Mont et pic du Canigou
During fine weather, when the light is particularly bright and the air is clear, you can glimpse Marseille from the heights of the Massif du Canigou.
In the high realms of the Pyrenees
During fine weather, when the light is particularly bright and the air is clear, you can glimpse Marseille from the heights of the Massif du Canigou. At 2,784 metres, this majestic Pyrenean massif dominates the whole of Catalonia. With the region of Vallespir on one side and Confluent on the other, Canigou has long formed the natural boundary between these two ancient regions of Pyrénées-Orientales. The region has been inhabited by Man since prehistoric times and is particularly rich in dolmens and menhirs. In fact, the Museum of Prehistory at Tautavel is just a few kilometres to the north.
Stay close to nature as you explore some of the nature reserves of the Canigou range, like the Réserve Naturelle de Py or Mantet. From green pastureland to dense, untamed forests, Canigou resembles virgin territory…until you find yourself in one of its tiny remote villages like Conat.
The Canigou Massif is a great place for families to enjoy the fresh Pyrenean mountain air and discover the rich cultural heritage of the region. The 13th century Romanesque Chapelle of Saint-Vincent d’Eus and the Abbaye Saint-Martin du Canigou perched on a rocky peak are fine examples.
Into the wilds of Canigou !
Canigou is an open invitation to explore its wild landscape along its paths and trails ! There is no shortage of novel ways to do this like with a donkey or perhaps on an electric bike to help with long distances and the different types of mountain terrain. Horseback is also an excellent way of reaching the most remote parts of the area. Nevertheless, climbing to the summit of Canigou is the main preoccupation of all fans of trekking and outdoor experiences. A ‘first’ for some, a sporting feat for others, going up the mountain, whether via the Refuge des Cortalets or via Prat-Cabréra, leaves a lasting impression which is made even more memorable by watching the sunset from the summit over the hills and Vallée du Conflent.
Pyrenean experiences
Although the best views of the Pyrenees are from high up, there is no shortage of things to do in the rest of this Catalan mountain area ! There are activities like canyoning and treetop trails for those with a sense of adventure, but if you would rather keep your feet on the ground, a stroll through the narrow streets and around the harbour at Collioure is a most enjoyable experience too ! No time for children to get bored with a range of parks and amazing natural attractions like the Animal Park at Casteil where feeding wolves and lynxes is an unforgettable experience. Youngsters also love going underground at the Grottes des Grandes Canalettes caves which has an enchanting son-et-lumière show.
Useful information
Access and Transport
Pic du Canigou is accessible from Prades or Céret. Montpelier-Perpignan via A9 or Toulouse- Perpignan via A61, then N116 Perpignan to Prades or D115 Perpignan to Céret.
Address and contact details
Office de Tourisme
10 Place de la République
66500 Prades
Tel. : 04 68 05 41 02
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