14 days exploring the Pyrenees from East to West + Barcelona
From the Mediterranean coast to the heart of Spain’s high country, this 14-day expedition crosses the Pyrenees from east to west, blending world-class fly fishing with authentic Spanish culture and language immersion. After arriving in Barcelona, we’ll head north into the mountains to fish pristine alpine rivers, spring-fed streams, and remote high-country lakes accessible through our exclusive local permits.
The Spanish Pyrenees are one of Europe’s most underrated fly-fishing regions and were a favorite of Ernest Hemingway, who immortalized their beauty in The Sun Also Rises. Anglers will target the endemic and highly prized wild zebra trout, along with barbel, brown trout, and brook trout — all amid dramatic, snow-capped mountain scenery and crystal-clear water. Midway through the expedition, we’ll shift gears for a day pursuing Wels catfish, one of the world’s largest freshwater predators, capable of exceeding eight feet in length.
Along the way, we’ll explore centuries-old mountain villages, enjoy famous regional home-cooked cuisine, and practice conversational Spanish in historical settings that capture the spirit of old-world Europe. Accommodations include a mix of 4-star hotels, mountain refuges, and historic lodges, each chosen for comfort, authenticity, and proximity to the water.
We’ll conclude the journey with a final few days back in Barcelona, spending time on the beach, taking part in a paella cooking class, and experiencing the seaside Catalan Mediterranean culture that makes the city so unforgettable.
Every day offers a new adventure — untouched alpine landscapes, wild trout, and cultural experiences few travelers ever encounter. This once-in-a-lifetime expedition is perfect for anglers who want to combine incredible fishing with genuine exploration and the unforgettable rhythm of life in Spain’s high country.
Upcoming Trips
| Dates | Cost | Arrive/Depart Location |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 14 - Jun 27, 2026 | $5,600 |
Barcelona, Spain |
- Ages
-
Entering 9th GradeEntering 10th GradeEntering 11th GradeEntering 12th Grade
- Community Service
-
3 Hours
- What to Bring
-
We have put together a list of all that you will need for a successful and comfortable expedition. We offer a rental program for most of the big ticket items like fly rods, reels, sleeping bags, etc.. If you are already enrolled, you can rent gear by logging into your account at: https://lillard.campintouch.com/v2/login/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f and navigating to Forms & Documents —> Rental Options.
Highlights
- Fly fishing in exclusive, remote areas with high populations of trout and brook trout, 100% dry fly
- Fish for Europe’s most ancestral trout, the zebra trout, a brown trout variety that survived the last glaciation
- Special day targeting catfish, one of the largest freshwater species in the world which can exceed 8' in length
- Experience the culture and lifestyle of hidden Spain
- Alternating adventure in shepherd cabins and mountain refuges with comfort in 4-star hotels
Arrival in Barcelona and transfer to the Pyrenees base camp
Day 1
Welcome to Spain! Upon arrival at Barcelona Airport, we'll gather as a group before heading to Hotel Cases in La Guingueta d’Àneu, next to the Alt Pirineu Natural Park. After check-in and team introductions, we will enjoy dinner and prep for the first day of fishing.
Trout fishing in the lakes and rivers of Alt Pirineu
Day 2-3
For two days, we will explore high-altitude alpine lakes and rivers to fish for aggressive brook trout. During our hikes through the mountains, we'll hope to spot chamois, golden eagles, and even brown bears. Nights are spent at Hotel Cases.
Change of base and fishing in Aigüestortes National Park
Day 4
After a couple days of lake fishing, we'll move to Barruera and fish a mountain river in the Arán Valley, followed by an afternoon session at a great fishing reserve known for large brown and zebra trout. Overnight at Hostal Noray.
Trophy trout on the Noguera Ribagorzana River
Day 5
We'll fish for big trout in Spain’s so-called “Jurassic River,” with a break to enjoy traditional paella. Return to Hostal Noray for dinner and rest.
Educational day and accessible fishing
Day 6
Visit a local wildlife recovery center and fish hatchery to learn about native trout conservation, enjoy fishing, and swimming in the river or village pool. Overnight at Hostal Noray.
