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Catalonia Walking holiday
From Collioure to Cadaques - ""
Walk through Catalonia, where the foothills of the Pyrenees fall into the Mediterranean Sea as they cross the border between France and Spain. The Vermilion Coast (C´te Vermeille) and the Costa Brava coastline stretch from Perpignan in France to Tarragona, just south of Barcelona in Spain.
Terraced vineyards, turquoise waters, small rocky coves, sleepy little ports (that once thrived on sardine and anchovy fishing) and harbour towns like Collioure (the birthplace of Fauvism painting), Banyuls, Port de la Selva and Port Creus are some of the highlights of the region where the kings of Mallorca once had their summer homes.
Catalonia, renowned for its overabundance of festivals, where locals dance the “Sardane” hand-in-hand in the streets wearing handmade canvas espadrilles, has it all. From rolling hills that seem to protect ancient port towns, a long wine-growing tradition that produces a lively peppery wine, a unique seafood gastronomy as well as sun, sea, mountains and the fragrances of the Midi. Surrealist artist Dali grew up in this region, and as you walk you will uncover the landscapes that inspired him and even see the house in which he was born, visiting two museums dedicated to his life and works if you wish.
For all 7 days you will follow the coast having the chance to go for a swim in the warm Mediterranean water everyday.
How to get there? Click here
Day by Day & Hotels
Hotels & country cottages have been carefully selected for their location, comfort, character, food, and friendliness of the staff. They are subject to availability and if the hotel described is not available, we will provide you with one of the same standard of comfort & price. Please click on hotel information below.
There are 7 days
Day 1 – Coming to Collioure
After arriving in Collioure, a picturesque old fishing village, we will book you into our ... .. read more >
Meals: Breakfast Luggage Transfer: No
After arriving in Collioure, a picturesque old fishing village, we will book you into our designated 2-star hotel in the centre of town close to all facilities and only a few minutes from the sea. You may see the lively local card game of “belotte” being played here. Town: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities.
2* hotel with character in the centre of the town, en-suite. A/C. Close to the beach.
Day 2 – Tour Madaloc
Today you have 2 options: 1-Tour Madaloc, 15km, 6h, +/-656m. It is a long climb to the ... .. read more >
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Luggage Transfer: Yes
Today you have 2 options: 1-Tour Madaloc, 15km, 6h, +/-656m. It is a long climb to the Tour Madeloc (656m), but luckily there are plenty of places to rest and admire the picturesque “Cote de Vermeille” (Vermilion Coast). As you descend along the famed GR10 (a long-distance trail that crosses the Pyrenees) you can admire the hidden beaches, small creeks and turquoise waters below. 2-Cap Bear, 15km, 6h, +/-230m. After climbing to the old “Fort Sant Elme”, to admire the coastline, you have a rocky walk along cliffs to a massive lighthouse. The rest of the walk is through vineyards except for the village of Banyuls, at the foothills of the Pyrenees, where you should visit the aquarium, sample the local sweet wine and of course take a swim. Town: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities.
Hotel: 2* hotel “Logis de France”, 5mins from the beach. The restaurant has an excellent reputation & it has 2-star Michelin rating. Room en-suite. A/C.
Day 3 – The border
13km, 5h, +437m / -437m. From the village at sea level walk up to the Pic Joan (437m) for ... .. read more >
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Luggage Transfer: Yes
13km, 5h, +437m / -437m. From the village at sea level walk up to the Pic Joan (437m) for a splendid view of the coastline where you are only a couple of metres from Spain! You will arrive in Portbou at some stage in the afternoon, after walking down through vines and scrub, in time for a swim in the crisp Mediterranean Sea. Town: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities.
2* hotel overlooking the sea. The Manager, Montserat, has a very impressive collection of masks from Bali. They are exhibited in the hall. Room en-suite. A/C.
Day 4 – The Coves
12km ,5h, +202m / -202m. Today is one of the most enjoyable days of the trip, starting wit ... .. read more >
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Luggage Transfer: Yes
12km ,5h, +202m / -202m. Today is one of the most enjoyable days of the trip, starting with an ascent to Colle de Frare (202m) with an amazing view of the Spanish coastlines white sandy beaches you follow a balcony trail, then descend to the charming beach of Colera. Then it’s an easy walk under pine trees and past little sandy coves. Town: Llanca; Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities.
Family-run 2* hotel, the friendliest place in all of Catalonia! Great port-side restaurant. Room en-suite. A/C.
Day 5 – St Pere de Rhode
12km, 5h, +570m / -570m. Today is a fantastic walk up to the Monastery of “St Pere de Rh ... .. read more >
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Luggage Transfer: Yes
12km, 5h, +570m / -570m. Today is a fantastic walk up to the Monastery of “St Pere de Rhode” which is dominated by San Salvador peak (670m). Descend along the scenic ridge of Serrat de la Gerra before spending tonight in the peaceful Port de la Selva. Please Note: It is also possible to shorten your day by walking along the coast [2h] Town: Internet, ATM, shop, all facilities.
Excellent 3* hotel in the heart of the town, close to the beach. Room en-suite. A/C.
