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Portbou walks
Torre de Querroig from Portbou, return along the Chemin Walter Benjamin
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.
Cerbère via the French-Spanish border from Cap Cerbère
A circular loop starting from Cap Cerbère, climbing to follow the ridge line on the French-Spanish border, offering beautiful views on both sides, before dropping back down to Coll dels Belitres and the old border post, then descending to the Catalan village of Cerbère, and finally following the coast to return to the cape.
Cap Cerbère and the Spanish border from Peyrefite Beach
A hike starting from Peyrefite Beach, which largely follows the rocky coastline, from cove to cove, to reach the town of Cerbère, then the eponymous cape and its solar-powered lighthouse, passing by the old customs post at Coll dels Belitres and the ridge marking the border between Spain and France. Return to the starting point via the same route from the centre of Cerbère.
⚠️Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before starting this hike.
La Torre de Querroig from Cap Rederìs
Another way to climb to the Tour de Querroig.First, take the Sentier du Littoral coastal path to Cerbère. Then there is a steep climb to Coll de Belitres. Next, a pleasant little track leads to Coll de la Farella and another steep climb to Torre de Querroig.The descent to Coll de Cervera is steep, as is the rest of the route to Coll de Creu and Coll de Gran Bau.Given the steep paths involved, this hike can be considered difficult.
⚠️ Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.
La Torre de Querroig from the hamlet of Puig del Más in Banyuls-sur-Mer
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 Tower of Querroig is via a ridge path. The view is magnificent.Two other hikes I have done to reach the Torre de Querroig: Coastal path - Torre de Querroig from Banyuls-sur-mer - La Torre de Querroig from Portbou, return via the Walter Benjamin Trail
Col des Gascons from Banyuls-sur-Mer
This is an easy short hike with beautiful sea views.
On the heights of the Côte Vermeille from Banyuls-sur-mer
A circular hike from Banyuls-sur-Mer that takes you past ancient monuments designed by Vauban. Several legendary passes, the Chemin de l'Eau and the Torre de Madaloc. A beautiful view of the coastline.
In addition, the first part of the climb is on the famousGR®10trail.
This hike includes La Torre de Madaloc as part of a circular route.
Between headlands and vineyards in Banyuls-sur-Mer
Banyuls-sur-Mer has a rugged rocky coastline. The path that runs along its cliffs offers beautiful views of the promontories. The climb through the vineyards offers breathtaking views and allows you to appreciate the former "smuggler's republic", now the capital of the Banyuls wine region.
⚠️Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.
Cerbère via the coastal path and return via Puig Joan to Banyuls
This is a demanding hike that begins on the coastal path, allowing you to discover several secluded coves and beaches as well as beautiful views of the Côte Vermeille. The arrival in Cerbère marks the beginning of the second part, where you will climb to reach the magnificent Puig Joan viewpoint after a very challenging ascent. The return journey is along the ridge, offering remarkable views of both the vine-covered hinterland and the coast.
⚠️Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before starting this hike.
Tour Madeloc loop with nine passes
This hike offers beautiful views of the seaside resorts that we will overlook throughout the day as we pass through numerous mountain passes. From Argelès-sur-Mer to Banyuls-sur-Mer, and even beyond if the sky is clear, via Collioure and Port-Vendres, the entire Côte Vermeille stretches out before us. The final stretch in Banyuls-sur-Mer allows us to see the official GR®10 sign, the starting (or finishing) point of the Grande Randonnée trail that links this town to Hendaye (from Catalan Country to Basque Country) across the entire Pyrenees mountain range.
La Torre de Querroig via the coastal path from Banyuls-sur-mer
This is a long hike with some elevation gain, but the scenery along the way is well worth the effort.The coastal path is absolutely beautiful. The hike is well marked, but the GPX track may be useful. I have classified it as difficult.
See practical information (¹).
Another of my hikes offers a shorter version: Torre de Querroig from Banyuls-sur-Mer.