Cultural and gastronomic tour
Day 7
Travel through picturesque Pyrenean villages such as Aínsa and Alquézar, with guided tours, tapas, and live music. Arrive at the mountain refuge for dinner and rest.
Zebra Trout in Emerald Rivers
Day 8-9
Two days of fishing in the headwaters of the Ara River and nearby mountain lakes, targeting wild zebra trout in remote settings. Nights spent in mountain refuges, returning to Jaca for comfortable accommodation at the end of Day 9.
Brook Trout in mountain streams
Day 10
A full day of hiking and fishing in mountain rivers, returning to the historic Hospedería Monasterio Nuestra Señora de Rueda on the Ebro River for the night.
Erbo River Monsters
Day 11
Full-day guided fishing on the Ebro River, targeting Europe’s largest freshwater fish. Lunch by the river and dinner at the hospedería.
Experience Barcelona
Day 12
Return to Barcelona for a paella cooking class and visit to Mercat de la Boquería, followed by a bike tour through the Eixample district, a Street Escape at Casa Batlló, and a tapas dinner.
Adventure in Barcelona
Day 13
Adventure day in Barcelona: Sunrise SUP, visit to the Moco Museum, Montjuïc cable car ride, exploration of Montjuïc Castle and viewpoints, sunset at the port, and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc show -- full immersion in the city’s culture and landscapes.
Departure Day
Day 14
Breakfast and morning briefing before heading to Barcelona Airport for return flights.
- Brown Trout
- Zebra Trout
- Brook Trout
- Barbel
- Catfish: up to 8' feet in length!
Is prior fly fishing experience required to participate in the expeditions?
Some prior experience in fly fishing and the ability to cast at medium distances are recommended for this expedition.
How do we guarantee personalized attention and safety on our fly fishing
expeditions?
Our expeditions stand out for offering personalized attention, with a ratio of 3 clients
per fly fishing guide and transportation in exclusive vehicles. This ensures that each
participant receives the support needed to improve their fly fishing skills in a safe
environment.
What types of accommodations will the participants be staying in?
We will stay in six different places:
Hotel Casés (https://www.hotelcases.com/), Hostal Noray
(https://www.norayestances.com/es/hotels/barruera/hostal-noray), Bujaruelo Refuge
(https://www.refugiodebujaruelo.com/), Cerbillonar Cabin, Hotel Charlé
(https://hotelcharlejaca.com/), and Hospedería del Monasterio de Rueda
(https://realmonasterioderueda.es/la-hospederia/).
Are there any additional costs beyond the price listed on the website?
The following are not included in the program fee: travel and cancellation insurance,
fishing equipment (available for rent), and personal expenses such as gifts or any
purchases outside the scheduled program, especially during the stay in Barcelona.
Do you offer rental fishing equipment?
Yes, we offer rental services for waders, boots, rods, and reels.
What types of flies should I use for fishing?
We will send you a PDF with recommendations for dry flies, nymphs, and streamers
suitable for this expedition. Additionally, we will prepare a selection of flies for you to
use alongside your own flies during the trip.
Can the expedition route change?
Yes. Each year, river conditions and flow rates may vary, so this itinerary represents the
standard plan we will follow under normal conditions. The route may be modified if
necessary, always aiming to guarantee the best fly fishing experience and provide top-
quality service for our participants.
Will I have mobile signal and Wi-Fi access during the trip to communicate with my
family?
Yes, all accommodations during the expedition have mobile signal and Wi-Fi, allowing
communication with family. However, at the Cerbillonar cabin, located in a remote
mountainous area, there will be no mobile signal or internet. During
this time, the guide will carry a mobile phone for emergencies and access to emergency
contacts if needed.
What is required to travel to Spain?
A valid passport with a visa (if required) is necessary for the duration of the stay
in the European Union.
Participants must also have travel health insurance covering any illness that may
occur during the expedition.
Accident and liability insurance is included only for the guided river fishing
activity, regardless of whether participants are from the EU or not.
