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Canigou

The best spots to admire it!

A balcony overlooking the Canigou at Torre del Far

In Tautavel, this medieval watchtower stands 400 m above sea level, guaranteeing an unobstructed view over the Roussillon plain.
Its use was far more strategic in the Middle Ages, keeping watch over the Roussillon region as far as the Verdouble valley. Built on a rocky promontory, it also served as a means of communication with other towers in the region.
The site can be reached on foot, after a short 6 km hike that takes 2 hrs 35 min. Once up there, enjoy the panoramic view and appreciate the distance between sea and mountains!

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From Lac de Villeneuve-de-la-Raho

Close to Perpignan, its 50 hectares of green spaces and its water reservoirs, when they are not dry, are much appreciated for a contemplative stroll along the Canigou.
Lac de Villeneuve lends itself to a wide range of outdoor activities, as well as picnics with family and friends.
Around the southernmost reservoir is the Villeneuve-de-la-Raho bird sanctuary. Be sure to respect the tranquility of the species that live there.

Meet at the Cabestany orientation table

Follow the Via Domitia, a 150-metre path through the vineyards, to reach the Cabestany town orientation table. From here, you'll have a 360° view of the Albères, the Corbières and the Canigou.

The orientation table was installed in 2003 and designed by E. Freixinos.
GPS coordinates for access:

  • Latitude (Y) 42.6851
  • Longitude (X) 2.96164

A website lists all the orienteering tables in the Pyrenees. Find out about other tables in the department.

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Canigou quay evening

Quai Vauban, Perpignan

Depending on where you are in Perpignan, the Canigou will transport you into different atmospheres.

  • The Quai Vauban seems to be a strategic place to observe it.
  • At least as much as from the passerig Torcatis pedestrian bridge over the Têt. 

After a sunny day, the sky turns red and orange as the sun sets. It's a spectacle that often lights up the sky and makes the eyes of young and old shine.

A bend in the pond at Canet-Saint-Nazaire

A protected natural environment, thanks to its classification as a Natura 2000 zone, this is the ultimate nature spot to see the Canigou. The calm pond, the birds taking off from this natural area, the boats, nets and fishermen's huts as decorative elements and this breathtaking snow-covered mountain: get your cameras ready. Make us dream!

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On the road to Ponteilla-Nyls

Let's head for Ponteilla, the village with two bell towers on the Aspres plain!
Observe the Canigou in the heart of an abundant terroir, made possible by a wealth of vineyards. At the end of winter, when the snow hasn't completely melted, enjoy the almond blossom between February and March, an awakening of nature conducive to beautiful memories.

Our nugget in Força Réal

Above the village of Monter, at 510 meters above sea level, Força Réal is our favorite place to see the Canigou, whatever the season! While up there, discover the hermitage and enjoy the view of Canigou, the Agly and Têt valleys. From Força Réal, as from other high points, you'll get a better idea of Perpignan Méditerranée's relationship with the sea and the mountains.
Beware of the weather if you set off on the climb, whether on foot, by bike or by car. The wind blows hard, as the site is not sheltered.  

View of força real

In the commune of Calce

In the commune of Calce. Venture to this winegrowing village and on the road to Estagel, towards the Château de Las Font, you'll enjoy some lovely views.