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This walk is similar to the one listed as no. 3308821, ‘Le Balcon du Canigou from Los Masos de Valmanya’, which is very well described, except that the circular walk is longer and includes an interesting section through the old Pinosa iron mines (Mines de la Pinouse).
To reach the starting point, you’ll need to take the D13 for about fifteen kilometres to Valmanya. The road is superb but a bit narrow!
(S/E) The route starts from the small village of Valmanya via the D13.
(1) Continue to the right along the D13 – which further on forms part of theGR®36– as far as Los Masos (els Masos), where you can also park, though in that case you’ll have to tackle this climb at the end!
(2) In Los Masos (from Valmanya), you’ll easily find the start of the path, marked by signposts and the red and white markings ofthe GR®36. Tackle the hardest bit first, as the entire climb takes place on this section! Much of the route passes through the very pleasant and shady Bosc de Patriques. You’ll reach a fork in the path with an alternative route forthe GR®36.
(3) On emerging from the woods, there’s a breathtaking view of the Canigou. You can catch your breath now – the hardest part is over!
Carry on straight ahead along a track to the Ras de Prat de Cabrera, which marks the junction ofthe GR®10,GR®36andGRP® Tour du Canigou. You’ll reach an open area with stunning views on both sides of the ridge. The perfect spot to settle down and enjoy a little picnic!
(4) Now carry on straight ahead towards the Ras de Prat Cabrera.
(5) From here, the path (marked in red and white bythe GR®10, which takes precedence over theGRP® Tour du Canigou) known as the Balcon du Canigou runs along a fairly steep slope, which can be quite daunting.
Cross a few streams, with some tricky sections involving a slight climb over boulders. Then, cross some scree and a pasture area with a few cows! The path is easy on this section. You’ll reach the recently renovated Abri du Pinatell.
(6) Continue along the Balcon du Canigou path, following the red and white markings; the rest of the route is more shaded.
(7) Pass the Refuge de l’Estanyol. Continue along the path for nearly 200 m. The markings end here.
(8) Head down to the left through the undergrowth at the signpost marked: ‘Les Mines de la Pinouse’. The descent is a little steep but there is no danger. At the bottom, join a track.
(9) Start the short circular loop towards the Mines de la Pinouse by turning right.
For the short circular loop: follow a signposted path or a newly laid track. You’ll then come across the site of the old iron mines – a surprising discovery given how remote the site is! Numerous building ruins are visible, as well as the entrance to the mines at the far end of the site. When I visited (July 2021), the site was partially under construction to maintain the buildings in good condition.
(10) Complete the circular loop and return to the previous junction on the track.
(9) Take the track to the right to head back down to the village of Valmanya.
(11) Join another, wider track and follow it to the right as far as the village.
(1) Cross the ford and head towards the village and the car park (S/E).
Visorando Member
Moderate 
Very difficult 
