Ascent to Mariailles from the Coll de Jou

de fr

First half-day stage to climb up to the Mariailles Refuge. Parking is mandatory at Coll de Jou. A lovely climb via theGR®10andGR®36with stunning views of the sheer drops and cliffs of the Gorge de Cady. The comfortable refuge is situated in a large open space with beautiful views.

This walk is part of a multi-day hike: Le Pic des Sept Hommes en deux jours

Details

n°23272530
Creation:
Last update:
Last review:
  • Walking
    Activity: Walking
  • ↔
    Distance: 2.49 mi
  • ◔
    Average duration: 2h 45 
  • ▲
    Difficulty: Moderate
  • ⚐
    Back to start: No
  • ↗
    Ascent: + 1,864 ft
  • ↘
    Descent: - 39 ft
  • ▲
    Highest point: 5,541 ft
  • ▼
    Lowest point: 3,691 ft
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Photos

Pic dels Set Homes
Les Aiguilles, the Gorge dels Coloms
Arrival at the Mariailles Refuge
The cliffs above the Gorge de Cady

Description of the walk

From Perpignan, head towards Andorra via the D116. On leaving Villefranche-de-Conflent, turn left at the roundabout towards Vernet-les-Bains. At the end of Vernet, continue towards Casteil, staying on the same side of the Cady river. In Casteil, follow signs for Col de Jou and turn right (at a right angle) opposite the town hall. Park at Col de Jou in the designated bay-style spaces along the track, which is closed to all motorised traffic.

Red and white markings forthe GR®10andGR®36

(S) Walk back a few metres towards the information and directional signs. Climb the steps on the right above the fire tank. Follow theGR® markings.

(1) You will arrive at Coll del Cavall Mort (Dead Horse Pass). Continue following theGR® markings along a pretty water channel. This will take you via theGR® to the Refuge de Mariailles, your stop for the night (E).

Waypoints

  1. S : mi 0 - alt. 3,691 ft - Col de Jou 1125m (Coll de Jou)
  2. 1 : mi 1.1 - alt. 4,783 ft - Col du Cheval Mort (Coll del Cavall Mort)
  3. E : mi 2.49 - alt. 5,541 ft - refuge de Mariailles

Notes

Setting off at around 4.30 pm from Coll de Joue allows you to reach the refuge and settle in.

Take the time to admire the stunning scenery revealed by these twoGR® trails. There are some truly beautiful views.

This route passes through multiple protected areas, which may be subject to special regulations:

Worth a visit

Always be cautious and plan ahead when you're outdoors. Visorando and the author of this route cannot be held responsible for any accidents occurring on this route.

The GR® and PR® markings are the intellectual property of the Fédération Française de Randonnée Pédestre.

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Reviews and comments

4.9 / 5
Based on 3 reviews
Reliability of the description
5 / 5
Ease of following the route
4.7 / 5
Route interest
5 / 5
Famille NEE
Famille NEE

Overall rating : 5 / 5

Date of your route : Sep 17, 2025
Reliability of the description : ★★★★★ Very good
Ease of following the route : ★★★★★ Very good
Route interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Very busy route : No

We've done this hike several times and never tire of it. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. It's a real joy. Very well marked – a big thank you to those who take care of it.

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FraJosB
FraJosB

Overall rating : 4.7 / 5

Date of your route : Oct 01, 2024
Reliability of the description : ★★★★★ Very good
Ease of following the route : ★★★★☆ Good
Route interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Very busy route : Yes

A lovely route suitable for walkers who want to see Mont Canigou without tackling high-altitude hiking.

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Alain Chapel
Alain Chapel

Overall rating : 5 / 5

Date of your route : Jul 24, 2023
Reliability of the description : ★★★★★ Very good
Ease of following the route : ★★★★★ Very good
Route interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Very busy route : No

A great route. Detailed description.

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Hparent1955@gmail
Hparent1955@gmail

Thank you

Useful information.

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Hparent1955@gmail
Hparent1955@gmail

Hello,

I’m thinking of doing this stage in early July 2023, then carrying on straight away to Canigou.
Is the Coll de Jou car park still open? Are there spaces available early in the morning (8am)?

I see it takes 2 hours 45 minutes for 4 km and 565 metres of elevation gain: does that seem a lot to you?

Thanks
Hervé Parent

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Walking Mariailles refuge - Cortalets refuge

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