Baillestavy walks

A lovely walk through the woods, very pleasant in autumn with its many colours. At the pass, there is a view of Canigou.

From La Farga de Baillestavy (Vallestàvia), almost the entire climb to Valmanya (Vallmanya) is on theGR®36. The return journey is partly on aPR® and then on theGRP® Ronde du Canigou (Ronda del Canigó). The return journey has a few ascents and descents. Don't hesitate to visit these two typical Catalan villages with their rich history.

The aim is to follow the pretty Pla Mitjà ridge, then take the sloping path beneath Puig dels Becis to reach Ras de Prat Cabrera. Do not underestimate the long descent through the Bosc de Patriques, which is a classic route in this part of the Canigou. Much of the outward route is open and offers beautiful views.Classified as difficult due to the section from (7) to (9), which is completely out of the questionin even moderate snow: a steep slope with absolutely no room for error. The descent through the woods from (10) to (14) is no walk in the park.

A very beautiful but challenging hike (steep ascents and descents) featuring the Anciennes Mines de la Pinosa, the small pass of Pei, the Puig Sant Pere, the Coll de Cirera, the Balcon du Canigou path (GR®10) and the Maison Forestière de l'Estanyol. Then a steep descent to reach the car park at Valmanya. This hike can be done in either direction, with the highest point being halfway along the route.

A very beautiful hike, the difficulty lies in its length. Passage through the chimney is visible as the yellow markings have been erased - path closed (not recommended). See practical information below.

First stage of this two-day route around Pic du Canigou.

This is a 2- or 3-day hike, starting from Los Masos, the Cortalets Refuge, the Crêtes du Barbet, the Portella de Valmanya, the Brèche Durier, the Pic du Canigou, the Pic Joffre, and the Cortalets Refuge (where you can stop before descending to Los Masos).

This loop takes you to the Refuge des Cortalets (manned) at the foot of Canigou, passing by the Abri du Pinatell on the way there and the Refuge de Prat-Cabrera on the way back. This less frequented route is longer but gentler. The magnificent landscapes along the way are full of charm. The return, which is steeper, offers fewer views of the Canigou massif. We really enjoyed this version. From the Refuge des Cortalets, you can make a round trip to the summit of Canigou.

A challenging hike requiring good training and a high level of fitness to complete in a single day. An overnight stay at the Refuge des Cortalets is entirely possible. Plenty of attractions all along the way with ever-changing scenery (beautiful forests, mountain meadows, scree slopes, the summit of Canigou and the surrounding area, even in the distance). Best done in good weather to enjoy the beauty of nature.

From Los Masos de Valmanya, a pleasant, steady climb leads to the Abri Pinatell.Then the famous Chemin du Canigou leads to Ras de Prat Cabrera.⚠️ This route should be undertaken when there is no snow or black ice (¹)From this beautiful spot, after the track, the steep descent through the Bosc de Patriques takes you back to Los Masos.

This two-day hike, with an overnight stay at the Refuge des Cortalets, allows for one or more alternative routes each day, depending on the weather or your needs. The route is fully signposted. The suggested alternatives stay on the signposted paths or tracks, so there is no risk of getting lost. In addition, on thefirst day (upon arrival) or thesecond day (before descending): the ascent of Pic del Canigó (a round trip from the refuge). Access details are provided at the start of the description for the first stage. ⚠️ Works at the Cortalets refuge in 2026, 2027 and 2028. Renovation of the Cortalets refuge; the Cortalets refuge is closed for works.

First stage of the circular route from Mas Malet to the Refuge des Cortalets. Ascent to Les Cortalets via little-used paths, marked with directional posts that are present and in very good condition (as of July 2025). This is an alternative route through the forest, sheltered from the intense heat, and above all featuring a steady climb with beautiful views. The only drawback is the access to the start via a recently resurfaced track suitable for vehicles (as of July 2025) up to Coll del Forn. After that, driving carefully, you’ll reach the car park without any trouble. It’s clear that a very low-slung car risks scraping the ground. ⚠️ Works at the Cortalets refuge in 2026, 2027 and 2028. Renovation of the Cortalets refuge; Cortalets refuge closed for works

A very beautiful hike with views of the eastern slope of the Canigou Massif and a visit to the Pinosa mining site (a listed historic monument) which bears witness to the work and living conditions of miners in the 19th and 20th centuries. A beautiful 360° panorama at the summit of Pic de l'Estelle over the Corbières to the north, the sea and the Albères to the east, Spain to the south and the slopes of Canigou to the west. The Batère Tower on the descent from the peak is reminiscent of the system of signal towers erected in the Middle Ages, which formed a communication network: at night using fires and during the day using smoke.

An exceptional heritage walk at one of the major sites of the Canigou iron mines, which is also a key site commemorating the Resistance. Once at the site, heritage signage provides an insight into the area’s rich history.

A superb heritage trail starting from Coll Palomeres, plunging into the heart of the industrial golden age of the Pyrénées-Orientales. The route passes through ancient mining ruins, evidence of a rich past, before reaching the imposing Tour de Batère, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

A pleasant walk that gets a little challenging towards the end. This section will allow you to discover three villages in Bas Conflent: Espira-de-Conflent, Estoher and Finistret.