Barcelona

CAVALLS DEL VENT: TREK KILIAN JORNET'S PYRENEES

Hiking

What you'll do

The Cavalls del Vent is an immersive journey through the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, where legends are forged. This circular traverse links mountain refuges through the dramatic Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, a spectacular limestone barrier dividing the Pre-Pyrenees from the high peaks. For decades, these mountains served as Kilian Jornet's playground, where one of the greatest mountain athletes of all time lived, trained, and honed his extraordinary endurance on these very slopes.

The route covers approximately 84 kilometers with nearly 4,800 meters of cumulative elevation gain across five challenging yet achievable hiking days. Traverse alpine meadows, cross rugged passes reaching above 2,400 meters, walk panoramic ridgelines with views stretching to Pedraforca, and descend through lush forests harboring hidden valleys. This is also the legendary Ultra Pirineu course—one of the world's most iconic trail running events held annually on these paths.

With this refuge-to-refuge trekking, you can live the unforgettable feeling of walking through a landscape shaped by mountain legends.

Itinerary

Day 1: Barcelona to the Mountains

The adventure begins with a group meeting at 1 PM at Plaza de España or at the airport at 2 PM. You'll connect with fellow trekkers and your INFINI-certified mountain guide. Board your private minivan for the scenic drive (around 2 hours) into the Pyrenees. Watch the landscape transform as Barcelona's urban sprawl gives way to rolling foothills, then dramatic mountain scenery. Arrive at Refugi de Rebost, positioned at the southern entrance of Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, where the circular Cavalls del Vent journey begins. After introductions and a comprehensive trek briefing covering the route, safety protocols, and what to expect, settle into the refuge, enjoy dinner surrounded by limestone peaks, and rest well—tomorrow, you step onto Kilian Jornet's legendary training ground.

Day 2: From the Forest to the Ridge

A long and rewarding stage that takes you through the full character of the Cadí-Moixeró massif in a single push. Departing Refugi de Rebost at 1,614 meters, the trail climbs steadily through mixed forest before breaking out onto the high ridge, where the landscape opens dramatically. The route traces the crest near Penyes Altes de Moixeró and Pic del Moixeró (2,090 m), delivering the kind of sustained, airy ridge walking that defines Pyrenean traverses—big skies, sweeping views over La Cerdanya valley, and distant Andorran summits on the horizon. After reaching the high point at around 2,220 meters, a long descending arc through alpine terrain and sheltered forest brings you down to the welcoming Refugi Serrat de les Esposes. A demanding day, but one that captures the full essence of the range. Distance: 15.4 km (9.6 mi) | Elevation gain: +908 m (2,979 ft) - 1,019 m (3,343 ft) | Time: 7 hours

Day 3: High Passes and Quieter Corners to Prat d'Aguiló

Today's route explores quieter corners of the park, threading through high mountain paths where solitude amplifies the landscape's grandeur. Climb to Pas dels Bous at approximately 2,253 meters, a natural mountain pass offering wide views across the Cadí-Moixeró massif. The ridge traverse provides sustained panoramic walking—the kind of exposed, airy hiking that makes the Pyrenees legendary—before reaching the high-altitude Refugi Prat d'Aguiló. This remote refuge sits in alpine terrain where the landscape feels bigger, wilder, and more elemental. Tonight's sunset from this elevated position, watching light paint the surrounding peaks orange and pink, will stay with you long after the trek ends. Distance: 16.5 km (10.3 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,120 m (3,675 ft) - 630 m (2,067 ft) | Time: 7 hours

Day 4: Segadors Route and Pedraforca Views

Follow the historic Segadors Route, a path steeped in Catalan mountain culture, climbing to Pas dels Gosolans at around 2,430 meters—the trek's highest point. From this dramatic col, the iconic Pedraforca Mountain dominates the northern skyline, its distinctive twin-peaked silhouette rising like a stone monument to Pyrenean grandeur. Photographers will burn through memory cards here. The descent into the picturesque Gresolet valley brings a complete landscape change: from exposed alpine passes to sheltered, green valleys where forests provide welcome shade, and the terrain softens. Refugi Gresolet offers an intimate refuge charm in a stunning natural amphitheater setting. Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi) | Elevation gain: +600 m (1,969 ft) - 1,380 m (4,528 ft) | Time: 6.5 hours

Day 5: Forest Depths to Sant Jordi

A beautifully varied stage crossing lush forests, open meadows, and dramatic limestone formations that showcase the park's geological diversity. The route threads through areas like Empedrats and Sant Martí del Puig, where centuries-old paths connect remote valleys. Descend into a deep forest where the trail feels ancient and intimate, the canopy filtering sunlight into cathedral-like beams. Refugi Sant Jordi awaits hidden in the woods—a cozy, atmospheric refuge where the forest setting creates a sense of peaceful isolation. This is Pyrenean trekking at its essence: varied terrain, sustained effort, and the reward of a welcoming refuge at day's end. Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,060 m (3,478 ft) - 730 m (2,395 ft) | Time: 6 hours

Day 6: Completing the Circle

The final stage brings you full circle through classic forest trails and mountain paths, passing near Gréixer before climbing gently back toward Refugi de Rebost. Though legs are tired after five days of sustained mountain travel, there's satisfaction in every step—you're completing one of the Pyrenees' great traverses. Arrival at Rebost marks the circuit's completion: 84 kilometers and nearly 4,800 meters of elevation gain across some of Catalonia's most spectacular protected wilderness. After a final refuge lunch, board the private minivan for the return journey to Barcelona (drop off around 4.30 PM in Plaza de España or around 5.15 PM at the airport), replaying highlights and exchanging contact information with new mountain friends. You've walked Kilian Jornet's training ground—now you understand why these mountains forge legends. Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi) | Elevation gain: +980 m (3,215 ft) - 800 m (2,625 ft) | Time: 5.5 hours

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

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What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

UIMLA Guide

All breakfast

Hut accommodation

All dinners

All lunches

Taxi transfer from/to Barcelona city/airport

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Extra food and drinks

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Expenditure of personal nature

Extra accommodation in Barcelona

Accommodations

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Refugi de Rebost (Day 1)

Gateway refuge at the southern entrance of Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, where the Cavalls del Vent circuit begins and ends. Traditional mountain hospitality with dormitory accommodations and hearty meals, providing the perfect start and celebratory finish to your circular journey through the Pyrenees.

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Refugi Serrat de les Esposes (Day 2)

Traditional mountain refuge offering dormitory-style sleeping, hearty mountain meals (dinner, breakfast, packed lunch), and the warm hospitality Pyrenean refuges are famous for. Basic but comfortable accommodations perfect for trekkers who've earned their rest through a full day's hiking.

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Refugi Prat d'Aguiló (Day 3)

High-altitude refuge positioned in spectacular alpine terrain, providing elevated refuge experience both literally and figuratively. Full board includes dinner, breakfast, and packed lunch. The setting and sunset views justify the higher elevation and price.

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Refugi Gresolet (Day 4)

Intimate refuge nestled in the picturesque Gresolet valley, offering cozy dormitory accommodations and full mountain hospitality. The sheltered valley setting provides a contrast to the exposed high routes of previous days.

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Refugi Sant Jordi (Day 5)

Atmospheric forest refuge hidden deep in the woods, offering traditional Pyrenean refuge charm with full board service. The secluded forest location creates a peaceful, immersive mountain experience.

Guides

Infini Guides

Infini Guides offers expert-led, immersive trekking experiences in some of the world’s most stunning mountain landscapes. From classic routes to hidden trails, their carefully crafted itineraries combine adventure, culture, and nature.