Porqueres walks

Walk around the Estany de Banyoles, Catalonia's largest natural lake. It's a place of exceptional beauty, with a well-laid-out trail that takes in wildlife observation areas and fishermen's cottages on the lake's shores.

Between Olot and Santa Pau, this route takes you to three of the most visited sites in the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park: the Santa Margarida volcano, the magnificent Fageda d'en Jorda beech forest, and the Croscat volcano.

A circular route around the village of Montagut, where the first foothills of the Alta Garrotxa already offer some examples of Romanesque architecture. From the centre of Montagut, climb up to the church of Sant Eudald de Jou and then on to the oratory of Planselloses. You then descend towards the Pont del Llierca (where you can swim), passing under the Puig de l'Espigoler and Puig Sacreu, before returning to Montagut along the river.

Discover the Parc Naturel des Aiguamolls de l'Empordà, Catalonia's second largest wetland.All along the route, there are facilities accessible to all for wildlife observation.

A lovely, very easy walk in a nature reserve where you can see Camargue horses, flamingos and other species of birds. You can even go as far as the sea.

This walk takes about an hour and a half to two hours including time to explore the bunker. The whole walk is very easy.

A lovely walk up through the forest to the Ermitage de Notre Dame du Coral followed by lunch at the Auberge and the same walk back down to Lamanère.

A pleasant loop in Vallespir. Views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

Third day of this crossing of the Albères.This is the greenest part of the route as it is mainly through forest.You will pass by the highest point of Roc de France (Roca de Frausa) with a magnificent panorama over a large part of the Eastern Pyrenees and Canigou (Canigó).

Tour above Torroella to Castle of Montgri, via Montplà and Garrigars pass.Superb 360° panorama. Caution : not very accessible with children, as you have to do a lot of scrambling in the rocks, and there's a steep section in a scree slope.

This is a very difficult hike due to the steep incline on certain sections.Passage through Collada Sant Marti, Roc de la Sentinella, and Coll de la Dona Morta.A good sense of direction and the GPX track are essential. But your efforts will be rewarded by the magnificent scenery.NOTE: the final ascent of Roc Salvador is reserved for experienced hikers who are not prone to vertigo.Shortcut possible from Coll Cerdà ⁴. The climb to Roc can be avoided ².

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.

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).

This walk takes about an hour and a half to two hours including time to explore the castle. The way up is fairly steep but should be fine for people who are moderately fit.

Magnificent restored chapel and hike through the woods.

Another way to climb La Souque (La Soca).Pass by Castell de Mollet, a steep climb to the summit, marked by a flagpole and Catalan flag, with a 360° view. On the way back, pass by the Brigader shelter and fountain (dry for a long time).This double loop hike takes you along beautiful paths, re-calibrated tracks and old trails.The beautiful landscapes, occasional wildlife and cows (in summer) are a reward in themselves.There are some lovely spots for a restorative break. Allow at least 6 hours for the hike.The hike is classified as moderate, but beware of the steep slope of the (10) at the summit (12).

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.

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.

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).

This loop starting from Sa Riera initially runs through woodland and leads to the pretty site of Torre de Mas d'en Pinc at the entrance to Begur. You quickly cross the eastern residential areas before rejoining the Cami de Ronda. This trail runs along a balcony offering magnificent views and leads to Cala Sa Punta, then to Cala Aiguafreda, two discreet and idyllic spots for swimming in the summer. The final section also offers many other opportunities for swimming from the easily accessible rocks along the coast. Despite the distance, the real difficulty of this hike should not be underestimated, as it can be tricky to find your way due to the large number of unmarked paths and several very steep ascents and descents that will leave you breathless and your legs aching.

This route will take you via the Col de Llinas to Puig Sant Cristau and its chapel, offering magnificent 360° panoramic views.

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.

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.

A very pretty loop, well signposted and mostly shaded. Can be done in either direction. In the direction described, a break for lunch can be taken at the Refuge des Conques. After the footbridge (2), the climb is steady and continues through a magnificent beech forest. Water supply (7) at the edge of the forest, just before the huts. The passage through the Tech can be tricky, depending on the season. Then cross another equally pretty beech forest. From Coll Baix (12), you can head straight onto the GRP® and join the Roca Rodona fork. Shorter version of La Preste - Jasse de l'Ullat - Las Conques - Collada de la Solana

This hike requires a good sense of direction. There are numerous forks in the path and the markings are sparse or old. The route from (6) to (7) is not easy due to numerous fallen trees on the path. The GPX track is therefore necessary to confirm your position. Mostly shaded, this hike can be considered in summer, except in very hot weather.You can avoid following the trail between (6) and (7) by taking the track, then following the yellow and white markings on the left for 100 m until you reach (7).If necessary, two escape routes (7) and (10) allow you to quickly return to La Preste. Elevation gain is close to 900 m. Allow 6 hours including breaks.

Very beautiful (difficult) climb through the forest from Veïnat de la Farga to the large Coll Pregon. This border grazing area is still in use. Then a beautiful ridge line with a few bumps towards Costabona. But you will need to turn off well before this into the forest at Coll de Siern. The passage through the grazing area of Cabanes de l'Ullat is very beautiful. The return is then through the forest.

