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Vallespir walks
Col de Paracolls via the Santa Engràcia Chapel from Arles-sur-Tech
Magnificent restored chapel and hike through the woods.
Mont Capell - Saint Laurent de Cerdans
This route can be done in the morning or as a day trip. There is a steep climb at the start, followed by a descent on a stony path, then a track and another path through the chestnut forest.
Roc dels Pins
A pleasant loop in Vallespir. Views of the valley and surrounding peaks.
The Chemin de Vivès and the Sentier du Liège from Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts
From Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts, these two marked trails lead up to Vivès and then Llauro*.E beautiful hike on wide, comfortable paths and tracks, which can be split into two.The markings are visible in the direction described.The return from Llauro is along a ridge path and then from the (12) along a DFCI track.Not recommended for those who do not like tracks and wide paths.Fortunately, the landscape makes up for this monotony.
The starting point is accessible by "€1 bus" from Perpignan or Argelès via Le Boulou, for example.
Pic Sec and Mir Tower from the Can Got forest hut (prats de mollo)
A very beautiful circular on excellent, scenic trails, mostly through forest. Superb 360° view from the ridge, overlooking the Canigou massif, the peaks of Spain and the Costabonne.
Cami Retirade - Cami de L'aigua
Circular passing through Coustouges and the foothills of Mont Capell. Shaded route, trail through chestnut woods.
Around Amélie-les-Bains
This route will allow you to explore the surroundings of Amélie-les-Bains, namely Montbolo, where there is an orientation table, and Palalda, a village with a medieval feel.
The Fort de Bellegarde and the Panissars site from Le Perthus
An easy hike from Le Perthus offering views of the Spanish valley towards La Jonquera. Part of the route follows the border and takes you past military buildings from yesteryear (fort and redoubt) as well as the Roman site of Panissars, including the remains of the Via Domitia.
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.
Former talc mine from Pont de Reynès
An easy hike through the woods on good paths, mostly signposted, which will take you to the
remains of the old talc mine.
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.
The ruins of Montferrer Castle
A pleasant, bucolic walk in the Haut Vallespir in Montferrer to explore the ruins of Montferrer Castle (el Castell Mollet).
Montalba d'Amélie and the Engracia Chapel from Amélie-les-Bains
This hike takes place in the woods, but offers beautiful views of the Vallespir (Roc Saint-Sauveur) and Canigou. Avoid when it is too hot.
The Sant-Guillem Refuge via Coll de Rua - Cortal d'Allosat from La Llau
Hike in the Haut Vallespir along a small road, forest tracks and a PR® trail.Beautiful pastures, a sheepfold, the Refuge and Chapel of Sant-Guillem and an arboretum are on the programme.See the section "During the hike or nearby".This hike is the short version of my hike to the St-Guillem refuge via the Coll de Rua and Estanyol from La Llau.
Notre-Dame du Coral circular from Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste
A very beautiful hike, mostly through woodland, but with plenty of variety. The trails are fully marked and very beautiful.
The Coll del Miracle Circular
This route will take you to the heart of Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste, capital of the Haut Vallespir and largest commune in the Pyrénées Orientales, with a magnificent finale in the underground passages of Fort Lagarde, a Vauban fortification listed as a historic monument.
Mimosa circular in Céret
This is a pleasant route in the foothills of Vallespir, above Reynes, where you can enjoy the scent and colour of the mimosas in mid-February and the cork oak forests (suberaies). There are several viewpoints offering views of the Sant-Ferriol Chapel, the town of Céret, the Tech Valley and the Canigou Massif.
Tour of the Corsavy forest
This is a pleasant circular route that allows you to discover the beautiful village of Corsavy and walk through a magnificent boxwood forest, where the sun hardly penetrates. The moss growing on the trunks and branches of the trees gives the forest a strange and mysterious character.
The elevation gain is relatively low, but be careful, as at times the path is quite difficult to see and you need to pay close attention, especially if you don't have a GPS signal to follow the trail.
