Greenways in the Catalan Country :
bike rides between sea and mountains
Cycling with the Albères in the background, follow a river or reach the coast : in Catalan Country, bike rides allow you to discover the landscapes at a different pace. We stop in a village, we take the time to look at the reliefs and we choose our route according to our desires.
The greenways in the Catalan Country offer several possibilities for a family walk, an outing for two or a more sporty getaway. Around them, cycle routes extend the discovery of the Pyrénées-Orientales, with routes that can alternate separate traffic tracks and shared roads.
From Albères to the coast, passing through Vallespir and the Roussillon plain, here are the guidelines for choosing a ride suited to your level and preparing your outing.
Greenways in the Catalan Country : distinguish the arrangements
Before choosing a route, it is useful to understand the difference between greenway and one cycle route.
A greenway is a development reserved for non-motorized travel., particularly for cyclists and pedestrians. It is separated from car traffic, subject to authorized access for certain service vehicles.
A cycle route designates a cycle route which can use different arrangements : greenways, cycle paths and roads shared with motorized vehicles.
A route presented as a cycle route is therefore not necessarily a greenway over its entire length.. This distinction is particularly important when you are planning an outing with children..
Signage, intersections and traffic conditions must always be taken into account, even on a route known to be easy.
A bike ride in the Albères
At the foot of the Albères, the paths and cycle facilities allow you to discover the landscapes between villages, cultures et reliefs.
From the area of Villelongue-dels-Monts and Saint-Génis-des-Fontaines, you can organize an outing to Le Boulou or towards Argelès-sur-Mer, by choosing the portions adapted to your level.
In the Alfred Sauvy high school area, in Villelongue-dels-Monts, access to the cycle route allows you to reach this axis. Identify your route before you leave : the connection from your accommodation and the chosen route may include portions on the road.
Towards Le Boulou
By taking the direction of Boulou, you discover the interior with the Albères in the background.
You can plan a short outing with a return by the same route, or a longer ride depending on your fitness and equipment. It is not necessary to reach a distant destination to enjoy the route.
Towards Argelès-sur-Mer
In the other direction, the walk brings you closer to the coast. The landscape gradually evolves between plain, villages et horizon maritime.
Define your arrival point before departure : joining Argelès village or continuing to the beach does not represent the same distance. Also think about the return journey, especially when the heat or the wind makes the effort more important.
The other greenways of the Pyrénées-Orientales
To vary the outputs, several routes allow you to explore other landscapes of the department. Some require you to reach their starting point by car or with an adapted means of transport.
The Perpignan–Thuir greenway
The Perpignan–Thuir greenway offers a route of approximately 15 kilometers. The Department presents it as an easy route, with a smooth coating.
It constitutes a possibility for a walk in the Roussillon plain, away from motorized traffic on the developed section.
Before leaving, identify the access points and any necessary connections from your parking point. If you complete the entire round trip, plan approximately 30 kilometers, to which connection paths can be added.
The Perpignan–Sainte-Marie-la-Mer connection
The Department also lists a greenway Perpignan–Sainte-Marie-la-Mer, announced on approximately 10 kilometers.
This route allows you to consider an exit towards the coast. However, check the starting and ending points of the developed section : the advertised distance does not necessarily correspond to your complete journey from the center of Perpignan or to the beach.
These two courses are presented on the Department page dedicated to cycle tourism.
The Agly greenway
In the north of the department, the Agly greenway connects the Rivesaltes sector to that of Barcarès on an announced route of approximately 15 kilometers.
It allows you to discover the plain by following the axis of the river. The Department describes it as an easy route, without significant difference in altitude.
Exposure to the sun and wind nevertheless remains to be taken into account. Bring water and choose a distance that gives you enough energy for the return.
This greenway is not a loop of 47 kilometers. If you wish to integrate it into a longer outing from another town, calculate the connections separately and check their traffic conditions.
Le Vallespir, between Céret and Arles-sur-Tech
The Vallespir offers another atmosphere, closer to the reliefs and valley landscapes.
