The Santa-Maria-del-Vilar Priory through the Mas Catalan
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The Santa-Maria-del-Vilar Priory through the Mas Catalan
VILLELONGUE DELS MONTS

The Santa-Maria-del-Vilar Priory through the Mas Catalan

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The discovery of a village in the Albères and its priory nestled in the massif. A brief detour through the peaceful district of the Mas Catalan in Laroque-des-Albères, overlooking the plain.
This dynamic route allows you to discover the village of Villelongue dels Monts, the Mas Catalans of Laroque nestled in the mountains, and after a forest stroll, to admire the Santa Maria del Vilar Priory.

1 point of interest

  • Cultural heritage

    Priory Santa Maria del Vilar

    Nestled in the heart of Albères, priory Santa Maria del Vilar crosses the ages. Founded in 1083, monks transformed the building from the Carolingian era into a hospitable pilgrim for Compostela and added a church. In 1802, the place changes completely function since it is sold to a farmer who transforms the church into a stable. Abandoned in 1942, it disappears gradually under the vegetation but has now been restored and hosts opera concerts.

Description

  1. Starting from the festivities area, head left, then straight ahead, passing in front of the church.
  2. At the end of the street, turn left and continue straight on Cami del Vilar.
  3. Keep left on Cami del Vilar.
  4. Turn left onto the paved path that goes downhill.
  5. Take the dirt track in front. The path ascends towards the Catalan farmhouses of Laroque-des-Albères.
  6. Arrive at the Mas Catalans at a dirt parking area with a cistern and a spring, then take the street that goes uphill (Chemin du Vilar) and follow it to the end.
  7. Turn left onto the dirt track that climbs into the Albères massif.
  8. You will reach a flat trail at a crossroads of tracks; take the one on the left following the yellow markings, heading towards Prieuré Santa Maria del Vilar.
  9. Continue to follow the markings. Do not go left. There is a fairly steep descent into the forest.
  10. Upon reaching the priory, you can visit it (only in the afternoons).
  11. Afterward, descend on Cami del Vilar back to the village center.
     
  • Departure : The festivities area of Villelongue-dels-Monts
  • Arrival : The festivities area of Villelongue-dels-Monts
  • Towns crossed : VILLELONGUE DELS MONTS and LAROQUE DES ALBERES

Altimetric profile

Recommandations

Bring water, a hat or cap, and a windbreaker. Check the weather before departure. Respect nature and carry out your waste.

Access and parking

D618, D61a, D11

Parking :

The town hall parking.