Crossing the Albères
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.
Banyuls-sur-Mer at the Col de l'Ullat
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.
From Banyuls-sur-Mer to Notre-Dame de la Salette
A beautiful getaway open to all, with an elevation gain of about 300 m over 8 km, offering beautiful panoramic views in the heart of the Catalan coast.
From Banyuls-sur-Mer station to Collioure station via Cap Béar
This hike takes you from Banyuls-sur-Mer station to Collioure station. There are frequent trains, allowing you to make the return journey. You can break up the hike at Port-Vendres station.
The route follows the coast from Banyuls to Cap Béar (Cap de Biarra), passing through Anse de Paulilles (Badia de Polilles).Then you cross Port-Vendres to climb up to Fort Saint Elme and descend with a splendid view of Collioure.
⚠️Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before starting this hike.
From Banyuls-sur-Mer to Port-Vendres via the coastal path
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 beautifully restored, history-steeped 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.
⚠️Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.
Llança - Castel de Verdura Sant Pere de Rodes
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
Puig Sallfort and Madeloc Tower from Col de Banyuls
Hike in two circular loops.
Cross the border ridge to reach Puig Sallfort. Descend via theGR®10and the water trail.
Ascent to the Madeloc Tower via a very difficult path.
This hike can be adapted to suit your abilities and the time available (see Practical Information).
Col de Banyuls to Sant-Quirce-de-Colera in Spain
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).
Puig de la Calma and Coll del Torn from Coll de Banyuls
A little-used trail from Coll de Banyuls to Puig de la Calma with views of Banyuls-sur-Mer and Spain. Scrubland, forests, grazing cattle. The route can be extended by following the border towards Tour Querroig.
Puig de Sallfort from Coll de Banyuls
First, there is a short stretch of track, then a superb path that climbs steeply and passes by the Dolmen de la Cova dels Alarbs.
Then the route continues along a steep path through the rocks as you approach the Sallfort pastures.
The Visorando GPX track is essential, especially if the weather is poor (fog, clouds, snow).
Do not underestimate this short but steep hike. The elevation gain is close to 850 m.
Route modified on 30 November 2022.
Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes from Llança Cau del Llop beach
The path from Llança is well marked and climbs steadily to the monastery. As a bonus, a visit to the monastery can enhance your outing.
We started from Cau del Llop beach, but we recommend starting from km 2 of our route at the GR®11 in the village. The road infrastructure behind the fire station allows you to park your vehicle without any problems.
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 along the coast.
Puig Sallfort - Torre de Madaloc - Coll dels Gascons
All in all, this is a fairly challenging circular hike. You need to know how to find your way around to undertake this hike.Part of the hike is unmarked and off-trail.However, the climb to Puig Sallfort can be done as a simple round trip via theGR®®10.
GPX track strongly recommended from (5) to (6): from Creu du Sallfort to Chemin de l'eau.
Puig dels Quatre Termes and de Sallfort via the ridges from Les Gascons
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).
Discover the vinegar factory in the heart of the vineyards in Cosprons
Enjoy a pleasant walk along the Rec de Cosprons and through the vineyards, passing by the vinegar factory.
The Madeloc Tower "without difficulty"
This hike, which is short but includes some steep sections, is undoubtedly the easiest and quickest way to climb to the Madeloc Tower, where you can enjoy a superb panorama.
Cosprons - Paulilles - Coll del Mig from Port Vendres
A pleasant hike between the sea and the mountains with very diverse terrain, in the middle of the southern vineyards of the Côte Vermeille, maritime pines and along the coastal path. Take a moment to relax on Paulilles beach and enjoy the views of the Albères massif and the Mediterranean.
Cosprons, Banyuls and Paulilles from Cap Béar
A hike between land and water. From Cap Béar, the path 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 jagged coastline with its small sandy beaches and rocky coves called "calas" in Catalan. This hike reveals an extraordinary contrast between vineyard work and seaside activities.
