• Mediterranean Pyrenees
  • At the gates of Catalonia In the heart of the Eastern Pyrenees
  • A wild and preserved nature
  • The Côte Vermeille Beaches and coves The Albères Mountain The Illibéris Plain
  • Unmissable villages
  • An accessible destination
  • Go down in history
  • Military heritage The Paths of the Retirada Top 5 to visit in Illibéris Top 10 to visit in the Albères Top 10 in Côte Vermeille
  • Guided tours
  • Discover the know-how
  • The coastal path Rando Rallies All hikes
  • The EV8 - The Mediterranean by bike All bike routes
  • Entertainment
  • Restaurants
  • Local products
  • Local drinks Gourmet entertainment All local products
  • Local markets
  • The recipes
  • Bed and breakfast
  • Holiday rentals
  • Motorhomes area
  • Large capacity accommodations

Home Go out Hiking All hikes The Madeloc Tower

La Tour Madeloc

Discover the Tour de Madeloc which was part of the network of signal towers in the Pyrenees. Exceptional view throughout the hike.

Provide good hydration, walking shoes, a cap or a hat. This hike is not recommended in case of strong tramuntana.

From the Col de la Serre, head towards the Batterie de Taillefer then towards the Col de Taillefer. After the pass, continue towards the Tour Madeloc. Go back down to the Battery of 500. Take the path that joins the GR10 (white and red markings) Follow the GR 10 to the right, past the ruins of the old Cave Reig. Pass the Col de Formigo in the direction of the Col de la Vallauria. At the Col de la Vallauria, turn right and take the water path (yellow markings) to the Col de la Serre, starting point.

Did you find this content useful?

  • This content was useful to you
  • This content was not useful to you

Thank you for taking the time to let us know that this content was helpful to you. Your encouragement is essential to us, and your feedback allows us to improve.

Thank you for taking the time to let us know that this content was not helpful to you. We're sorry about that.

Share this content

  • Share on ...
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share by email
  • Route planner

Tour Madeloc

Hiking Highlight

Recommended by 111 out of 112 hikers

Location: Collioure , Céret , Occitania , France

The Madeloc tower is one of the places you shouldn't miss when you're in the area. Spectacular view.

July 3, 2021

The Tour de Madeloc or Tour Madeloc is a medieval watchtower in the hinterland of the Côte Vermeille in the Pyrénées-Orientales in the ancient cultural landscape of Roussillon. contents The Tour Madeloc is located on a 670 m high mountain peak in the hinterland of Banyuls-sur-Mer; From here you have a clear view of much of the coastline of the Gulf of Lion to Narbonne. Only about four kilometers further northwest is another watchtower from the same period - the Tour de la Massane. The tower was built in the late 13th century by the Majorcan King Jaume II as a watchtower and to secure the coast. With the Pyrenees peace of the year 1659 he lost any strategic importance. Already in the first half of the 20th century it was used as the location of a radio relay station. architecture The round tower, which is built of only a few hewn quarry stones, is windowless; The staircases and rooms in its interior are illuminated only by loopholike slits. Its upper edge is surrounded by numerous projecting consoles, which formerly carried a wooden battlements. Source de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tour_de_Madeloc put together: a great hiking destination

May 22, 2018

a beautiful place with views of the flat region and the predominantly flat coastal region in the north of the Tour de Madaloc

Here is a hiking trail down to Collioure

May 29, 2018

Use the sun in the morning, unforgettable! 👍☀️

July 29, 2020

From here beautiful city trip to Collioure possible (worthwhile weekly market on Wed, Sat.).

February 12, 2019

The round tower, which is built of only a few hewn quarry stones, is windowless; the staircases and rooms in its interior are illuminated only by loopholike slits. Its upper edge is surrounded by numerous projecting consoles, which formerly carried a wooden battlements. Opposite is a rather bizarre rock dummy - probably of military origin.

From here you can look far towards the Côte d'Azur

June 12, 2019

The Tour de Madeloc (Tour Madeloc / at 670 m altitude) is a medieval watchtower (late 13th century) in the hinterland of the Côte Vermeille / Pyrénées-Orientales.

July 5, 2019

Highest point of the hike

September 16, 2019

This peak, included in the list of 100 peaks of the F.E.E.C., is a perfect vantage point to contemplate Roselló, the towns of Collliure, Potvendre and Banyuls, from a bird's eye view; the Torre de la Maçana, its cousin and the Pic de Sallafort, gateway to Albera. Most striking is the access door to the underground storage facility that looks like it's taken from a B-movie set.