Day 6 – Cap Creus
22km , 6h30, +210m / -210m.Today you walk through rugged maquis scrubland in the “Cap Cr ... .. read more >
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Luggage Transfer: Yes
22km , 6h30, +210m / -210m.Today you walk through rugged maquis scrubland in the “Cap Creus Natural Park”. In Port Lligat, en-route, you will pass close to the house of Spanish artist Dali and finish up in the lovely fishing village of Cadaques, the most pleasant place to stay along the Northern Costa Brava. Please Note: It is possible for you to shorten your day by taking a taxi from Cap Creus directly to Cadaques [16km, 5h45, around €20 – not included] Town: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities.
Modern & comfortable 3* hotel with outdoor pool, large garden and tennis court. Located in heart of the town, close to the beach. Rooms en-suite.
Day 7 – Cadaques. End of the adventure
After breakfast we bid you farewell but why not visit the beautiful bay of Cadaques or the ... .. read more >
Meals: Breakfast Luggage Transfer: No
After breakfast we bid you farewell but why not visit the beautiful bay of Cadaques or the Dali Museum in Figueres before going back to the airport, you will have plenty of time.
Prices & Booking
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There is no intermediaries when booking with us, so feel free to contact us for advice, customisation or if you wish to combine several sections together. If you just wish to make a quick payment, submit your credit card and reference on our booking page. |
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Classic |
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Note:
Options: We can upgrade your holiday in 4, 5* and Paradors. We can also offer extra nights and airport transfers. Ask us!
Families: We are now offering 40% off prices for children aged between 3-9 years old, and 20% off prices for children aged between 10-17 years old. Children under 3 come free.
| Price (€) | Single room (€) | Solo Departure (€) (including single room) | Additional nights in Cadaques or anywhere en route | Picnic | |
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789 |
1009 |
220 |
Single room (€) |
Double room (€ pps) |
50 |
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90 |
70 |
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Currency Converter by OANDA |
General details
Difficulty: 1 2 3 4 5 What is this?
Distance: 74 kms
Duration: 6 Nights
Activity: 
Walking
Comfort: In Style
Meals: Half Board
Available: September to June
Price: From €789
10 reasons to book with us
Smartphones & Tablets
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(1,2) Leisurely (3,4) Stimulating (5) A Challenge
Our holidays are graded by 3 categories of difficulty: Leisurely, Stimulating and A Challenge. This grading system will allow you to select the ideal holiday for yourself or your group. We aim to offer you the best experiences and unforgettable memories on a holiday where your desire for a challenge, comfort and safety are our priority. As the abilities of everybody are different, it’s important that you decide on a holiday which best suits your own needs and capabilities. You should take some time to look over our grading system so you can decide which holiday is best for you!
How do we grade?
When grading our holidays we take 3 main factors into consideration: Distance, Gradient and Trail Type (i.e. mountain track, forest road, surfaced road, etc.)
Our Easy walking and cycling holidays are best for families with young children. With older children, experience and fitness level should be considered when deciding on a holiday.
Leisurely(1,2)
• Time: Under 5 hours per day on average.
• Gradient: Gentle, no steep climbs
• Trail Type: Walking path, easily accessible
• Suitable for: Everybody. Some easy preparation walks should increase your enjoyment.
Stimulating(3,4)
• Time: 5 to 7 hours / less than 20km per day on average
• Gradient: Up to 1000m ascent per day on average, possibility of some steep climbing
• Trail Type: Walking paths, mountain trails, not technically difficult
• Suitable for: Moderate level of fitness required. Some weekend walks of around 3-4 hours should help your preparation.
A Challenge (5)
• Time: Days can be over 7 hours / 20km
• Gradient: Days can be more than 1000m, some steep climbing
• Trail Type: Walking paths, mountain trails, can be technically difficult
• Suitable for: Good level of fitness required. Previous experience would be best. Regular weekend walks of 4-5 hours or more are advisable in the months leading up to your holiday. These should include some mountain walks.
1 – Fly with Ryanair to Carcassonne (flights arrive at 09.50) and then get a SNCF train at 17.37, arriving in Collioure at 19.30 (check www.sncf.fr for earlier trains, or alternatively visit Carcassonne for a few hours).
1 – Fly with Ryanair to Marseille (flight arrives 12pm) and then get an SNCF train 15.00, arriving in Collioure at 19.42 (change in Nimes).
2 - Fly with Ryanair to Barcelona/Girona [Spain]. From Girona, the train takes 3hours.
3 - BA fly London to Perpignan, France. From there, the train takes 1hour.
2 – To Girona Airport
- Take a bus to Figueres [1h] leaving from the bus station [7 departures a day from 7.25 to 19.25]. See: www.sarfa.com
- From Figueres, take a direct bus to Girona airport [1h] leaving from the bus station [7am, 12pm and 7am] See: www.sarfa.com
3 – To Perpignan.
Get a direct train
[2h30]. See: www.sncf.com
Included:
- 6 nights in 3* hotels or equivalent standard
- Half board basis (Breakfast & Dinner), except 1st and last nights
- Luggage transfer
- Step-by-Step walking notes (roadbook)
- Detailed hiking map
- Local Assistance
Not included: Flights, Insurance, Drinks, Transfers from/to the airport.
