A guidebook for following the Via Tolosana to Spain
This guidebook accompanies hikers on the GR®653, between Toulouse and Jaca. It covers the final section of the Via Tolosana, also known as the Arles route, before entering Spain.
The route thus allows you to join the Camino Francés after crossing the Pyrenees. Unlike other Camino routes, this one does not pass through Roncesvalles. It crosses the mountains via the Somport Pass, at an altitude of 1,632 meters.
This pass is the highest point on the trails to Santiago de Compostela. It therefore gives this route a strong identity, combining a pilgrimage, a Pyrenean crossing, and the discovery of Aragon.
More than 20 days of hiking from Toulouse to Jaca
The guidebook describes more than 20 days of hiking starting from Toulouse. First, the route leaves Toulouse (the "Pink City") and crosses Gascony. Then, it reaches northern Bigorre and Béarn.
Further on, the path enters the Aspe Valley. This section marks the approach to the Pyrenees. Finally, the GR®653 crosses the Somport Pass before entering Aragon, Spain, and continuing to Jaca.
Moreover, the route traverses diverse landscapes. Villages, valleys, agricultural landscapes, religious heritage, and the Pyrenean peaks punctuate the walk. The guide is therefore useful for planning a complete pilgrimage, but also for walking sections of the route.
A reliable guide for preparing your Camino de Santiago
Like other FFRandonnée guidebooks, this book helps you organize each stage. It allows you to follow the trail markers, calculate distances, and anticipate more challenging sections.
It is aimed at pilgrims who wish to continue the Arles route into Spain. It is also suitable for hikers drawn to the major Camino de Santiago routes and Pyrenean crossings.
Finally, this new 2026 edition updates a much-anticipated guidebook. Routes to Santiago de Compostela remain highly sought after, and the "Path to Santiago de Compostela" guidebooks regularly appear among the best-selling GR® guides.
Guidebook Highlights:
- Guidebook dedicated to the GR®653
- Final section of the Via Tolosana / Arles route
- Route from Toulouse to Jaca
- More than 20 days of hiking
- Crossing Gascony, Bigorre, and Béarn
- Passing through the Aspe Valley
- Crossing the Pyrenees via the Somport Pass
- Meeting point at 1,632 m altitude
- Connection with Spain and the Camino Francés
- New 2026 edition, 4th edition
- FFRandonnée guidebook, Grande Randonnée collection
FAQ
What route does this GR®653 guidebook cover?
This guidebook covers the GR®653 from Toulouse to Jaca. It is the final section of the Via Tolosana before entering Spain.
Is the Via Tolosana the same as the Arles route?
Yes. The Via Tolosana is also known as the Arles Way. It is one of the major French routes to Santiago de Compostela.
How does this route cross the Pyrenees?
The GR®653 crosses the Pyrenees via the Somport Pass, at an altitude of 1,632 meters. This is the highest point on the Camino de Santiago.
Does this guidebook allow you to join the Camino Francés?
Yes. After crossing into Spain, the route enters Aragon and allows you to continue towards the Camino Francés.
Is this guidebook suitable for a multi-day hike?
Yes. It is designed to help you plan more than 20 days of walking between Toulouse and Jaca. It can also be used to hike the route in sections.
