Background

Gorges de Galamus: A Natural Masterpiece

Discover the Gorges de Galamus: Where dramatic cliffs meet ancient history in the heart of the French Pyrénées, a natural wonder carved by the Agly River.

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The Gorges de Galamus is a stunning canyon carved by the Agly River, marking the border between the Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales departments in France. This natural attraction features dramatic cliffs, a road carved into the rock face, and the historic Hermitage of Saint-Antoine-de-Galamus, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

A brief summary to Gorge De Galamus

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • During the summer months (July and August), traffic through the gorge is regulated with alternating one-way traffic, typically from 1 PM to 7 PM. Consider visiting outside these hours or using the electric shuttle.
  • Parking is limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or use the designated parking areas outside the gorge and take the shuttle or walk.
  • Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike to the Hermitage of Saint-Antoine-de-Galamus. The trail can be steep and slippery.
  • Bring water, especially if hiking, as the area can get hot, particularly in the summer months.
  • Consider canyoning for a unique perspective of the gorge, but book with an accredited tour guide.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, follow the D7 road towards the Gorges de Galamus. The road is well-signposted. Be aware that the road through the gorge is narrow and may have alternating traffic during peak season. Parking is available at several locations before and after the narrowest section of the gorge. Parking costs around €5. During the summer, a free shuttle bus operates from the main car park to the gorge.

  • Public Transport

    From Perpignan, take the bus line 500 towards Quillan. This bus stops in Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet. From there, you can either walk (approximately 4 km) or take a taxi to the Gorges de Galamus. A taxi from Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet to the gorge will cost approximately €20-€25. The bus ticket costs €1.

  • Walking

    From the center of Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, there is a 4km walking trail to the Gorges de Galamus. The trail follows the main road for about 1.5km before switching onto a secondary path called “La Campariere”. At the end of this path, you will climb up through a small trail to the main road and the main car park. From the parking area, it is a short walk to the Hermitage.

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Discover more about Gorge De Galamus

The Gorges de Galamus is a breathtaking canyon sculpted over millions of years by the Agly River, which separates the Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales departments. Located near Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, this natural wonder attracts visitors with its towering limestone cliffs and unique history. The site has been inhabited since ancient times, with hermits seeking refuge in the natural caves as early as the 7th century. In the 15th century, the Friars Minor of Saint Francis of Assisi established a cave-chapel, which evolved into the Hermitage of Saint-Antoine-de-Galamus. The hermitage, clinging to the cliffside, offers a stunning view and is accessible on foot. The current chapel was built in 1782 as thanks for the end of a typhus epidemic. In the late 19th century, a road was carved into the rock face to connect the villages of Cubières and Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet. This engineering feat allows visitors to drive through the gorge, though the narrow passage often requires traffic management. Today, visitors can explore the gorge by car, on foot, or by participating in canyoning activities. The area is also home to diverse flora and fauna, with protected species such as the Royal Eagle and the Great Horned Owl.

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