Catalonia's Pyrenees: Europe's Sustainable Travel Secret

The Pyrenees of Catalonia are emerging as a European leader in responsible tourism, with the El Cinquè Llac route serving as a prime example. This 100km, five-day circular hike traverses diverse landscapes, promoting a low-impact travel ethos. Visitors are encouraged to utilize public transport, such as the Tren dels Llacs heritage railway, to reach the starting point in La Pobla de Segur, minimizing their environmental footprint.

Sustainability extends to the culinary experience, with an emphasis on locally sourced mountain cuisine, including traditional dishes, regional mushrooms, and local wines. Accommodation is provided by a network of six rural guesthouses. These establishments, run by passionate locals, not only offer charming stays in medieval villages but also reinvest booking income into maintaining historic trails and leading conservation initiatives like dry-stone wall restoration.

The route itself unfolds over five days, passing through historic villages and offering breathtaking views of lakes and valleys, many within a Unesco Global Geopark. Each stage presents opportunities to connect with the region's natural biodiversity and cultural heritage, culminating at the tranquil Montcortès Lake, celebrating a journey deeply rooted in environmental consciousness.