Walking the Cathar Trail (Camí dels Bons Homes) isn’t about age, it’s about rhythm and preparation. There are people in their 70s who complete it with ease, and others much younger who give up after the second day. The key is to know your body, adapt the route, and go at your own pace.

Many walkers write to us worried about the difficulty of the route or about knee pain. That’s why we’ve gathered some practical tips to help you enjoy the trail safely and confidently.

 1. Take care of your knees before and during the hike

• Use trekking poles, especially on descents: they greatly reduce the impact on your joints.

• Do gentle stretches before and after walking.

• If you experience discomfort, plan shorter stages or choose sections with less elevation gain.

• A physiotherapist can suggest strengthening exercises to prepare your legs and protect your knees

 2. Choose your own way to do the trail

You don’t need to walk all the stages in a row or complete the entire route at once.

• You can split long stages or focus on the most scenic and accessible sections.

• There are luggage transfer services and rural taxis that make walking easier and lighter.

• If in doubt, the trail’s accommodations and offices can help you design a personalized itinerary.

3. Prepare your body and your gear

• Walk regularly in the weeks before (around 8–10 km per day is a good start).

• Choose comfortable hiking boots and technical socks to avoid blisters.

• Carry a light backpack with only what’s essential.

• Stay hydrated and take short breaks to snack and rest.

 4. Enjoy the journey, not the hurry

The Cathar Trail is meant to be lived, observed, and breathed. Each stage offers landscapes, villages, and stories worth discovering at a calm pace.

Remember: it’s not about arriving fast, it’s about enjoying the journey fully.