July 10, 2022

Wonderful trip. Spicy bits

August 16, 2022

Nice point of view

July 19, 2023

Beautiful views of the coast

July 10, 2021

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

  • Take Me There
  • Suggest an Edit

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Banyuls - Madeloc

Sentier littoral du Racou aux criques de Porteils

Ascension de la Tour Madeloc depuis le Refuge Madeloc

Point de vue sur Banyuls-sur-Mer

Batterie de la Galline

Point de départ du tour en montagne

Vue de Sorède et Madeloc

Coll de Banyuls

Pic de Sallfort

Col de Perdiguer

  • Route Finder
  • Route Planner
  • Travel Guide
  • Places to visit
  • Eat & drink
  • Accommodation
  • Ski resorts
  • Current Conditions
  • Avalanche Report
  • Collections
  • Travel Stories
  • Publications

Tour de Madeloc

Logo Outdooractive Premium

This tour takes us on a journey back to the 17th century and even further. On the just under 9 km impresses not only the magnificent landscape and the breathtaking view of the Vermaille coast with the vastness of the Mediterranean Sea, but also the walls of historical ruins and fortresses. The highlight is the medieval watchtower Tour de Madeloc 10 km north of the Spanish border.

Localization

We are a team of dedicated athletes, nature lovers and photographers. The outdoors is both our passion and our element and as a Pro+ user, we're inviting you to join us along the way. This channel aims to share our personal recommendations with you alongside everything you need to know about our trips.

Outdooractive's Premium Routes provide you with our highest quality content: accurate tracks, reliable descriptions and captivating imagery. All Premium Routes can be saved offline and their tracks downloaded.

Profile picture of Hartmut Wimmer

Questions and answers

Would you like to ask the author a question?

Help others by being the first to add a review

Profile picture

Photos from others

Excursions and leisure tips for the region.

tour de madeloc over

Life in the Pyrénées-Orientales

Walk: tour de madeloc & military installations.

WALK THE REGION WITH TED AND KATE HISCOCK

Tour de Madeloc & Military Installations

  (21.5km [13.5 miles]) 6 hours

This walk crystallises the reasons why we love this region and is the crowning glory to the walks around Port Vendres.

It is the longest, possibly the most challenging of the ones we have done, and offers some of the most sensational views over the region. The going at times is tough and rugged but the rewards well worth the extra effort.

It embraces a walk to Cosprons then up to the Fortress Galline, on to Batterie 500 and to the crown of Tour de Madeloc at 656m, continuing to Batterie Taillefer and then sharply down to tarmac roads for a short while, then sharply back to rugged rocky terrain past Fort Dugommier & Fort St Elme before dropping back to Port Vendres.

Walk: Port Vendres, Tour de Madeloc & the Military Installations

If it is wet, very windy, low cloud or a hint that the weather is going to change for the worse, do not do the part of this walk between Tour de Madeloc and Batterie de Taillefer as this part of the walk is dangerous in these conditions. Another precaution is to bear in mind that the walk is about 6 hours long, (including stops totalling about 1 hour), no shops, toilets and therefore adequate water & food supplies are essentia l .

Starting from the Place de l’Obélisque , drop down to the port, along rue Pierre Forgas past all the shops and restaurants, turn left along the back of the marina (Quai Francis Joly) and by the Douane (Customs House) proceed up the steps to the main road into Port Vendres (route de Banyuls).

Walk: Port Vendres, Tour de Madeloc & the Military Installations

Continue to the junction by the Hotel Les Jardins du Cedre and turn right down the hill for about 100m, crossing to the other side, [WATCH THE TRAFFIC ON THIS BUSY ROAD] where you will find a ditch behind the retaining wall for the road. Take the simple rough path down into this ditch, which instantly rises up a rocky face by about 2 to 3 metres.

An obvious rocky footpath rises then up through the wild thicket; passing the modern housing estate high on the right and continues steeply until the narrow D86a road is reached. Turn right onto the road and continue a gentle climb for about 1km, when a sharp bend to the right (a clearing and some tanks on the left) signals the point to leave the tarmac and head left along a bridleway.

The track gently descends to the right between old vineyards with dry-stone retaining walls and as it turns sharply to the right, continue straight ahead, ignoring the one it crosses and descend into a small valley. As it veers to the left, it runs parallel to a track (lower on the left) which opens to more tracks by a small garden.

Continue straight ahead, descending past a holiday home on the left where the path steadily drops between vines to a point just before the bridleway veers sharply to the right. You will see a narrow ditch path falls away to the left, partially obscured by long grass and very little to mark its track. Head down to this path, keeping the Cosprons water tower in front.

Walk: Port Vendres, Tour de Madeloc & the Military Installations

Cross the lane, keeping slightly to the right, where immediately the narrow path continues down to a small brook in a ditch and up again passing the water tower and emerging in the hamlet of Cosprons where the chapel of yellow orange stone and low single belfry brings immediate charm to this prosperous but sleepy little community.

As the Route de la Chapelle joins the D86a running through the village, turn right and down the hill to the outskirts of Cosprons.

