Nature activities in Vallespir: between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean

Located in the heart of the Pyrénées-Orientales, Vallespir is a preserved natural destination that appeals to travelers seeking peace, authenticity and high-end experiences. Between mountains, forests, rivers and lakes, it offers the perfect playground for lovers of hiking, cycling, paragliding and relaxation by the water.

Whether you are staying in a charming villa, a character-filled home or a premium accommodation, Vallespir makes it easy to combine comfort, exceptional landscapes and outdoor activities, just a short distance from the Mediterranean coast.

Top 5 must-do nature activities in Vallespir

🥾 Exceptional hiking & scenic walks

Vallespir offers more than 133 km of marked hiking trails and 17 official routes, suitable for all levels — from leisurely walkers to experienced hikers.

The trails wind through cork oak forests, Pyrenean ridges and lush valleys, rewarding hikers with stunning viewpoints across the region. Along the way, visitors discover a rich historical heritage: Romanesque chapels, old bridges, dolmens, ice houses and charming villages.

Ideal for a premium nature holiday, active family vacations or peaceful slow-travel escapes away from the crowds.

🌳 Tree-top adventure & outdoor parks

For a fun and sporty day outdoors, Vallespir features several adventure parks offering tree-top courses with suspended bridges, playful obstacles and zip lines.

These activities are perfect for disconnecting from daily life, enjoying quality time with family, and giving both children and adults a real dose of adrenaline in a safe natural environment.

🚴 Cycling, greenways & cycle touring

Vallespir is crossed by several cycling paths, greenways and cycle-touring routes, including direct connections to the Pirinexus cross-border loop.

This allows visitors to alternate between relaxed family rides through the valleys, more demanding routes for cycling enthusiasts, and full-day escapes into neighboring Catalonia.

An excellent option for those looking to explore the region at their own pace, while enjoying the comfort of returning to a high-end villa or holiday home after the ride.

🪂 Paragliding & thrill-seeking experiences

To discover Vallespir from a completely different perspective, paragliding offers an unforgettable experience: soaring above valleys, panoramic views over the Pyrenean peaks, and unique light between mountains and the Mediterranean.

A perfect activity for travelers seeking premium adventure experiences and memorable moments, ideally combined with a stay in comfortable, refined accommodation.

🌊 Lakes, rivers & relaxation by the water

The lakes and water areas of Vallespir, especially around Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts, are ideal for combining activity and relaxation: swimming, gentle water sports, paddleboarding, pedal boats, or simply enjoying a chic picnic by the water.

After an active day, it is the perfect setting to enjoy the peacefulness and the region’s mild climate, before returning to the comfort of a high-end accommodation.

Why Vallespir is an ideal destination for a premium stay

• Preserved natural surroundings with diverse landscapes: mountains, forests, vineyards, lakes and rivers.
• Pleasant climate year-round, combining Mediterranean influence with fresh mountain air.
• Activities for everyone: families, couples, friends, athletes or nature lovers.
• Ideal conditions for premium stays: charming villas, character homes and personalized services.
• Close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and Spain, adding gastronomy and cultural experiences to your stay.

Useful links to plan your nature stay in Vallespir

• Official “Nature Activities” page – Vallespir Tourism Office
• Official Vallespir Tourism Office website
• Tourist Office – Céret branch (maps, information & local advice)

For a premium nature stay in Vallespir, the ideal approach is to combine hiking, cycling, one thrilling outdoor activity and moments of relaxation by the water — all while staying in comfortable, refined accommodation.