Stunning panoramic views of the sea, Llanca, Puerto de la Selva, Cap Creus, Rosas Bay and Les Albères. Take a well-deserved break at the fountain square in the village of Serra de Rodes

The path from Llança is well signposted and climbs steadily to the monastery. As a bonus, a visit to the monastery will make your outing even more enjoyable. We started from Cau del Llop beach, but we recommend starting from kilometre 2 of our route at the GR®11 in the village. The road behind the fire station provides easy parking. The descent from the monastery via a local trail allows you to discover the village of La Vall de Santa Creu and reach Llança via the Cami de Ronda, which runs along the coast.

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.

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).

A very pretty hike that starts on a path on the France-Spain border and descends to the Spanish Hermitage. Among other things, you will discover fountains and border markers. See practical information (regarding the condition of the path).

For a swim in turquoise water on a deserted beach, there's no need to go to the tropics. Just a two-hour walk from Port de la Selva, and halfway to Cap de Creus, there's a pretty cove just waiting for you. The only problem is that it'll take just as long to get back, and forget about the benefits of swimming. But it's worth it.

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.

Hike to discover the fountains of Laroque-des-Albères: the Font dels Simiots and amazing animals which, according to legend, kidnapped babies and came to settle near the fountain after being dislodged from Arles-sur-Tech; the Font de la Vernosa, a well-preserved, beautiful fountain from where one has a magnificent view of the plain of Roussillon.

Discover the Massane Forest Nature Reserve, one of the few examples of ancient forest in France, with magnificent views of the Roussillon plain and the Côte Vermeille.

Almost the entire hike is in the shade, under a forest of cork oak trees. The slope is quite steep in the first part. The effort is rewarded by a beautiful 360° view from the tower. Moderator's addition on 17/05/2021: Do not rely solely on the map; please read the warnings in the description and reviews It is risky to venture onto the road to La Vall (parking problems, traffic restrictions, etc.). Since 05/05/2023: it is no longer permitted to use this access road between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. due to the risk of fire.

From Platja de Portbou, an ascent to Coll dels Belitres, a border ridge crossing. Then, after Coll de la Farella, the climb to Torre de Querroig. On the return journey, we pass Coll de Rumpissar and descend to Portbou along the Chemin de Walter Benjamin. See practical information. Constantly beautiful panoramas. A gpx track is essential from (8) to (10). Steep gradients on some sections.Hike consists of trails (forbidden to all motorised traffic), paths (stony and steep), and a concrete track (at the finish).Warning: this hike is not recommended in very hot or scorching weather.

A long hike with a significant difference in altitude. From the Col des Gascons, climb to Coll de Vallauria, the water trail, Les Colomates, a ridge to Puig dels Quatre Termes. Return along the GR®®10. Pass Puig de Sallfort and descend along the GR®10.Beautiful scenery, cows, beech forests, springs, a hut, a refuge, summits - enough to keep you busy for a day.La Massane Forest Reserve. Please respect this fragile and protected area from (8) to (16).

From the hamlet of Puig del Más, the proposed hike follows the yellow markings of the Walter Benjamin Trail. A pretty balcony path leads to the French-Spanish border. The return from the Tour de Querroig is via a ridge path. The view is magnificent. Two other hikes I recommend to reach the Torre de Querroig: Coastal trail - Torre de Querroig from Banyuls-sur-mer - Torre de Querroig from Portbou, return via the Walter Benjamin Trail

This hike takes you up to the Madeloc Tower and back via the water trail. Please note the parking problem at Coll de la Serra: see practical information...

This is an easy short hike with beautiful sea views.

Banyuls-sur-Mer has a rugged rocky coastline. The path running along the cliffs offers views of pretty headlands. The climb through the vineyards offers breathtaking views and allows you to appreciate the former "smugglers' republic", now the capital of Banyuls wine.

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.

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.

A three-day hike covering the first three sections ofthe GR®®10. An easy route with no major difficulties, except for the length of the stages, but with panoramic views to enjoy.

First stage of this trek to Amélie-les-Bains. A big day awaits you, but you'll be rewarded with spectacular views. Thefirst morning is physically demanding, especially if it's hot in summer. You'll climb 1,000 metres in one go. The rest of the day is more relaxed, as you'll be on the ridge.

A wild rocky coastline, small forgotten coves, terraced vineyards that seem to hang above the waves: this is what you can expect on this hike dotted with maritime pines and prickly pears. Along the way, the historic and beautifully restored site of Paulilles and various beaches inviting you to take a dip add to the pleasure of this walk in the soft light of the Côte Vermeille.

A long loop around Cap Béar, a challenging but not difficult hike. Things to see: the coastal landscapes, the port of Port-Vendres, the fort, a walk through the vineyards and scrubland, Anse de Paulilles, Bernardi beach, the semaphore and the Béar lighthouse.

A magnificent little hike that is challenging but not difficult. Superb coastal landscapes, including the port of Port-Vendres, the fort, the semaphore and the Béar lighthouse.

A walk amid vineyards, through scrubland, and along the coast, with beautiful views of the Cap Béar and the Anse de Paulilles cove.

A hike between land and sea. From Cap Béar, the trail leading to Port-Vendres offers a beautiful panoramic view of the port and the town. The trail then winds its way through vineyards and pine forests to Banyuls-sur-Mer. Next, the coastal path runs along the rugged coastline with its small sandy beaches and rocky coves called "calas" in Catalan. This hike reveals an extraordinary contrast between vineyards and seaside resorts. Please note: this is an exposed route, so it is best to avoid it in strong winds or very hot weather.