Sansa walks

A lovely walk taking in some of the Catalan heritage sites of the Garrotxes.Route marked in yellow, with directional and information signs that are either recent or in very good condition.No signposting between (7) and (9), but it is impossible to go wrong. The yellow markings indicated, and present in November 2022, are not guaranteed to remain in place over time (disappearance, destruction).Paths are in perfect condition. This walk can be shortened as desired.The most challenging part is returning to Sansa via the small D4/D4e road: allow half an hour’s drive from Olette.

This route, starting from Sansa, will take you on a tour of the surroundings of the northernmost village in the Garrotxes. A fairly long and challenging hike.

A family hike accessible to all in the wild Garrotxes valley. From the village of Sansa, on a forest trail on the way there, the route leads to the Estagnols Lakes, where there is also a refuge.

A short, accessible hike connecting two of the five villages located in the wild and little-known Garrotxes valley. Several old mills with information panels can be found along the route.

A lovely getaway to a remote and little-known corner of the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, namely the Garrotxes and, more specifically, the village of Railleu. You can also explore the neighbouring village of Sansa on this route.

A lovely loop to do on snowshoes (or on foot in summer) starting from Matemale. The return via the other trail requires a certain level of fitness if the tracks in the snow have not been made. From the Col de La Sansa, follow the yellow-red markings. It is also important to follow the description carefully, otherwise you will have to return to the bottom of the road and walk back up to the pass to retrieve your cars.

This long circular hike takes you via Coll del Torn and Caudiès-de-Conflent. The mix of open and wooded sections offers a hike rich in varied landscapes and atmospheres.

A beautiful, unspoilt hike through the Garrotxes Valley, starting from Ayguatébia.

A beautiful excursion in the heart of Les Garrotxes (a wild and little-known region of the Eastern Pyrenees) to discover two of its villages, Ayguatébia-Talau and Caudiès-de-Conflent.

A beautiful, wild route in the Garrotxes valley, starting from Caudiès-de-Conflent. The hike climbs up to the splendid panorama of Pic de la Soccarada. Once back in Caudiès-de-Conflent, I recommend continuing on to the lake, a peaceful spot for a picnic.

A beautiful route accessible to all, running alongside Lake Puyvalador with an interpretive trail at the start of the walk.

This route will take you to the Coll del Torn refuge, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Capcin peaks and some of the Ariège peaks.

A simple and enjoyable circular snowshoe loop above the village of Formiguères. There was a lot of snow when we did it. The ridge offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.

Discover a pleasant walk suitable for all, combining the mysteries of the Forêt de la Matte with the historic charm of the Tour de Creu, for a chance to immerse yourself in the heart of nature and local heritage.

This route takes you through one of the most beautiful valleys in the Eastern Pyrenees, namely the Galbe Valley and its breathtaking landscapes in Capcir, starting from the typical and authentic village of Fontrabiouse. Point S/E moved - Route modified on 02/03/2023.

A beautiful border getaway between the Pyrénées Orientales and Ariège that will take you to the wild Étang de Quérigut in Donezan.

A beautiful getaway in the wild Lladure valley, starting from Lac de l'Olive, located on the road to the Formiguères ski resort.

A beautiful hike with a steady climb to the Refuge de la Mouline along a well-marked trail that passes through increasingly beautiful scenery as you progress, often through woodland. After the refuge, the hike changes completely as you leave the pine forest, with a balcony walk offering impressive views of the Pyrenees mountain range, from Canigou to Cambre d'Aze. Although it does not present any technical difficulties, this hike is classified as difficult, partly because of its length but mainly because of the uncertainty in following the route after the Refuge de la Mouline, as the quality of the trail changes completely. It is essential to follow the Visorando trail to complete this circular hike off the beaten track, as it is well worth the effort. A GPS or the Visorando app is therefore strongly recommended.

This is a very pleasant round trip hike in hot weather. Inspired by the Visorando publication of the loop entitled "Le Camì Ramader, le Refuge de la Mouline depuis Évol", it has the advantage of following the course of the Evol stream, allowing you to cool off regularly. Much of the route is through woodland, and the shade provided by the various trees, which change species as you climb, offers welcome respite from the heat.

From Évol, a beautiful circular hike via the Camí Ramader, to discover the landscape and the mountain space dedicated to pastoralism. The Ribera d'Évol valley is a mid-mountain area where man has tamed the steep slopes by building fetges (terraces) to prevent erosion and to grow some cereals. These large structures were built using locally available materials and blend perfectly into the landscape. On the way back, there is a short track between (11) and (12) and between (15) and (16).

This hike, mostly through forest, will introduce you to a wild, mountainous landscape. You will enjoy this shaded hike in summer and winter on snowshoes, following part of the Voie Blanche (groomed and free). The elevation gain is low and the trails are wide enough to enjoy the scenery in complete tranquillity. You can take shortcuts to give your legs a rest at point (3) or point (10).

