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Massif du Canigou walks
The Vernet-les-Bains waterfalls
A beautiful, refreshing family hike with three stunning waterfalls, including the Cascade des Anglais as a reward.
The Croix loop from the village of Joch
A beautiful half-day circular hike from this village.The climb is via the Way of the Cross to the large Croix de Joch.The return journey is via the very pretty balcony path that connects Joch (Jóc) to Baillestavy (Vallestàvia).A variant towards the canal is now accessible from wp (11).See practical information before setting out on this hike.
Saint-Martin du Canigou Abbey loop
A pleasant circular walk starting from Casteil. The climb is steep on a rough path to the abbey and a viewpoint.
The path is then flat until you reach the Saint-Benoît Chapel, which offers a magnificent view of Vernet-les-Bains.
The return journey is on a paved road that descends past the Saint-Martin le Vieux Chapel.
Roc de la Collada via the Chapel of Saint-Étienne de Pomers
A little-visited but very pleasant area, in winter or early spring when the Canigou is covered in snow.
The trail is mostly signposted and very well marked.
Saint-Martin du Canigou Abbey
A very classic walk to Saint-Martin du Canigou Abbey, an easy route, but very popular.
The route is shaded and very pleasant. It is suitable for vehicles and pushchairs.
The abbey is nestled in a beautiful setting and is well worth a visit.
Pic du Canigou - Los Masos at the Refuge des Cortalets
First stage of this two-day route around Pic du Canigou.
Col de l'Estagnol via the Cabane de la Devèze from the hamlet of Leca
A lovely walk through the woods, best enjoyed in autumn due to the varied, colourful vegetation and beautiful views of the foothills of Canigou.
Pic de la Pena
A half-day hike offering superb views of Canigou and the surroundings of Vernet-les-Bains. You will also see the Church of Saint-Martin du Canigou nestled in its setting. The longer version of this route can be extended to Torre de Goa, returning via the path marked on the map on the western side, or by going to Colle de Jou and descending via the correc del coll de Jou and Casteil.
The Tower of Goa (Torre de Goà) from Vernet-les-Bains
A very pretty hike that takes you to this beautiful restored tower and its stunning views.
No particular difficulties.
The GPX track may be useful, particularly from (S/E) to (6).
Pic du Canigou
If there is one peak to climb in Catalonia, it is Canigou (the Catalan Olympus). Rising to 2,784.66 metres, it offers exceptional views from the summit, where there is an orientation table.
Boule d'Amont - Coll de Seleig - Coll de Les Arques - Serrabona
The proposed hike takes you up to the ridge, where you can enjoy a superb panorama.Serrabona Abbey, on the route described, is well worth a visit. This site is in perfect condition and is currently being refurbished.An additional variation to this hike can be added, starting from Serrabone. *The hike will be moderately difficult (good sense of direction required) and will take an additional 1.5 hours.Please note: Observation on 14 January 2024: after (6), the track has been widened, the pastures cleared and wood cut. The original path is very difficult to follow: the markings and posts have disappeared! The GPX track is very useful from this point onwards.
Canigou from Los Masos de Valmanya and the Crête du Barbet
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.
Casteil - Mariailles Refuge
First stage of the Three Days on Canigou.
This climb to the Mariailles Refuge allows you to discover a magnificent water supply channel.
Mount Helena
Starting from the town hall in Caixas, the ascent of Mont Helena, the highest point in the area, offers a few surprises in terms of heritage and botany. And above all, an extraordinary panorama of the Roussillon.
The circular of the Canigou
Ascent to the Canigou massif from the west.
Depart from the Mariailles refuge, following theGR®10to the Cortalets refuge.
The next day, climb the peak then descend via the chimney and return via Pla de Cady to the Arago Refuge, before joining theGR®10and returning to Mariailles.
The Bonabocs Valley - Arles sur Tech
Mostly a hike through the woods, on a path that climbs up the mountainside through holm oaks and cork oaks, pleasant in fine weather. Several viewpoints over the Tech valley and Canigou and river crossings. A fairly impressive cornice passage (not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo). Crossing the Bas Vallespir State Forest. Several farmhouses (ruins) and dry stone walls bear witness to the fact that man has cultivated and lived in these places.
Around Vinça
A beautiful excursion in the Terres du Bas Conflent region, allowing you to discover four of its villages: Vinça, Finestret, Joch and Rigarda.
The Ribera de Fillols, Le Coll de Milleres, Fillols from Corneilla
A day hike from Corneilla-de-Conflent. The total elevation gain is approximately 785 m.Do not underestimate this hike. The slope is very steep from the start.From Coll de Juell (6) to the fork (7), the balcony path allows you to enjoy the landscape of the Canigó massif. The path to Ribera de Fillols and up to the track is very beautiful.The green path from Coll de Milleres to Fillols and then the descent to Corneilla are very pleasant.The GPX track may be necessary in some places.
