Coll Palomeres (1035 m) walks

A lovely walk exploring the mining history of the Vallespir. A long railway line once ran here at an altitude of 1,200 metres.A good sense of direction and the GPX track may prove useful in some places: there are many crossroads and junctions. Allow around 7 hours to enjoy these surroundings.Please stay on the marked and safe paths.It’s easy to imagine what working conditions must have been like; winters weren’t always as mild as they are today.Some truly beautiful scenery.

A beautiful hike in the open air with the aim of climbing Santa Anna dels Quatre Termes. First, a climb to Coll Palomeres, then a very beautiful ridge path to reach Creu del Turon (crossroads on the hill). Then a steep climb to reach the ruins of the chapel located on the cadastral boundary of four municipalities (hence its name). The return via the Chemin Rural from Creu d'en Turon is very interesting. Marked path on private property: please respect the areas you pass through and close gates and fences behind you.

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.

The route consists of two circular loops. This hike can therefore be adapted as desired. However, it would be a shame not to complete the whole route. Discover an old railway line used for iron ore extraction at an altitude of 1,200 metres, former stations on this line, old iron mines, tunnels, a signal tower, a superb ridge, a summit, a mountain hut, and much more. A good sense of direction and following the GPX track will be very useful.

A lovely circular walk starting from Baillestavy (Vallestàvia). Vast landscapes, particularly after Coll Palomeres. A fairly challenging hike, given the terrain up to Coll Palomères. The first section follows theGRP® (Ronde du Canigó) route, featuring ascents and descents, crossing valleys and torrents, and finishing at Coll Palomères. The second section is off the marked trail and through unspoilt countryside, from Coll Palomères to Creu d’en Touron. The third section is a descent along a very scenic, signpostedPR® trail, with the option to visit an old iron mine, followed by a stretch through La Lentillà over the Pont del Ferro.

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.

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.