The Gorges de la Carança, a vertiginous paradise in the Pyrénées-Orientales

If you're a fan of perilous and unusual hikes, thrills and unique natural sites, take note! The Carança gorges await you in the heart of the Conflent region in the Pyrénées-Orientales, between Perpignan and Andorra, near the Pic du Canigou. Steep walls, the void beneath our feet. It's not impossible that during a hike, visitors will experience a thrill. But this feeling is galvanising and adds spice to this unique experience.

The walk starts in Thuès-entre-Vallées, a small village surrounded by the Catalan Pyrenees, where a well-marked and safe path leads around the gorges.

This hike is accessible to everyone, even children, who will love crossing the suspension bridges and footbridges.

Whether you're a budding hiker or a trail enthusiast, there are routes to suit everyone. From a 5-hour hike to a 15-hour walk over several days... anything is possible in the Carança gorges!

Here are 3 of them:

• to the stone bridge (duration: 5 hours)
• to the Carança refuge (duration: 8 hours return)
• to Lac de la Carança via the refuge (duration: 15 hours return) (2 days recommended)

The Corniche path is the most impressive and also the most popular. Carved into the cliff, this path is breathtaking, and rest assured, it is secured by a handrail. If you're not afraid of heights, take a look at the precipice, otherwise stick close to the rock faces of the cliff. Thrills guaranteed!

In summer it's very busy, so it's advisable to do this hike out of season to avoid queuing at the footbridges. The walk is not practicable if it is raining, or in winter if it is snowing.

Good shoes and a bottle of water are a must! You can also pack a picnic lunch by the water.

👉 There are several ways for adventurers to get to the Carança gorges:

• via the yellow train from Villefranche-de-Conflent, for example, and get off at Thuès Carança

• by car, simply follow the RN116 towards Andorra after Villefranche-de-Conflent