sescebes: El Pati de l’Albera
Website: Cal Peo
Phone: +34 671 90 73 08
Email: caterpilar@gmail.com
Price: Double room 75€/including breakfast