The Roque Coucoulère loop via the Sant-Guillem refuge
Loop around the Sant-Guillem Chapel offering beautiful views of the Vallespir.Caution: the Torrent de la Coumelade cannot be crossed during snowmelt or after heavy storms.
Montferrer - Puig de Vilafort - La Soca - El Castell
A circular hike in Vallespir starting from the mountain village of Montferrer (830m), built on a rocky outcrop known as "lo Cingle", which offers stunning views from the foot of the feudal castle over the Roussillon plain to the sea.Beautiful landscapes can be seen throughout this hike.
From Cortalets to Mariailles via the Barbet ridges and the Moura hut
Variation of a mountain stage that is part of theGR®®36.This way of connecting the two refuges allows you to avoid the crowds. The path from the Cabane de Moura to Coll del Cavall Mort is quite challenging.Read practical information in case of bad weather.
Coll Palomeres - Creu d'en Turon - Santa Anna from La Bastide
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.
La Soca from Pla del Bac
Another way to climb La Souque (La Soca).Pass through Castell de Mollet, then climb the steep path to the summit, marked by a flagpole flying the Catalan flag, with a 360° view. On the way back, pass by the Brigader shelter and fountain (which has been dry for a long time).This circular double hike takes place on beautiful paths, recalibrated tracks and old small tracks.The beautiful landscapes, occasional wildlife and cows (in summer) are a reward in themselves.There are beautiful spots that are perfect for restorative breaks. Allow at least 6 hours for the hike.The hike is classified as moderate, but beware of the steep slope of the (11) at the summit (13).
From the Refuge des Conques to the Refuge de Mariailles
First stage of the: Loop from the Refuge des Conques to the Refuge de Mariailles
Mountain hike with beautiful scenery, particularly from Coll de Bise to Collada de la Roqueta.
Classified as difficult: exposed, steep slopes in places. See practical information.
Allow 6 hours of sustained walking.
Refuge des Cortalets - Refuge de Mariailles via Canigou
This day is devoted to the ascent of Pic du Canigou from the Refuge des Cortalets, and the descent via the chimney to the Refuge Arago, then to Mariailles, the starting point of the hike.
Les Queroses - Coll de Bise - La Parcigoule
From Perpignan, head towards Le Boulou, Céret, Amèlies-les-Bains, Prats de Mollo via the D115. Then head towards La Preste via the D115a. Then turn right towards Parcigoule. Continue to the end of the tarmac road and park as soon as possible after the farm, without obstructing the passage. See practical information (¹).A sense of direction is necessary. The signposting is good in thefirst part.Plan for a simple return trip after heavy rain. See the practical information section (²).
From the Batère Refuge to the Sant-Guillem Refuge
Second stage of the clockwise Tour du Canigou in 8 days.A fairly long hike that starts with a descent.This route follows old paths connecting pastures and valleys.
Refuge de Mariailles - Refuge des Cortalets
This stage is the first part of a two-day circular around the Canigou Massif. This first stage takes you around the peak to the west, from the Mariailles Refuge to the Cortalets Refuge, via the Bonne Aigue Refuge. It's a good warm-up before the next day's climb.
The Batère Tower
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.
Refuge Sant Guillem - Chemin d'els Troncassers - Puig Sarraïns - La Llau
Second day of: Two days of discovery at the Sant Guillem Refuge, from the Sant Guillem Refuge.Between (8) and (12), a GPX track is strongly recommended or a very good sense of direction, despite the signposting and cairns being in very good condition. Observed at the end of July 2023.Coll de Serre Vernet via a magnificent balcony path in very good condition. The same applies to Puig dels Sarraïns.Return to the refuge via a beautiful path, then pleasant tracks through the woods.After a break at the refuge, return to the car park at La Llau via the usual route.
The Sant Guillem refuge via the Coll de la Rua - La Soca - l'Estanyol
First day of discovery: Two days of discovery at the Sant Guillem Refuge, with the climb to the Sant Guillem Refuge.Do not underestimate this day. The time indicated is accurate.From the La Llau hikers' car park, climb up to the Coll de la Rua.Continue along a small grassy track to the shelter and the Font del Brigadier.Then climb up a very steep path to La Soca.Next, head to Coll de l'Estanyol.Further on, begin a beautiful descent to the Sant Guillem refuge.Vast landscapes await you on this first day of your discovery hike.
Pic des Maurous via Pic de Marbet and Roc de l'Agle
In the first part of the hike from Finestret to Pic des Maurous, the climb from the point (1) is quite demanding. The steep slope throughout this section requires a good level of fitness. It offers beautiful views of the north and east of the area, from the Madres Massif to the sea, passing through the plain and its villages, the Fenouillèdes and the Corbières in the distance.
The GPX track can be very useful.
Pic de l'Estelle from Coll Palomeres via the Pinosa mining site
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.
Around Saint-Martin du Canigou Abbey
An exceptional hike around Saint-Martin du Canigou Abbey, a true jewel of the cultural and religious heritage of the Pyrénées-Orientales. Don't be fooled by the short distance of the route: there is a significant elevation gain and the slopes are sometimes very steep. Caution is advised for those prone to vertigo, as one section requires the use of handrails installed for the safety of hikers.