Starting from the village of Nohèdes, the route climbs to three lakes forming part of the Nohèdes Nature Reserve: Estany del Clot, Gorg Estelat and Gorg Nègre. At the foot of the majestic Pic de Madrès, this hike takes you through a magnificent landscape of torrents, lakes, meadows and pine forests where pastoral activity is very much alive, as the ever-present and highly active "patous" are keen to remind hikers.

Here is a lovely hiking route open to all that will immerse you in the Hauts de Puyvalador amidst the stunning Capcinoise vegetation.

Starting from Les Angles resort, discover the ruins of the Iglesieta and Lake Balcère on a hike that is mostly through the woods and not particularly difficult.

Fairly long route with a significant elevation gain. It is possible to shorten this hike at two points. It can be done in two days with an overnight stay at the Camporells refuge. Torrential streams, huts, lakes, peaks, mountain huts, animals and spectacular landscapes await you. Camporells protected area: see the regulations in force; dogs must be kept on a lead. Free car parks. The hike is fully marked. Except for the option that avoids the bends on the track from (10) to (13).

This ascent to the Étang du Diable is off the marked trails. You’ll need a good sense of direction, or follow this route using the app or a GPS. As a result, the hike is classified as difficult. The return journey will largely follow the GRP®. The landscape is very rocky, the temperature is cool, and it’s often windy. This lake is situated below the Pic des Mortiers. See my hike

This hike takes us to Lac de la Balmette with its crystal-clear waters, then to the Refuge de la Balmette with a panoramic view of the Pyrenees; we continue our ascent to Mont Llaret, the highest point, and descend towards Les Angles via the Roc d’Aude and the ski resort facilities.

The Camporells Lakes are magnificent. This loop is varied and avoids having to make a return trip. The outward journey is little known and you don't come across many people.

A challenging hike taking you to one of the most beautiful sites in the Pyrénées-Orientales: the Camporells, with their breathtaking scenery.

An easy, two-thirds shaded route suggested by a Year 3 class. Superb views to help children from the countryside discover the mountains: lake, forests.

A lovely loop offering 360° views and glimpses of the Capcir, Madres and Canigou peaks. Added to this are the two magnificent lakes you pass by. Part of the hike is off-trail, so you need to know how to find your way.

A breathtaking hike with stunning landscapes and uninterrupted views, in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, starting from the Les Angles ski resort.

A varied hike (forest, lake, pastures, rocky peaks) leading to a beautiful summit with magnificent views. Two-thirds of the route is unmarked, but the path is visible thanks to cairns. The descent along the ridges gives you time to take it all in. Caution: there are vertiginous sections, even though there is no climbing involved and a path runs along the ridges; check the weather forecast as clouds coming in from the Ariège can spoil everything, and damp conditions make the rocks slippery.

A fairly wild hike away from the crowds, taking you to the Pic de Ginevre and its magnificent 360° views. Please note, three-quarters of the hike is off-trail.

A short circular loop starting from Puyvalador Station, taking about 1 hour at a leisurely pace. The route is signposted and can be completed on foot or in snowshoes, depending on the weather. Most of the route is in the shade of the trees in the forest.

Accessible to all, this trail offers the chance to discover several murals installed along the way, inspired by the landscapes that Charles Rennie Mackintosh immortalised during his time in the Pyrénées-Orientales. The route crosses the Mont-Louis area and offers a walk combining nature, art and heritage.

This pleasant walk through woodland, along the banks of the River Têt and through the fortifications is a synthesis of the walks in the Catalan Pyrenees that follow thePR®®10,PR®®19andPR®®20routes. This route starts from the village of La Llagonne but could just as easily begin at the Citadel of Mont-Louis or Lac d’en Calvet.

A beautiful, bucolic walk in the Haut Conflent region of the Pyrénées Orientales that will delight young and old alike.

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Pyrenees, the Carançà Gorges offer an unforgettable adventure for hiking enthusiasts. This two-day route will take you through spectacular landscapes, suspended footbridges over the rushing torrent, vertiginous cornices and dense forests. On the first day, you will climb up the gorge to the Ras de la Carança refuge, before continuing on to the Estany de Carançà for a high-altitude bivouac. The next day, you will descend via a loop route through the heights, offering breathtaking views of the valley. A total immersion in unspoilt wilderness awaits you.

A lovely, short and very scenic route through the Carança Gorges. This walk offers multiple options up to the suspension footbridge, meaning you can do a circular route (and return to the starting point or switch to the other bank) at several points.Moderator’s note: some people have got lost on this hike; see reviews

A magnificent hike between gorges and mountains. Aerial passages, footbridges and rope bridges are guaranteed on this route. Do not attempt this route in rainy or snowy weather. Please note: the elevation gain is overestimated by the software. The total elevation gain is 1,100 metres.

Tired of long Catalan hikes?Treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon with a hot bath in the open air in the middle of the Entre-Valls forest, with views of the foothills of Estallades and El Fornas. All this is free of charge in wild pools on a public site, perfectly clean, not far from the majestic arches of the Yellow Train railway bridge. Unforgettable memories! Important information for January 2026! Following a collapse, the trail is no longer passable since (S). The destination remains accessible only via alternative route No. 2, see the Practical Information section.

A magnificent hike along a historic trail offering stunning views.