The bench at the end of the world in Lamanère
This hike is an opportunity to enjoy a picnic on a wooden bench while looking out over the Muga valley, from its source to its estuary in the Bay of Roses. Best done on a clear day to enjoy the view.
From Tech to Serralongue
A beautiful getaway in the Haut Vallespir, starting from the village of Le Tech, which will take you to the magnificent panorama of the Conjurador de Serralongue.
To reach the starting point, enter the village of Le Tech, then turn immediately left to cross the Tech river via a concrete ford and finally park in the car park next to the tennis court.
Circular route from Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts to Sant Ferriol
A pleasant hike starting from Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts, especially during the mimosa season, to reach the Hermitage of Sant Ferriol via the Serra del Mas d'en Janet ridge. On the way back, visit the exterior of Aubiry Castle. Several viewpoints over Céret and the Canigou massif.
Tracks, paths and dirt trails, with a tarmac road on the return journey. No difficulties along the route.
The Cabrenç towers starting from Lamanère
Here is another classic hike starting from Lamanère: the three towers of Cabrenç. These signal towers, built in the 10th century, were used to warn of Saracen invasions from the sea. Magnificent views guaranteed.
Coll de Paracolls via little-known paths
This hike will introduce you to built heritage, remarkable places and unmarked paths.
The numerous terraces still present on the southern slope prove that human activity was significant.
This hike requires a minimum sense of direction. The GPX track is necessary from (7) to (10).
This 11 km hike with an elevation gain of 905 m is very steep (see elevation diagram).
Circular loop of the Coll d'en Ric via a ridge line from Amélie-les-Bains
This is a challenging hike due to the elevation gain and short distance. This hike is only suitable for people who are used to walking off the beaten track. The scenery is spectacular, as numerous gaps in the fairly low vegetation offer views of the surrounding wooded mountains. In addition, the border ridge is clearly visible throughout the ascent. The Roc de France is in sight. The return journey is via stage 39 of the Haute Route Pyrénéenne.
Roc de Frausa - Col del Pou de la Neu - Pic de Les Salines from Pla Bulat
A challenging but safe hike along the France-Spain border ridge.
The ridge passages should be avoided in strong winds.
Short detour into Spain to visit the church and refuge at Les Salines.
Classified as very difficult due to its length and elevation gain.
This hike can be adapted to suit your ability and the weather (see Practical Information).
Modification of the description. See practical information 28 April 2021 *
The descent from (5) to Coll de Cirerers (5) is prohibited.
Puig de Coma Negra from Lamanère
A fairly challenging hike with a magnificent route along the border ridge.
Departure from the southernmost village in France.
The climb via the GRT83 (¹) to the Coll de Malrems on the border is very pleasant.
Pass by the Capelle Santa Cristina chapel.
A good sense of direction is essential (difficult classification). The route on the Visorando app or on a GPS is very useful. See the practical information section.
Pilon de Belmaig from Pujol del Mig
An easier way to climb this pleasant summit in Vallespir is from Arles-sur-Tech.
(!) Access to the start of the hike is impossible by car: the road has been closed since 9 November 2024. Situation unchanged on 9 November 2025.
Former mining station of Formentera - Coll de Reducta - Montbolo
Partly open hike with views of the mountains.This hike is classified as difficult because there are few markings on the climb to the old mining station.The descent is easier thanks to the red and yellow markings to Montbolo, then yellow.Accessible by public transport, see practical information.GPX track required in some places. (!) Please note: on 27 February 2026, I was informed that the trail is impassable from (6) to (7) due to numerous large fallen trees entangled in this part of the forest.First option: go directly from (6) to (10) via the track and possibly make a return trip to (8) in Formentera via (9). Option2: go directly from (6) to (10) via the track and continue the route towards (11), etc., without going to Formentera.
Saint-Paul circular
A short walk around the Chapel and the Mas de Sant-Pau. Beautiful panoramic views of Reynes and Céret.
First part along the tarmac road (very little traffic) then along the paths.
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.
