3–5 Day Donkey Trekking – A Journey through the Pre-Pyrenees

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This trail leads you through cork oak forests, along rivers, and through remote nature.

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Refreshing Rivers and Mystic Forests

This donkey trail leads you on a wide circular route around the Pantà de Boadella, a crystal-clear lake nestled among the rolling hills and rugged mountains of the Pre-Pyrenees. In this quiet and remote corner of the Alt Empordà region, you’ll wander through cork oak forests, discover charming medieval villages, and enjoy breathtaking views across a wild and unspoiled landscape.

The paths are easy to follow and the walking stages are pleasantly short, giving you plenty of time to stop for a swim in the rivers or the lake — a refreshing highlight on warm summer days! This route is ideal for families with children, or as a first donkey trekking and camping adventure for anyone wanting to experience nature at a gentle pace.

The trail starts and ends in Darnius, a small, charming mountain village located about 40 km from the Costa Brava.

You can complete the route in 3 to 5 days if staying in local accommodations, or in 3 to 7 days if you prefer to camp with your donkey along the way.

– See the trail map below for a clearer overview of the route.

Preis

Please see the Price section on our website for donkey rental rates, where you will also find information about how the routes are organized.

Route Detail

Darnius – La Vajol

Distance: 8,3 km

Elevation: +482/ -144

or if you skip La Vajol

Darnius – Maçanet de Cabrenys

Distance: 11km

Difference in altitude: +531m / – 360m

After a friendly introduction to donkey care, saddling, and packing, your adventure begins! 🐾
From Darnius, the trail leads you to La Vajol, a small mountain village in the Las Salinas range. Along the way, you’ll pass by a fascinating dolmen, a 6,000-year-old megalithic grave that connects you directly with ancient history.

When you reach La Vajol, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view over the Empordà all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you can spend the night in a welcoming and simple pension – the perfect place to rest before continuing your journey.

La Vajol – Maçanet de Cabrenys

Distance: 12,3

Elevation: +302/-473

From La Vajol, the trail gently descends toward Maçanet de Cabrenys. Along the way, you’ll pass an old talc mine and discover a charming fountain surrounded by centuries-old cork oak trees.

You’ll also wander through the picturesque village of Maçanet de Cabrenys, full of rustic charm and history. Before reaching your campsite, take a refreshing break at the natural swimming pools along the river – a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

Your overnight stay is on a charming campsite, where you can either relax in a cozy wooden bungalow or bring your own tent and enjoy sleeping under the stars.

Maçanet de Cabrenys – St. Lorenç de la Muga

Distance: 11,5 km

Difference in altitude: +392m /- 586m

Passing through shady cork oak forests, you’ll cross over the gentle mountain ridge and descend into the peaceful valley of the Muga River. The path winds through green hills until you reach the picturesque medieval village of Sant Llorenç de la Muga.
The Muga River carries cool, clear water from the mountains on the French border all the way to the Mediterranean Sea, flowing into the sparkling Pantà de Boadella along its way.

You can spend the night at Camping la Fradera, either in a comfortable bungalow or in your own tent, surrounded by nature and the soothing sounds of the forest and river.

For those looking for extra adventure, you can extend the route and camp in the wild mountains, following the GR11 trail towards Albanyà before descending to Sant Llorenç de la Muga.
For sporty hikers, it’s also possible to hike from Camping Maçanet to Camping Bassegoda Park in Albanyà (approx. 18 km) — a scenic stage through untouched mountain landscapes.
Or, if you prefer to take it easy, you can spend the night camping by the Pantà de Boadella, falling asleep under a starlit sky with the gentle sound of water nearby — a perfect ending to a peaceful day with your donkey.

St. Llorenç de la Muga- Mare de deu de la Salut

Distance: 10,6 km

Elevation: +541/ -413

or, if you skip Mare de Déu d la Salut in Terrades

St. Lorenç de la Muga- Darnius

Distance: 11,5 km

Difference in altitude: + 451m / – 426m

Today’s hike begins with a stroll through the medieval village of Sant Llorenç de la Muga, with its narrow streets and historic charm. From there, the trail leads you into the shady forests, offering a peaceful and refreshing walk surrounded by nature.

The path then climbs gently upward until you reach the hotel at Mare de Déu de la Salut in Terrades. From here, you have the option to take a short detour – about 1.5 km uphill – to visit the Ermita, a small hermitage with stunning panoramic views over the region. It’s a perfect spot to pause, breathe, and take in the landscape.

Santuari de la Salut – Darnius

Distance: 11,5km

Elevation: +451/ -426

On your final day, the trail leads you gently downhill to the small village of Boadella. From there, you follow the Muga River until you reach the impressive dam and the sparkling Pantano de Boadella. The clear water is especially inviting for a refreshing swim – a perfect way to pause and enjoy the moment.

Depending on the water level, you may be able to walk directly along the lakeshore. The path then takes you gradually uphill again, passing a scenic mirador with wonderful views, before you finally return to Darnius, where your donkey adventure began.

Trail Options & Itinerary

3-Day Option (Accommodation or Tent)

A relaxed circular route for a shorter hike:
Darnius → Maçanet de Cabrenys → Sant Llorenç de la Muga → Darnius
- Suitable for families, beginners, or those who prefer less days.
- You can stay in accommodations or bring your own tent along the way and camp at the Campsites.
4-Day Option – Easy or Sporty Variant (Accommodation or Tent)

A slightly longer route with flexibility depending on your preference:
- Skip La Vajol (Day 1)
- Skip the Santuari de Terrades (Day 4 )
Tent Trek 5-6 Days Adventure (Camping & Biwak)

For those who want the full outdoor experience with tent camping:
Darnius → Camping Maçanet → La Trilla (Biwak) → Camping Albanyà → Camping Sant Llorenç de la Muga → Biwak by the lake(can be skipped) → Darnius
- A complete circular route with multiple overnight stops in campsites and biwaks.
- Perfect for nature lovers and more experienced hikers who enjoy sleeping under the stars.