Office du tourisme Prades herbergement

Le Canigou

This mountain sacred to all Catalans rises to a height of 2784m The Canigou, a nature reserve and “Grand Site” is, for all lovers of nature, a special place. The flora and fauna is rich and varied. Mount Canigou with a vast network of paths and tracks has endless possibilities for walks, hikes, and mountain biking. Most are accessible from June to October, (these dates can be affected by early or late snow falls, depending on the area). The Canigou mountain, emblem of the eastern Pyrenees and the Catalans, dominates the plains of Roussillon and the Mediterranean sea. It is distinguished by its height, steep sided slopes, and its proximity to the sea. The routes which lead to the summit are dirt tracks and require experience in mountain driving (steep slopes, very narrow passing places etc........) These tracks are not recommended for private cars. Respect the regulations and official parking places. Before starting your journey please call at the local tourist office for the latest information on weather and the track conditions. The local paths are numerous, easy and are relatively well signposted (yellow paint mark). The “Ronde du Canigou” allows the walker to discover the different villages nestling in the foothills of the Canigou in 8 days. The “Tour du Canigou” invites the walker to view wonderful scenery at a higher level (1500 - 2000 m).

There are a variety of ways of reaching the summit on foot, here are just two:

From the Col de Millières, or the village of Fillols, the path wends its way through woods and from time to time it crosses the dirt track, the path continues to the Chalet des Cortalets (mountain hut), the Pic Joffre and the Pic du Canigou. Approx 6 hour walk. The return journey will take about 5 hours. This is not a difficult hike except for the height difference (1942m)

From the Chalet de Marialles, it takes about 4 hours to reach the peak (1054m height difference). This is a fairly easy walk till you reach the “Chimney” which is rocky face that you have to cross to reach the peak. Beware of falling rocks and strong winds. People that suffer from vertigo should not do this walk. Return by the same route or continue to the Chalet des Cortalets. Spend the night there and the next day follow the GR10 to Marialles 6h30.

The Canigou by 4x4

From Prades
Mr Colas tel 0033 (0)4 68 05 27 08
From Villefranche Mr Bouzan tel 0033 (0)4 68 05 99 89

Mountain Huts ( with wardens)

Chalet des Cortalets: open from June to October, accomodation for 85 tel 0033 (0)4 68 96 36 19 - 0033 (0)4 68 05 63 57

Chalet de Marialles: open all year round, accomodation for 55 tel 0033 (0)4 68 05 57 99 - 0033 (0)4 68 96 22 90

Small huts and shelters are dotted about the mountainside. These are very basic which means that you must come well equipped (duvet, matress, cooking utensils, food, etc). Check the opening times of these shelters before leaving. Camping is not allowed, only bivouacking, (sunset to sunrise).

Caution

A great deal of care has gone into the preparation of this text, however the information that it contains can in no way make the tourist office liable. Information can change frequently, so please check it out before leaving. You alone are responsible for your actions. Great care should be taken and the fact that you have this document does not mean you can manage without guide books and maps.

Practical information andTips:

A walk in the Canigou is an opportunity to wander through a mountainous region discovering its many facets, while respecting the environment.

Prepare your hike carefully making sure that you have the correct walking equipment and adequate food supplies.

Take a map of the area so that you can see what type of hike you are undertaking.

Do not litter the mountain, bring back litter and place in the litter bins in the towns or villages.

Light fires only in authorised places. Beware of fire hasards, never throw away lighted cigarette ends or matches.

Stay on designated paths, short cuts can cause you to lose your way, and contribute to ground erosion.

Be prepared to retrace your steps should you encounter bad weather conditions or if you feel tired or exhausted.

Never leave without consulting the weather forecast. The weather can change very quickly in the mountains, and storms can be violent and frequent in the summer.

Avoid hiking on your own and always indicate the route you are taking to member of the family, friend, or the local police.

Leave early in the morning to avoid the heat and eventual storms that could break out in the afternoon.

Keep your dog on a lead and away from flocks of sheep .

Remember to close all forest gates once you have used them.

Map References: Carte au 1/50 000e :
Canigou, Pyrénées n° 10 ( Rando -Edition) Carte au 1/25 000e : IGN. série Top 25: Massif du canigou n° 234

The Nature Reserves The Nature Reserves are defined and regulated areas for the protection of all species of animals and plant life that have chosen to live in that area. In the Conflent region ( from Vinça to Mont Louis) there are seven Nature Reserves.