La Tour de Mir from Prats-de-Mollo
An original way to climb the Tour de Mir via a well-markedPR®® trail (March 2020). The return journey is via the beautifulGRP®® Tour du Vallespir trail, which is also very well marked (March 2020).The Tour de Mir, which is accessible, offers a 360° panorama. Good signposting and good paths allow for smooth progress.
Roc Sant Salvador - France-Spain border from Montalbà d'Amélie
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.
Coll de Pregon and Coll de Siern, Serra and Baraques de l'Ullat from La Preste
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.
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.
Camí de La Retirada - Col d'Ares - Ronde du Canigó - Tour de Mir
This is a fairly strenuous hike up to Coll d'Ares.Pass via the La Retireda path, theGRP®® Ronde du Canigó and theGRP®® Tour du Vallespir.This hike is classified as difficult due to its length, elevation gain and the need for good orientation skills.The entire hike is marked and there are no difficult sections. See practical information (¹).Accessible by public transport, see practical information (²).
La Torre del Mir, the bear trap and Puig Sec
A fairly challenging hike with magnificent scenery.Three things to see: the Mir Tower, where you can climb up to enjoy a 360° view of the landscape; the bear trap; and Puig Sec, from where you can see a large part of the Eastern Pyrenees.The climb to the tower is not particularly difficult.The return journey requires more attention in terms of orientation and the sparse markings of different colours.Accessible by public transport, see practical information.
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).
Tours of Cabrenç from Serralongue
First, following the description, there is the Tower (signal tower), the Keep (garrison), then the Castle.Magnificent landscapes along the path connecting these buildings.- Do not underestimate this long hike. The GPX track will be a great help on this route with its many crossroads and junctions. The descent from the castle is very tricky.- There are many places and viewpoints from which to admire the landscape.- Short version options * in Practical Information.Classified as difficult because of the route between the tower, the keep, the castle and the descent from it.- The five fords ** may be problematic after heavy rain (observed on 15 June 2023).
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).
Roc de Sant Salvador from Montalbà d'Amélie
A very beautiful circular with a variety of trails. An exceptional view from the rock over Roussillon, the Canigou massif and Spain. The hike is particularly technical with many difficult passages. You must pay close attention to the trail. Access to the peak itself is reserved for experienced hikers: there is a 5-metre descent that is extremely difficult to navigate without a rope. With these warnings in mind, this is one of the most beautiful hikes in Vallespir.Visorando app recommended.
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.
Loop of the Ullat huts and the Refuge des Conques from La Preste
A very pretty circular path, well signposted and mostly shaded. Can be done in either direction. In the direction described, a lunch break can be planned at the Refuge des Conques. After the footbridge (2), the climb that follows is steady and continues through a magnificent beech forest. Water supply (7) at the edge of the forest, just before the huts. The Tech pass can be difficult, depending on the season. Then cross another beech forest, which is just as pretty. From Coll Baix (12), you can take the GRP® directly and reach the Roca Rodona fork. Shorter version of La Preste - Jasse de l'Ullat - Las Conques - Collada de la Solana
(!) Please note the GRP® detour. 25 July 2025. From(17) to (S/E). Detour (risk of falling rocks) La Preste
La Preste - Jasse de l'Ullat - Las Conques - Collada de la Solana
Hike in the heart of the Prats-de-Mollo - La Preste Nature Reserve at the foot of Costabonne.Passage on connecting paths between the grazing areas of this mountain.Possibility of shortening the hike depending on the time available.
(!) Please note the GRP® detour.25 July 2025. From (14) to (S/E). Detour (risk of falling rocks) La Preste
From the Pont du Diable in Céret to the Château d'Aubiry
A short, easy family walk that takes you from the beautiful Pont du Diable bridge in Céret to the Château d'Aubiry and its grounds. The imposing Canigou massif dominates the Têt valley in the distance. The château was built by Jean Bardou (founder of the JOB brand) for one of his children.
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.
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.
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 of Coll de Siern and Cabane de l'Ullat from La Preste
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.