Tour de Batère, Col de Formentera and Pla de les Eugues
A short, easy walk offering beautiful views of the eastern face of the Canigou massif from the Tour de Batère. You can also see the seaside resorts of Argelès-sur-Mer and others as you head north along the coast.
Los Masos loop via three refuges
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.
Mas Malet loop to the Refuge des Cortalets
This two-day hike, with an overnight stay at the Refuge des Cortalets, allows for one or more variations each day, depending on the weather or your needs. The hike is fully signposted. The suggested variations remain on signposted paths or tracks with no risk of getting lost.
In addition, on thefirst day (upon arrival) or thesecond day (before descending),you can climb the Pic del Canigó (round trip from the refuge).
Access is described at the beginning of the description for the first stage.
Cortalets - Mas Malet via Prat-Cabrera, La Mouline, Chemin des Muletiers
Second stage of the Mas Malet loop to the Refuge des Cortalets. Return (descent) to Mas Malet via little-used paths, marked with directional posts (as of July 2025).
Allow around 5 hours for the walk. The GPX track may prove very useful in places.Please note: classified as difficult, with a descent of over 1,500 m, but sheltered from the heat and offering beautiful views and refuges.
The only drawback is undoubtedly the climb back up to follow the beautiful Chemin des Muletiers from La Mouline (15). There is an alternative route that avoids this by descending via the track. Another more radical alternative is to descend only via the track from (9) to (E).
Mas Malet - Cortalets via Roc Mosquit, Ras dels Cortalets
First stage of the Mas Malet loop to the Refuge des Cortalets. Ascent to Les Cortalets via little-used paths, marked with directional posts and in very good condition (as of July 2025). This is an alternative route through the forest, sheltered from the heat and, above all, with a steady climb and beautiful views.
The only drawback is the access at the start via a very rough track that has been resurfaced (as of July 2025) up to Coll del Forn. After that, driving slowly, you can reach the car park without any problems. Obviously, a car with low ground clearance is likely to scrape.
Batère Tower via the Col de Formentera
This is a beautiful round-trip hike that can be done in summer as it takes place mostly in the woods and on the northern slope for the most part. The trail markings, which were recently redone (PR® Yellow), make it easy to follow the path from Taulis to the Col de Formentera. The Tour de Batère, at the end of the hike, crowns the outing with beautiful 360° views.
From the Mariailles refuge to the Conques refuge
Second stage of the: Loop from the Refuge des Conques to the Refuge de Mariailles
Mountain hike with a permanent view of Pla Guillem at Porteilla des Avets
Classified as difficult: open terrain, paths sometimes with old or no markings, steep slopes in places. See practical information.
Allow 6 hours of sustained walking.
Loop between Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste and the Sant Guillem refuge
This two-day hike, with an overnight stay at the Sant Guillem refuge, allows for shorter variations each day depending on the weather or individual needs.
This hike is fully signposted: unfortunately, the paths are not maintained and the signposting needs to be refreshed in many places (as observed in early July 2025).
Sant Guillem to Prats-de-Mollo via Serre Vernet - Comella - Lloses - Miracle
Thissecond stage, almost entirely in the forest, is therefore possible in summer, setting off early.Discovery hike along marked paths, little or not used, requiring a sense of direction and the GPX track. Beautiful places to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Prats-de-Mollo to Sant Guillem via Puig Fabra - Les Sarraïns - Serre Vernet
Thisfirst stage, almost entirely in the forest, is therefore possible in summer, if you set off early. A challenging hike with 1,275 metres of elevation gain on marked trails that are rarely used, requiring a good sense of direction and the GPX track.There are some beautiful spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. The highest point (altitude 1,830 m) at Puig dels Sarraïns is a perfect place to stop for lunch, for example.
Loop from the Refuge des Conques to the Refuge de Mariailles
This two-day hike, with an overnight stay at the Refuge de Mariailles, allows for shorter variations each day depending on the weather or individual needs. This hike is not fully signposted. However, the suggested variations allow you to stay on the marked trails.
Two days in the mountains, from one refuge to another. It is possible to start from the Mariailles Refuge, but add 2 hours from the Coll de Jou to climb up to it.
From Collada de Roques Blanques to Pla Guillem via the ridges
Most of the walk is out in the open, with some very beautiful scenery. First, a steep climb to Puig de Collada Verda (marker 2403) and a geodesic marker. This is followed by a route along the ridge and a passage to Collada del Vents. Then watch out for the rocky Cingle dels Pelegrins, where there is no fence or protection. Keep away from them by following the path marked on the ground. A large cairn marks the end of the ridge. A return trip to Pla Guillem (signpost) allows you to enjoy the scenery.
Classified as difficult due to the length and number of ascents and descents throughout the hike and a dangerous zone (15) at (17).