The 5 most beautiful hikes to do in Canigou

With this selection of the best hikes in Canigou, go to the legendary summit of the Pyrenees-Orientales!

From the top of its majestic silhouette, the peak of Canigou stands on the Pyrenees-Orientales. Excluding 2,784 metres of altitude, it is often visible up to Marseille and the Mediterranean coast as well as from Catalonia . For Catalans, moreover, the “mass of the” Canigó » has long been a mythical and legendary place!

Graviating this high mountain peak is discovering varied and spectacular landscapes. But it is also a small sporting challenge, because the ascent of the summit is rather steep! Discover our best hiking guide in Canigou to find the most suitable for your desires and your level.

No doubt, in any event, to revive the peak of Canigou will be a strong experience. We would not be surprised to count you soon, as writer Rudyard Kipling described himself, “to the loyal subjects of Canigou”...

1. The ascent of the Canigó from Cortalets

This hike corresponds to the most accessible route to climb the summit of the Canigou peak. Indeed, although the ascent remains sporty, you walk a reasonable distance and denial from the shelter of the Cortalets. It should be noted that this route is particularly recommended in the summer, while it may be dangerous in the winter.

In addition to the pride of reaching the top and the cross that is planted there, you will enjoy a spectacular view. Throughout this loop you will discover splendid landscapes oscillating between blocks of stone and soft wooded slopes. As for the passage along the pretty Lac de l’Estanyol, it will be the perfect opportunity to take a well-deserved break!

On arrival, you can enjoy the terrace of the refuge with its superb view to rejuvenate before you return to the road!

2. From the pas de Jou to the refuge of Marialles

This medium difficulty hike will allow you to enjoy the Canigou landscape by avoiding the more technical climb to the top. We offer you to do it in the form of a return trip from the Col de Jou. With a shady walk in the direction of the Mariailles refuge, you will discover beautiful sources and streams... You'll even approach a small waterfall!

In addition, you will immerse yourself in the pastoral past of the massif. So you will see the ruins of a sheepfold but also the orris, dry stone huts used by the shepherds.

At the Mariailles refuge, at 1,700 metres above sea level, you can regain strength before attacking the return. Or spend the night to try the ascent to the top...

3. The Ascension of Canigó by Mariailles

Reserved for athletes, this hike is the most beautiful but also the most intense way to reach the top of the Canigou. At the start of Mariailles, you will make a long and beautiful ascent of the peak. Note that due to the important distance and denial, this hike requires a little training. It is also not advisable to people subject to vertigo because the so-called "fireplace" passage before the top is quite impressive!

If you feel able to make this adventure, then don’t hesitate! This absolutely superb hike will bring you the best of the Canigó. Green pastures, coniferous forests, rugged terrains, vivid torrents, stone "fireplace"... You will enjoy the most spectacular landscapes in the region! At the top, you will finally discover a breathtaking panorama.

More demanding than climbing from Cortalets, this difficult hike has the advantage of being less crowded and quieter. To take advantage of this, you will have to focus on summer and leave early in the morning to finish it in the day.

4. Cabane Estables au Pic de Canigou

With this strong denial , this ascent of the Pic du Canigou is very difficult. You can also choose to do it with a guide . It is a short-lived round-trip hike, the departure of which is not far from Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste. The trail you will take is mainly used for hiking but also for nature observation. During your journey, you will go along a lake and reach the Pic du Canigou after a big day of walking.

5. Ascension of Canigou

This climb of the Canigou with a difficult level and nearly 55 km is made on 2 days . During the first day, you will follow a very pleasant shaded underwood path. After a consequent positive denial, you will then reach the shelter of the Cortalets to rest and rest for the next day.

Indeed, the ascent of Canigou is done on the second day. In particular, you will have to climb a little (nothing infeasible) and pass through the famous Canigou chimney, one of the emblematic passages that make the piment of the Pyrenean High Route. This hike will undoubtedly offer many breathtaking panoramic views.

With four ways to reach the top and a quieter route on the sides, you will only have the embarrassment of choice to explore the Canigou in all its seams.