As he approaches a milestone birthday, former British Cabinet Minister and broadcaster Michael Portillo embarks on a journey of self-discovery, walking stretches of the Pyrenees mountain range between Spain and France.
Travelling from the coast of the Atlantic Ocean to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Michael will criss-cross the border, meeting the people who call this place home and learning about their unique culture and way of life. He will test himself physically as he faces the arduous terrain of the high snowy peaks, whilst enduring moments of solitude in which he will reflect on his own life.
Series One, Episode Three: A Spiritual Quest
Michael Portillo continues his Pyrenean challenge, this time in the wild beauty of South-West France’s Ariege region. Embarking on a journey of discovery, braving relentless rain, he begins by visiting a young couple from Luxembourg who left city life behind to become pig farmers. Michael ends his day at an abbey in the company of Benedictine nuns.
Portillo In The Pyrenees – New Episode/Saturday, 18 February at 8.30pm on SBS and SBS on Demand (4 Parts)