Argeles Nature Trail 2024- Massane Trail
ANT2024
ARGELES SUR MER

Argeles Nature Trail 2024- Massane Trail

Flora
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The Argelès Nature Trail is a recurring event held in spring in the Albèra region.
On Sunday, it features three races starting from the Château de Valmy:
La Massane Trail: 20 km (start at 9:00 a.m.)
La Font d'Andreu: 15 km (start at 9:30 a.m.)
La Ronde de Valmy: 10 km (start at 10:00 a.m.)
Additionally, there is a 10 km hike (start at 9:10 a.m.).
On Saturday, four races are organized for children.
Experience trail running or Nordic walking in a breathtaking setting!  
Food truck on-site!  
Plenty of prizes to be won.

6 points of interest

  • Stephane Ferrer
    Small patrimony

    Chapelle Saint Laurent

    The Romanesque church of Saint-Laurent-du-Mont is mentioned in a decree from King Lothair in 981, confirming the possessions of the Abbey of Saint-Génis. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful architectural treasures of the Argelès mountains. Rebuilt in the 12th century, it became a parish church serving the many farms nestled on the hillsides. In 1939, the building provided refuge for Spanish refugees fleeing the war. Today, the chapel is managed by the Association of the Hermitages of Argelès-sur-Mer. Go admire it!
  • 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?
  • Benjamin Collard

    Col de la Place d'Armes

    The Col de la Place d'Armes (Coll de la Placa d'Armes), located 677 meters above sea level, is a strategic point serving two distinct paths: on one side the path leading to the forest in the reserve de la Massane, and on the other the Tower of Massane. Rest for a moment in the shade on the rocks before making your route decision!
  • CCACVI
    Dolmen

    Dolmen dels Collets de Cotlliure

    Find this dolmen on the path that connects the Château de Valmy to the Tour de la Massane. The path will lead you first to the Dolmen de la Cova de l'Alarb, then you will arrive directly at the Dolmen del Collets area. Open your eyes and look around. The dolmen is there but in poor condition.
  • Vue du Parc Municipal de Valmy
    Vue du Parc Municipal de Valmy - ot Argelès
    Flora

    Valmy Municipal Park

    This park offers the most beautiful view of the commune and the landscapes of the Pyrénées-Orientales, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. In this romantic, green 5-hectare setting, you can relax and picnic in the shade of the forest (there’s a playground for children). Discover a walking trail dotted with unique signs that blend natural heritage with the history of the people of this land.

    2024 Opening Dates:
    • February 10 to April 30: daily from 10 am to 6 pm
    • May 1 to September 30: daily from 10 am to 7 pm
    • October 1 to November 3: daily from 10 am to 6 pm
    More informations

Description

Back to Basics in 2023
This trail immerses participants in nature, following rugged paths, steep inclines, and long distances.
The challenge begins with a climb from the Valmy Park to the Tour de la Massane, then descends near Rimbau, climbs again to the basin, and finally heads back down to the château—covering over 20 km and nearly 1,300 meters of positive elevation gain.
The route through the Albères offers stunning scenery: the Route des Mas, Saint-Laurent Chapel, Tour de la Massane, dolmens, and more.
It caters to trail and mountain running enthusiasts. However, its relatively "runnable" profile also makes it accessible to road runners, provided they are trained for the distance and ready to tackle a challenging elevation gain.
  • Departure : Valmy Castle
  • Arrival : Valmy Castle
  • Towns crossed : ARGELES SUR MER and SOREDE

Altimetric profile

Recommandations

Before Heading Out on the Trail :
Check the weather conditions and access restrictions to the massif during fire vigilance periods.
Respect the work of farmers, operators, and landowners.
Close gates, and avoid cutting across fields.
Carry your waste back to the designated collection points at the start of your hike.
The trails are also perfectly suited for hiking.

For more details, contact the event organizers.

Access and parking

D914

Parking :

Château de Valmy Parking Lot

More information