On the Madres, Pyrenees Orientales, France




Opoul, Corbières, France

Hiking and walking

Here in the eastern Pyrenees, the mountains meet the Mediterranean sea in a symphony of rocky coves and cliffs, offering a series of tempting walks inland with views overlooking the coast. Further inland we explore the Pyrenees chain starting from the Canigou at 2784 m which is the first significant peak that dominates the Roussillon plain. Then it's a question of how much time you've got to spend because the opportunities for long hikes in the Cerdagne and Capcir region are endless. The most famous walks are certainly beautiful but you're likely to spend most of your time in other people's company. That's why I recommend taking you off the main trails and exploring the lesser known but equally spectacular walks of the Pyrenees.

If you prefer to combine the pleasures of the sea and the gentle foothills of the Corbières, I run walks in and around the vineyards. If you haven't heard of the Agly valley yet, you soon will do! This area northwest of Perpignan is becoming famous for its particular bedrock that produces world class wines. Come and try one of my wine tours! On a typical day we walk for a few hours in the morning, stop for lunch along the way and maybe meet up with a producer in the vines who will talk us through his work before tasting his wines in the cellar, followed by lunch. More walking in the afternoon through the mediterranean countryside punctuated with visits to a cathar castle, a prehistoric cave, spectacular gorges, a roman aquaduct, dry stone huts from the 19th century, a roman chapel... during dinner in the evening, the chef will explains how he selected the wine to match each course.

Whatever your preference, you can ask for a personalised program to suit your walking ability and special interests. I can also arrange accomodation and transport for you. Our nearest airport is Perpignan-Rivesaltes (flights with Ryanair, BMIbaby, Air France), followed by Girona in Spain, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Montpellier, Barcelona.

For examples of previous walking holidays, click on the link: Agly valley

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International mountain guide Paul Cieslar, mountain leader Sarah Ginty
0033 (0)4 68 29 45 07 - 0033 (0)6 84 04 59 82 contact guide Vingrau F- 66600
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