⚠️ This is an exposed route, so it is best to avoid it in strong winds or high temperatures.
⚠️ Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.
Cap Béar circular route
A walk through vineyards, heath and along the coast, with splendid views of Cap Béar and Anse de Paulilles.
⚠️Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.
On the heights of the Côte Vermeille
Explore the hinterland of the Côte-Vermeille through its vineyards, fortifications (Madeloc Tower, barracks, etc.) and its natural (vineyards) and historical (chapel) heritage.
Hiking from the Port-Vendres SNCF railway station
This hike above the Côte Vermeille allows you to discover different mountain slopes where vines are still cultivated. Small roads, marked and unmarked paths make up this hike.
The ridge paths offer beautiful landscapes typical of the seaside.
This route can be done all year round. In hot weather, it is best to set off early in the morning.
Passage through several legendary passes of the Côte Vermeille.
From Port-Vendres to Le Racou
Take the coastal path to discover the remains of numerous port defence batteries.
⚠️ Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before starting this hike.
A quick trip to Cap Béar
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.
⚠️ Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.
Long loop of Cap Béar
A circular hike 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 Béar lighthouse.
⚠️ Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before starting this hike.
The Torre de Madaloc loop (Coll de la Serra)
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...
Madeloc Tower
Hike along the Albères mountain range, the easternmost part of the Pyrenees, to reach the Madeloc Tower.
After a few dozen difficult metres, the path to the tower offers a beautiful view of the Mediterranean coast. At the top, the panorama is unforgettable. You can see Collioure, Argèles-sur-mer, Banyuls-sur-mer, Port-Vendres, and even Spain across the Pyrenees mountain range.
Cap Béar and Anse de Paulilles from Port-Vendres
A hike starting from the Port-Vendres pier, which leads along the coastal path to Cap Béar and then on to the listed site of Anse de Paulilles (Nobel factory). The return journey is inland, through the vineyards. A more detailed tour of Port-Vendres takes in the railway station and the fishing, commercial and yachting ports, not forgetting the Fort du Fanal and the Batterie de la Mauresque at Cap Gros, before skirting around the Redoute Béar and the Batterie de Mailly.
⚠️Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before starting this hike.
The Chemin de l'Eau and the Coll de la Plaça d'Armes from El Rimbau
This is a fairly difficult hike where a good sense of direction is necessary in places.
Discovery hike with a possible passage through a tunnel.
This hike can be done in reverse, which avoids the steep descent at the end of the route after the (12).
January 2025. Modification of the route (8) and description. Yellow markings modified to avoid certain areas in this overcrowded forest.
Castle of Sant Salvador de Verdera and Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
A short, easy circular route, even for children, to visit Sant Salvador de Verdera Castle and Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery. Very well-marked trails with superb views of the Mediterranean Sea and the region. Although the route is quite short, it is not shaded.
Between Port-Vendres and Collioure via Fort Sant-Elme
This walk combines steep coastal paths, urban sections, trails through heaths and vineyards, as well as Collioure’s typical narrow streets.
A varied and very pleasant route on a lovely day out of season.
From Port de la Selva to Cala Tavallera
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.
From Collioure to Port Vendres
An unforgettable seaside getaway, starting from one of the most beautiful villages in the Pyrénées-Orientales, Collioure, where you will take part of the coastal path on the way there and return through the hinterland via Fort Saint-Elme.
⚠️ Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.
The Madeloc Tower loop starting from Collioure
The Madeloc Tower, clearly visible from Collioure, is the main destination of this hike. Once you reach the tower, you will be rewarded with a magnificent panorama stretching from Argelès to Spain on the eastern side. The western side opens onto the first peaks of the Pyrenees, including the Pic de Neulos.Along this route, you will encounter numerous military buildings, including the Forts of Saint-Elme and Dugommier, which are clearly visible from the Madeloc Tower.
⚠️ Check whether the coastal path linking Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère is open or closed here before setting off on this hike.