Around Estavar, shorter and longer routes can be combined with specific cultural points of interest: from an easy stroll and a historic trail towards Llívia to a longer circular hike starting in Bajande. Churches, chapels and the route of a historic road offer further reference points when planning your trip.

Walking trails with different profiles

The Discovery of the Springs is an easy 1.5-kilometre walking trail that starts at Estavar Church. If you are looking for a short route with a stated difficulty level, this trail offers a clearly defined starting point for your planning.

The Sentier historique starts at Église Sant Julien d’Estavar. It crosses the Estagouge stream, which serves as a boundary, and then heads towards Llívia. Around Estavar, the trail also leads to a 380° panoramic view from the summit of Llívia Hill, as well as to the ruins and excavations of Château de Llívia. Check the signs, access and trail conditions on site.

PR 79 – L’Hippopotame is a longer option: this moderately difficult circular hiking trail is 9.0 kilometres long, takes about three hours and 30 minutes, and starts at Bajande Station. At the beginning, it follows the Estavar irrigation canal; it also leads to a 360° panorama over the whole of Cerdagne. It is advisable to check local trail conditions before setting out.

Churches, chapels and historical links

Église Saint-Julien d’Estavar dates from the 11th century. Visits are arranged through the Estavar town hall, so check how to organise your visit in advance. The church is also a specific reference point for the trails: both the Discovery of the Springs and the Sentier historique start there.

Chapelle Saint-Barthélemy de Bajande also dates from the 11th century and lies along the continuation of the Way of St James. The Chapelle St Barthélemy in Bajande also houses two 16th-century collection plates.

The Roman road “Strata Ceretana” adds another historical dimension. It ran through the Estavar area, linking Llívia with the hamlet of Caillastres in the direction of Eyne and the Têt Valley. This connection offers a different perspective from following today’s trail markers: the focus here is on the road’s former route through the area.

Estavar is located in the Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Catalanes. Honey from Cerdagne can be purchased in Caillastres; if you plan to buy some, check availability on site.

Plan a stay to suit you

There are several ways to plan your stay: choose an easy stroll, the Sentier historique towards Llívia, or the moderately difficult PR 79 circular hike, with its approximate duration and panorama over Cerdagne. The church, chapel and Roman road each offer a different focus too.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Estève, Finestret, Torreilles-Plage, Sorède, Cerbère, Clara, Espira-de-Conflent, Estagel.

Go to the main travel overview: Pyrénées-Orientales.