Explore the Gorges de Galamus on foot through the gorge; it is also possible to visit by land or on the water. This classified and protected natural area lies near Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet. Cultural stops add to the natural setting: the Chapitre, the Ermitage Saint-Antoine de Galamus and the Clue de la Fou, each with its own history.

Gorge, Véloroute and activities

The Véloroute V81 runs alongside the canyon between Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet and Cubières, offering a way to visit the Gorges de Galamus. Canyoning involves crossing a horizontal gorge without using ropes. It includes slides, while jumps are optional. The activity is available seasonally from April to September and takes place under professional supervision. In 2026, Oxygen Aventure, based in Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, offers trips led by state-certified guides for canyoning, caving and via ferrata, as well as white-water sports, including in the Gorges de Galamus.

The Gorges lie entirely within the “Basses Corbières” Natura 2000 site, in part because of the bird species of European importance found there. Alongside the different ways to explore the area, its natural values also shape its character.

Chapitre, Ermitage and Clue de la Fou

The Chapitre in Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet is classified as a historic monument. It developed from a Benedictine abbey in the 10th century and became a collegiate church in the 14th century. The Musée du Chapitre is housed in the former buildings of the collegiate church. Its themes include folk traditions, archaeology and mineral collections. It also features a recreated scene of everyday life in the 19th century and a collection of old craft tools.

In the 15th century, Franciscans built a cave chapel, from which the Ermitage Saint-Antoine de Galamus developed. The Ermitage is a pilgrimage site, particularly associated with Easter Monday for the Occitans and Whit Monday for the south of Occitania and Catalonia.

South of Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, the Clue de la Fou cuts through the Lesquerde range. A Roman bridge spans the river there. Erosion-created hollows are locally known as “marmites de géants” (giants’ cauldrons).

Getting there and seasonal planning

From Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, follow the signs to the Gorges de Galamus and drive five kilometres to the car park. The seasonal liO bus route 506 connects Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, the Gorges de Galamus and Cubières-sur-Cinoble. It runs only in July and August; a ticket costs €2. If you plan to take the bus, check the current seasonal timetable before you leave.

The Ermitage Saint-Antoine de Galamus can be reached via a path from the viewpoint car park or by stairs. The stated opening period is 15 March to 15 November; before your visit, check whether this seasonal information is still current.

For the broader travel guide: Pyrénées-Orientales.