3–4 Day Trail – The Magic Backcountry of the Mediterranean

Destination: Burrotrek – Cantallops
Distance: 12 km
Elevation: ↑↓ +180 m / -100 m

Your adventure begins at the Donkey Ranch in Vilarnadal, where you’ll meet your friendly donkey companions and learn how to care for and guide them along the trail.

Setting off at a donkey’s pace, you’ll follow paths through cork oak forests that wind through the fragrant Mediterranean landscape and gentle rolling hills. As you approach Cantallops, a charming village nestled among vineyards and olive groves, you’ll enjoy the quiet rhythm of rural life and stunning views across the Empordà – a picturesque region of Catalonia known for its rolling vineyards, olive groves, medieval villages, and sweeping views that stretch from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you’ll spend the night in a cozy apartment, surrounded by the natural beauty that defines this hidden Mediterranean world.

Destination: Cantallops – Espolla

Distance: 14 km

Elevation:↑↓ +182 m / -157m

or

Destination: Cantallops- Requescens – Espolla

Distance: 11 km – 11km

Elevation: ↑↓ +442 / -192m – ↑↓ -355m/ +62m

Depending on whether you have three or four days for this adventure, today’s stage will vary. You can either walk from Cantallops to the Castle of Requesens and spend the night in the rural accommodation of the small hamlet, or head directly to Espolla.

In both cases, the day begins with a gentle climb to a hilltop with sweeping views of the Mediterranean coast. If your route takes you directly to Espolla, you’ll pass a small river – a perfect spot for a refreshing break – before heading downhill through shady cork oak forests and past impressive granite rock formations, arriving in the charming village of Espolla.

If you choose to extend the journey to Requesens, the trail leads to one of the Albera’s most fascinating landmarks. The Castle of Requesens is a striking medieval fortress with origins in the 11th century. Perched on a mountainside, it boasts high towers, sturdy stone walls, and panoramic views stretching from the Pyrenees to the sea. Its remote location and dramatic silhouette make it feel like stepping back in time. After exploring the surroundings of the Castle, you’ll spend the night in the quiet hamlet beside it.

Destination: Espolla – Burrotrek

Distance:  11km

Elevation: +270 / -220

Leaving Espolla, the trail winds through vineyards and olive groves, passing an ancient dolmen that recalls the region’s prehistoric past. You soon meet the gentle flow of the Anyet River, following it toward Sant Climent Sescebes, where you can pause for a refreshing drink in a local bar. From here, the route continues through shady cork oak and pine forests before arriving back in Vilarnadal. As the Donkey Ranch comes into view, your journey through the magic backcountry of the Albera comes to a close.