Argeles Nature Trail 2024 - "Font Andreu"
ARGELES SUR MER
Argeles Nature Trail 2024 - "Font Andreu"
Hard
3h
14,2km
+808m
-802m
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New Year, New Routes, New Challenges Await!
This 14 km loop is designed to introduce you to trail running around the Château de Valmy, with the iconic Tour de la Massane as the main goal.
The route combines tracks and trails, passing by the St. Laurent Chapel, ascending to the Tour de la Massane, and descending through the Basin and the Dolmens Collets de Cotlliure.
With an intermediate format and around 800 meters of elevation gain, this varied trail is a "fun" experience that can be tackled with a focus on performance—or simply for the joy of it!
This 14 km loop is designed to introduce you to trail running around the Château de Valmy, with the iconic Tour de la Massane as the main goal.
The route combines tracks and trails, passing by the St. Laurent Chapel, ascending to the Tour de la Massane, and descending through the Basin and the Dolmens Collets de Cotlliure.
With an intermediate format and around 800 meters of elevation gain, this varied trail is a "fun" experience that can be tackled with a focus on performance—or simply for the joy of it!
5 points of interest
- 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! - 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). - 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? - 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. - 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
Altimetric profile
Recommandations
Before Heading Out on the Trail:
Check weather conditions and massif access restrictions during fire alert periods.
Respect the work of farmers, operators, and property owners.
Close all gates and avoid cutting across fields.
Carry all your waste back to the designated collection points at the start of your hike.
Trail Versatility:
These trail routes are also excellent for hiking.
Check weather conditions and massif access restrictions during fire alert periods.
Respect the work of farmers, operators, and property owners.
Close all gates and avoid cutting across fields.
Carry all your waste back to the designated collection points at the start of your hike.
Trail Versatility:
These trail routes are also excellent for hiking.