Greenways in Catalan country

25/01/2021
Tourism

Greenways in the Catalan Country : 7 bike routes between sea and mountains

The greenways in the Catalan Country constitute a true paradise for lovers of nature and soft mobility. With more than 680 kilometers of routes spread over several routes in the Pyrénées-Orientales, the territory offers an exceptional diversity of landscapes : Mediterranean coast, Roussillon plain, vineyards, foothills of the Albères and first slopes of the Pyrenees.

Today, the greenways in the Catalan Country represent one of the most pleasant cycle networks in the south of France. They connect the sea, mountains and Catalan villages in complete safety.

Whether you are an occasional cyclist, lover of quiet walks or fan of electric bikes, these secure trails allow you to discover the region differently, with complete peace of mind, far from traffic and hustle and bustle.

Whether you stay for a few days or several weeks, the greenways in the Catalan Country offer an ideal alternative to the car to discover the territory in a different way.

Located between Argelès-sur-Mer, Le Boulou, Céret and Perpignan, these cycle paths structure the entire territory and allow you to discover the Albères by bike in complete freedom.

Greenways from Les Albères

Since the calm of Domaine Pedra Llampada, it only takes a few pedal strokes to reach one of the greenways in the Catalan Country, notably the Argelès–Le Boulou cycle path and treat yourself to a peaceful getaway, between sea and nature, at the pace that suits you. This portion allows you to cycle either towards the coast, either inland.

The environment alternates between natural areas, passages along rivers and unobstructed views of the Albères massif. This geographical location is ideal for reaching several routes in the department without logistical constraints..

In this sector, l’EuroVelo 8, also called “The Mediterranean by bike”, crosses Villelongue-dels-Monts in particular before joining Montesquieu-des-Albères then Le Boulou. This structuring axis connects the sea and the mountains on a route designed and accessible to intermediate-level cyclists..

This proximity to Villelongue-dels-Monts makes it possible to consider half-day outings., in a calm and preserved environment.

Stay in the Albères allows you to quickly enjoy these slopes without having to take the car.

The greenway Perpignan – Thuir

This route connects the capital of Roussillon to the town of Thuir crossing the wine-growing plain. The course is relatively flat and accessible to all, ideal for a relaxed outing.

We discover there :

Typical agricultural landscapes
The wine route
Traditional Catalan villages

It’s a pleasant route for half a day., with the possibility of taking a gourmet break at a local market or on a terrace.

The greenway Perpignan – Sainte-Marie-la-Mer

This track connects Perpignan to the Mediterranean coast in complete safety. Gradually, the urban atmosphere gives way to natural spaces before reaching the light and the horizon of the seaside.

Arrival at Sainte-Marie-la-Mer offers a great reward : the iodized air, the sound of the waves and a peaceful walk facing the Mediterranean.

The Saleilles – Canet-Plage greenway

Accessible and secure, this route is particularly reassuring for occasional cyclists. Its flat terrain and fluid route make it a comfortable and pleasant route.

It allows you to reach Canet-Plage smoothly, to enjoy a moment facing the sea before quietly heading back home.

The major coastal route Argelès – Barcarès

This is one of the longest routes in the department.. Starting from Argelès-sur-Mer, the route crosses Canet-en-Roussillon before joining Le Barcarès.

This route offers :

Wide panoramas of the Mediterranean
Passages along the pond
A constant maritime atmosphere

Mostly flat, it allows you to travel several tens of kilometers without any particular difficulty. We cycle there with the feeling of space and freedom specific to the Catalan coast..

The greenway Céret – Arles-sur-Tech

Nestled in the Vallespir, this greenway invites you to a more mountainous immersion, in a peaceful and authentic atmosphere. The relief becomes slightly more present, without being demanding, and the landscapes are adorned with forests, of rivers and open panoramas on the first foothills of the Pyrenees.

Along the Tech valley, we cross Catalan villages with discreet charm, between Romanesque heritage and local traditions.

In spring, nature is bright and generous ; in the fall, the colors of the foliage and the mild climate make the walk particularly pleasant. An ideal getaway for those who like to cycle leisurely and savor the scenery.

Integrated into the cross-border network pyrenexus, this portion is part of a large loop linking Northern Catalonia to Southern Catalonia, passing through Figueres, Olot ou encore Palamós. An invitation to consider cycling as a real travel experience, between sea, Catalan villages and volcanic landscapes.

The Agly greenway

The Agly greenway is one of the emblematic sections of greenways in the Catalan Country. Leaving Barcarès towards Rivesaltes, it runs along the Agly and crosses varied landscapes, between ponds, vineyards and hinterland.

Combined with the coastal route from Argelès-sur-Mer, it allows you to travel almost 47 km and continuous, connecting sea and Catalan countryside in the same day.

L'EuroVelo 8 : a European axis in the heart of the Albères

Great new development, l’EuroVelo 8 connects Argelès-sur-Mer to Boulou on approximately 28 km. This international route crosses the territory offering a beautiful diversity of landscapes :

Seaside in Argelès
Passage along the Massane
Crossing natural areas
Arrival at the foot of the Albères
Passage through Villelongue-dels-Monts
Direction Montesquieu then Le Boulou

With a moderate elevation gain and an intermediate level, this portion is an excellent day outing.

Some sections are shared with pedestrians or traffic : it is therefore important to respect the highway code and provide good hydration.

Explore the Catalan Country by bike

The greenways in the Catalan Country allow you to discover the Côte Vermeille, the Roussillon plain, and Vallespir, the foothills of Albères and the wine-growing landscapes at the pace that suits you.

Pedal here, it’s taking the time to observe the light on the vines, to cross a still peaceful Catalan village, to stop to admire the mountain or the sea. It’s a gentle and soothing way to discover the territory, far from busy roads.

From the Albères, it becomes easy to alternate coastal walks, hinterland escapades and more ambitious routes like EuroVelo 8. A simple way to reconnect with nature and fully enjoy your stay, between sea and mountain.

The greenways in the Catalan Country are now establishing themselves as a reference for a cycling holiday between the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees.

Choosing greenways in the Catalan Country, it’s choosing gentle tourism, accessible and authentic.

FAQ – Greenways in the Catalan Country

How many kilometers do greenways represent in the Catalan Country? ?

The department has more than 680 km of routes dedicated to cycling and soft mobility.

L'EuroVelo 8 does it pass through the Albères ?
Oui, the Argelès – Le Boulou section crosses Villelongue-dels-Monts and Montesquieu-des-Albères in particular.

Are greenways suitable for families? ?
Oui, several routes are flat and secure, particularly around Perpignan and the coast.

Can you travel these routes by electric bike? ?
Oui, VAEs are perfectly suited, especially for portions with slight elevation.

What is the best season for cycling in the Catalan Country? ?
Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures, but the trails are passable all year round.