A pleasant loop starting from the Angles Animal Park. A passage by the Lac d'Aude then a view of the Lac des Bouillousses. At Corrals del Lloret, a beautiful herd of cows with their calves. A few almost wild horses. Mont Llauret and Roc d'Aude at the end to see the surroundings.

In summer, you will be looking for coolness and a few thrills: for you, there is a stream, gorges, undergrowth and a few fun passages on footbridges and monkey bridges (return trip). You can then return via a narrow ledge, which is not recommended for young children, people with poor footwear or those prone to vertigo. (There is an alternative route via the downstream ledge, which is the most vertiginous).

This is the first stage of the Thués - Fillols loop, which takes you up the Carença Gorge to the refuge of the same name.

A 5-day route in the Catalan Pyrenees, offering the chance to explore the stunning Carença Gorges before finishing with an ascent of the Catalan giant: the Canigou.

This short circular starting from the Étang de Vallsera relaxation area is recommended as a complement to a relaxing picnic by the lake in the heart of nature. It is short but a little challenging due to the uphill section, which culminates in a passage with handrail ropes. The route has been modified following the fall of large trees.

A beautiful hike above Les Angles, from Étang de Balcère to Étang de la Balmette. The route, accessible to all despite a few climbs, offers a peaceful atmosphere and unspoilt natural surroundings. At the end of the trail, the tranquillity of Étang de la Balmette rewards your efforts.

A beautiful family walk open to all around Lac de Balcère (Estany de Vallsera) with the opportunity to discover the ruins of the Church of Vallsera.

A very pretty, fairly gradual hike with a superb view at La Porteille.

The Pic de Baxouillade dominates the Galbe, Laurenti and Orlu valleys. The access path through the Galbe valley, which is fairly quiet, climbs gradually through wide mountain pastures and passes close to two lakes, including the Portella d'Orlu. The only difficulty on the hike is a steep section in a couloir at 2,450 metres, where you will need to use your hands on the rock to help you climb, but it is not rock climbing.

This balcony route, with its many panoramic views, will allow you to discover the little-known village of Sauto and its surroundings.

Circular hike starting below the Col de Jau at the start of the old ski resort. Except for the track leading from the road to the car park, we were able to complete the entire hike in virgin snow and discover areas marked only by animal tracks in all directions.

A pleasant walk to discover the Ovansa Tower, an iconic site where the location of the Mont-Louis citadel – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – was decided. The walk starts at the Mont-Louis Tourist Information Office.

This year, with its exceptional snowfall, it is possible to tackle routes that were difficult to complete in previous years. There seems to be nearly a metre of snow, which is impressive. To climb up to the pass, we took advantage of a very clear road, with no snow or ice. A very beautiful circular route, a little challenging as you sink in a lot, but very interesting. For the less adventurous, a round trip on the flattest part of the route makes for an easy discovery hike (between the Col de Jau at 1,506 metres and the point (2) at 1,529 metres).

This route, which passes through Madres and Bernard Sauvage, is absolutely stunning.The climb up to Madres follows a very well-marked path.==> From this point (El Madrès), turn back if you’re not comfortable walking off the marked trail.The climb up to Bernard Sauvage is straightforward and easy to follow.The rest of the return route follows a good ridge path to La Glèbe (14). *From there to (15), you’ll need the GPX track on the app. *

This year, with its exceptional snowfall, allows you to do this route on snowshoes in good conditions. To climb up to the pass, we took advantage of a very clear road, with no snow or ice. A beautiful hike that takes you to the summit of Pic Dourmidou with heavy snowfall, just after 5 to 10 centimetres of fresh snow fell during the night, adding to the thick layer that had fallen in previous days. Beautiful 360° view from the summit before the fog rolled in.

This hike to Pla de Barrès, known as Little Canada, is a lovely circular loop along the La Têt river in the municipality of Bolquère.

Enjoy the snow on an easy walk in Catalan country.

Inspired by a Visorandonneur hike called "Le Sentier des 5 Sens depuis la route du Col de Jau" (The 5 Senses Trail from the Col de Jau road), the idea of doing it on snowshoes was made possible by the exceptional snowfall of the previous days. There was enough good snow to avoid having to climb up and start from the Col de Jau as we did in other winters. Apart from the track leading from the road to the car park, the entire hike took place in virgin snow, allowing us to see animal tracks in all directions. It was a real treat!

A superb, very easy hike that is accessible to everyone and will allow you to appreciate the Mosset communal forest.

A fantastic hike in the Donezan, allowing you to discover all of its villages and rich heritage.The main difficulty of this route is its length, covering nearly 20 km.Best enjoyed in autumn, when the flamboyant colours of Donezan offer landscapes of exceptional beauty.

From Superbolquère, a hike that isn’t too difficult but features a technical section from Estany Llarg (Long Lake) via Estany Negre (Black Lake) to the Têt Valley. The path is very rocky at the start, followed by a stony descent!

A lovely circular walk in the forest, from Pyrénées 2000 to Coll del Pam (col du lopin de terre). Viewpoint over the mountains from Carlit to Canigou at the end.