The route pyrenexus crosses this sector and allows you to consider outings around Céret, Amélie-les-Bains and Arles-sur-Tech.
However, it should not be presented as a continuous greenway along the entire route.. Depending on the portion chosen, the route may include developed sections and shared routes.
For a quiet walk, select a section adapted to your comfort and check the height difference. Extensions towards the passes require different preparation from a walk in the plain.
The coastline with The Mediterranean by bike
The route EuroVelo 8, The Mediterranean by bike, crosses the Pyrénées-Orientales and connects several sectors of Albères and the coast.
You can borrow a portion of it to discover the surroundings of Argelès-sur-Mer, of Saint-Cyprien, from Canet-en-Roussillon or Barcarès.
It is not a single continuous greenway between all these destinations. The types of arrangements vary according to the sections.
Consult the official presentation of the major cycle routes to prepare your route and distinguish greenways from shared portions.
How to prepare for your bike ride ?
A pleasant walk begins with a route adapted to the people accompanying you.
Choose a realistic distance
For a first outing, choose a short journey that you can extend if everyone feels comfortable.
Before leaving, check :
- The total distance, return included.
- The difference in altitude.
- The type of coating.
- Possible on-road portions.
- Break possibilities.
- Weather and wind strength.
An easy distance on the way out can seem more demanding on the way back, especially with a headwind.
Provide the necessary equipment
Carry water, sun protection, a charged phone and enough to deal with a small breakdown if you know how to use the equipment.
Check the brakes, tires and saddle adjustment. For an electric bike, check the battery charge and adapt the use of assistance to the length of the route.
Helmets are mandatory for children under the age of 12 years, whether they drive or are passengers. It remains recommended for all cyclists.
Share the lane with other users
On the greenways, you may come across pedestrians, families and other cyclists.
Adapt your speed, announce your presence before passing and leave enough space. Also respect the signs, crossings and possible temporary restrictions.
Separation from cars does not exempt you from remaining attentive.
Organize a walk from the Pedra Llampada Estate
HAS Villelongue-dels-Monts, The Pedra Llampada Estate allows you to alternate days at the lodge and bike rides at the foot of the Albères.
We offer the loan of electrically assisted bicycles to discover the surroundings. Before your exit, discuss with us the equipment available and the planned route.
Access to the cycle route in the Alfred Sauvy high school area allows you to prepare for a ride towards Le Boulou or Argelès-sur-Mer.
Choose your distance according to your desires : a walk of a few hours, a break in a village or a longer outing. The main thing is to keep a pleasant pace and plan the return.
FAQ about greenways in the Catalan Country
Can you explore the greenways on foot? ?
Oui, greenways are also open to pedestrians, in compliance with local signs. Cyclists and walkers must share space carefully.
Are all cycle routes separated from cars? ?
Non. A cycle route can include greenways, cycle paths and shared roads. Check each section before departure.
Which route to choose for a family outing ?
Choose a short portion, slightly steep and separated from traffic. The Perpignan–Thuir and Agly greenways can be considered, by selecting a distance suitable for children and checking access.
Do you need an electric bike? ?
Non, a classic bike is suitable for many gentle routes. Electric assistance can make certain exits easier, but it does not replace the choice of a suitable distance or the preparation.
Can we go by bike from the Pedra Llampada Estate? ?
Oui. You can organize a ride from the Domaine to join the cycle route in the Alfred Sauvy high school area.. Locate the connection and choose your route before leaving.
Where to check routes before a trip ?
Consult the information of Department of Pyrénées-Orientales on bicycle travel, as well as the tourist offices concerned. Also check for any temporary works or restrictions.
Discover the Catalan Country at your own pace
The greenways in the Catalan Country allow you to vary your discoveries : a walk at the foot of the Albères, a route in the Roussillon plain or an outing along the Agly.
No need to multiply the kilometers to enjoy the day. A well-chosen route, a few breaks and the time to observe the landscapes are enough to give another perspective to your stay.
Since the cottages of the Domaine Pedra Llampada, compose your vacation between bike rides, discoveries of villages and moments of relaxation at the foot of the Albères.
