The Chemin des Bonshommes is a trail Great hike exceptional (GR-107). He crosses both Ariège on the France side starting from Foix and ending in Berga in Catalonia in the Berguedà region. Its 224 kilometers of path will make you experience a unforgettable adventure, cross resplendent landscapes and above all discover the history of the Cathars (also called men) who fled the inquisition by taking this same path.

The path in numbers

  • Number of steps: 13 – 7 which cross Ariège, 2 which cross the Pyrénées-Orientales and 6 which cross Berguedà.
  • Number of kilometers to travel: 224 km distance
  • Number of hours of walking per day: 5h15 on average. Running from 03:00 a.m. to 08:15 a.m.
Stéphane Meurisse / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

Head to Roquefixade Castle!

Information you need to know about the route

  • The departure is at Foix in Ariège (France) and the arrival at Berga in Berguedà (Catalonia)
  • The Marking is Red and white
  • The total elevation gain of the route is 7989m cumulative positive and -7241m negative cumulative height difference
  • A good physical condition and knowledge hiking are strongly recommended. - You can do this trail on foot, on horseback or by mountain bike.

Did you know ? 🤔

In 2022 the Chemin des Bons hommes is elected the 3rd favorite GR of the French! 🏆

My favorite GR, season 5!

The stages of the path of the men

[🇫🇷] Step 1: Montgailhard (you can reach Montgailhard from Foix by shuttle or on foot, all the information is here) From Montgailhard to Roquefixade • 17 km • Around 5 hours of walking
[🇫🇷] Step 2: From Roquefixade to Montségur • 17 km • Approximately 4h05 walk
[🇫🇷] Step 3: From Montségur to Comus • 16 km • Around 4 hours of walking
[🇫🇷] Step 4: From Comus to the Chioula refuge • 14 km • Around 4 hours of walking
[🇫🇷] Step 5: From the Chioula refuge to Orgeix • 11 km • Approximately 3 hours drive
[🇫🇷] Step 6: From Orgeix to Mérens-les-Vals • 18 km • Around 6 hours of walking
[🇫🇷] Step 7: From Mérens-les-Vals to Porta via L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre and Porté-Puymorens – 22km – Around 6 hours of walking
[🇫🇷] / [🇪🇸] Step 8: From Porta to Cabana dels Esparvers via Portella Blanca • 16 km • Approximately 4 hours of walking
[🇪🇸] Step 9: From Cabana dels Esparvers to Bellver de Cerdanya • 20 km • Approximately 4h40 walk
[🇪🇸] Step 10: From Bellver de Cerdanya to Baga • 22 km • Approximately 6h30 walk
[🇪🇸] Step 11: From Baga to Gosol • 18 km • Around 6 hours of walking
[🇪🇸] Step 12 (2 alternatives): From Gosol to Cal Barrut • 23 km • Approximately 8h15 walk ou from Gosol to Refugi Rasos de Peguera • 21 km • About 8 hours of walking
[🇪🇸] Step 13 (2 alternatives): From Cal Barbut to Berga • 20 km • Approximately 6h30 walk ou from Refugi Rasos de Peguera to Berga – 15 km – Around 5 hours of walking

Oscar Rodbag / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

The incredible castle of Montségur

The 10 most beautiful spots on the path of the snowmen

This exceptional crossing of Pyrenees will offer you moments out of time. Many are the points of interest not to be missed on the way, we have selected our favorite spots, those who will leave you with a memory imperishable of your roaming.

Town and castle of Foix
Stéphane Meurisse / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

01

The county town of Foix and its fortified castle

In the heart of the town of Foix, you will discover small colorful streets, half-timbered houses and of course the Château de Foix overlooking the town. The Chemin des Bonshomme adventure is off to a good start!

Visit the town of Foix

Roquefixade castle at sunset
Oscar Rodbag / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

02

The Cathar castle of Roquefixade

Opposite Montségur is the Roquefixade castle. You will be charmed by this castle overlooking the village of the same name, which is worth a visit.

Guided visit to Montségur Castle
Stéphane Meurisse / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

03

The monumental castle of Montségur

Bastion of the history of Catharism, Montségur is impressive. On its rocky spur, it dominates and offers those who venture within it a 360° view of the Pyrenees. It is here that the last Cathars were sent to the stake. To fully understand the history of the castle, it is strongly recommended to take the guided tour.

Panoramic viewpoint at Col du Chioula
Stéphane Meurisse / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

04

The Chioula pass and its breathtaking panorama

In the heart of the Pyrenees, you will appreciate the wild Chioula pass and its panoramic view of the Ariège Pyrenees. It is a peaceful place, where you can fully enjoy the pure mountain air while being amazed.

Village of Orgeix in the Ariège Pyrenees
Oscar Rodbag / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

05

The picturesque village of Orgeix

The village of Orgeix is ​​a marvel of the Ariège Pyrenees. It's impossible not to fall in love with this little village. We can see the Pyrenees while being lulled by the sound of the Oriège which flows nearby. Pure happiness.

Spa town of Ax-les-Thermes
Our traveling hearts / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

06

The spa town of Ax-les-Thermes

Have you ever seen hot springs in the heart of a village? So you've never been to Ax-les-Thermes. The city's sulfurous waters are freely accessible in 2 pools, where you can dip your feet after your hike. Exhilarating moment of relaxation guaranteed!

Romanesque church of Mérens-les-Vals
Oscar Rodbag / Ariège Pyrénées Tourism

07

The surprising church of Mérens-les-Vals

In the heart of the mountain, in a green setting, nestles the beautiful Romanesque church of Mérens-les-Vals. It is an integral part of the history of the village in the XNUMXth century.

Small village of Gosol in Catalonia
Roxane Baños

08

The Catalan town of Gosol

With its cobbled streets and houses with light facades, it is pleasant to walk in Gosol. You can climb to the top of the village and admire the view from the ruins of its castle. It's a real Catalan gem.

La pedra forca in Catalonia
Roxane Baños

09

The majestic PedraForca

A true wonder of nature, the Pedraforca known as “forked rock” is easily recognizable with its two singular points. From the top of his 2
506 m above sea level, the Pedraforca massif will make you feel very small.

Santa Maria de Queralt in Catalonia on the path of the snowmen
Roxane Baños

10

The sanctuary of Santa Maria de Queralt

At the peak of the trail, you will not be disappointed to end at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Queralt. It’s a real balcony over Catalonia. In addition to its sublime baroque architecture, you will appreciate the breathtaking view of the surrounding lush forests.


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