[Connection] Lavail - Massane Tower
Laure Barrère
SOREDE

[Connection] Lavail - Massane Tower

Flora
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More than 500 meters of elevation gain in less than 4 kilometers – a real uphill challenge for trail enthusiasts.

Please note that the road leading to the hamlet of Lavail from the D2 (between Sorède and Argelès) is closed to vehicles during the summer season.
A dry link between Lavail and the Tour de la Massane for fans of hiking and multi-day trips."

In this context, "itinérance" refers to hiking or trekking, often over several days, so "hiking and multi-day trips" captures the meaning well.

2 points of interest

  • Gneiss leucocrates dans le lit de la Massane
    Gneiss leucocrates dans le lit de la Massane - Guide ADT
    Geology

    Le champ filonien du val de la Massane

    The wild gorges of the Massane are dug through the most metamorphic rocks (transformation of minerals under the effect of pressure or temperature) of the Massif des Albères. The most remarkable geological character is the presence of numerous leucocratic magmatic injection veins (rock made up of clear minerals). These veins are of all sizes but one of the most remarkable, of kilometer size, outcrops at the foot of the Tower of Massane (BRGM).
  • CCACVI
    Cultural heritage

    Tour de la Massane

    This watchtower, built by the Kings of Majorca, offers an exceptional point of view on the Plaine du Roussillon. At 793 meters altitude, the tower is a landmark for hikers of the massif. The famous Cassini cartographer even used it as a geodesic landmark in 1701 for his meridian work. He manages to find a difference of 397 toises between the foot of the Tower and Collioure (an altitude of 780 meters). Rather precise for the time, no?

Description

  1. Start from the parking lot of the hamlet of Lavail, on Chemin de Saint André (paved road), then from the parking lot, take the dirt path and follow the trail along the river and the gorges of 'La Massane.'
  2. At the first trail on the left, begin the ascent towards the ridges in the direction of Roc del Grill, just before the bed of Correc del Oms. 100 meters further, you can reach the ridges via Coll del Pomer.
  3. At Roc del Grill, turn right and follow the signs to reach the Tower. Continue following the markings to reach the tower. Climb through the forest.
  4. Once at the tower, enjoy the magnificent panorama. The section between Roc del Grill and the Tower is part of the legendary Massane race route. Continue towards Col de la Place d'Armes to join the GR 10, or begin the descent towards Valmy following the directional signs.
  • Departure : Lavail parking lot
  • Towns crossed : SOREDE and ARGELES SUR MER

Altimetric profile

Recommandations

Bring water, a cap or hat, hiking shoes, and snacks.
Check the weather before departure.
Take your trash with you.

Access and parking

D2, Lavail Road

Parking :

Lavail parking lot