At this point the mountains tower above and with no effort at all, it is possible to see 5 of our seven military installations at once: la Batterie 500, Tour de Madeloc, les Casurnes du Centre, la Batterie de Taillefer and in the eminent central position and closest is  La Batterie de la Galline.

Take the right fork in the road, (also signed to the Vinaigrerie de Guineille), which runs parallel to a verdant  V shaped valley with ancient gnarled vines (‘vielles vignes’) falling like something from Lord of the Rings on to the road; follow it to a bend which at this point crosses the charming brook Cosprons.

Cosprons from the road to Guinelle

Immediately take the right fork (DO NOT FOLLOW TO THE VINAIGRERIE) and start climbing the narrow cork-oak wooded slope. Although this is still a road for traffic, it is very quiet and only travelled by local residents and vignerons.

With Mother Nature, proudly showing off her colours all around, the road steadily climbs to the seemingly forgotten and charming hamlet of La Guineille at 100m.

Beyond this collection of houses and their well-kept gardens, the metalled surface stops and a dirt track continues. It is rugged but not difficult and the gradient is not severe, as lavender and wild sweet pea predominate this open slope.

Walk: Port Vendres, Tour de Madeloc & the Military Installations

La Galline is ever dominant on this climb and towards the top at each hairpin bend, the question is inevitably asked; “Is it not around this next corner?” The views from this track are magnificent as far as the coast out to Cap Béar with its lighthouse; the three beaches at Paulilles and Cap d’Ullastrell are all clearly visible.

tour de madeloc over

To the South-East Banyuls-sur-Mer comes into view with the Laboratoire Arago , (Paris University Marine Biology department’s large aquarium) is clearly visible at the far end of the promenade. The mountainside here is deeply hewn by steep ravines; they are raging torrents in winter but double as dried ditches and walking tracks during the arid summer months. This is particularly true of the valley of the Callels, which joins the Cosprons at the village by the same name.

La Batterie de la Galline

Batterie de la Galline along with Batteries 500 and Taillefer seem a paradox of construction. On the  gateposts of Galline’s very impressive drawbridge entry is displayed  ‘built between 1885-6’ and one understands it was based on earlier plans of 1846 –  but why?

Was it a training ground for French sappers during a boring piece of peacetime, or was there another purpose? No, it was as a lesson learned from the 1870 Franco-Prussian War, when the Spanish opportunistically invaded the Cote Vermeille whilst attention turned on the conflict in the North. Their walls never saw conflict and they have gradually slipped into decline and dereliction.

tour de madeloc over

The climb from Galline to the D86 ‘route de Crete’ is really very gentle, and the surface of this important access track for vignerons is in good condition, (if not with tarmac). When the D86 is reached on a sharp corner, turn right but now start being aware that cars do travel along this narrow strip of tarmac and frequently in the summer months, drivers are tourists admiring the views and not particularly concentrating on the possibility of meeting walkers on hairpin bends.

After about 1km a junction appears where a narrow road ascends to the left with road signs for ‘No Entry’ whilst the D86 continues winding around the hillside towards the ruined Les Casernes (barracks). The ‘No Entry’ applies only to vehicles and it is up this track for another 1.5km that our path takes us.

This is the point where the real climb commences and although tarmac, no cars will annoy the walker. The first corner reveals Batterie 500 dating once more from 1885/6, but the climb establishes true panoramic views across the whole coast and inland.

It is not difficult to see why military engineers across many centuries have used this stupendous countryside for deployment of troops and constructed fortresses and beacons, nor is the importance of these mountains diminished as a natural defence to protect the very vulnerable plain of Roussillon.

Batterie, Port Vendres

Tour de Madeloc stands at 656m (in English terms about 2000 ft) and is perched on a sharp ridge of schistous rock that falls dramatically on two sides. In the days when cars were permitted to ascend to a pathetically inadequate car park near the summit and accessed by an alarmingly narrow and tortuous single track, passing could be a nerve-racking experience. The tower is used as a transmitter and there is little else apart from breath-taking views and the splendour of unimpeded wild life. The wealth of butterflies and birds at this extreme height tells of the richness of the surroundings.

To descend is an option of three ways….. 1. By continuing beyond, where yellow flashes on the walls indicate the track continuing to Batterie de Taillefer. 2. Retracing exactly the footsteps that brought us up, 3. Retracing the last 1.5km to the D86, turning left and following the vehicular road along the 2km to the crossroads of Col de Mollo, where option 1 ends up. In terms of distance there is little in any of them. The whole walk is between 20 and 21.5km. For the benefit of this description, the route taken is option 1 but in dubious weather conditions, please do take one of the other options.

watchtower

The first part of the path down from Tour de Madeloc crosses to another transmitter station and then beyond. It is far safer than it may seem at first glance, as it makes rapid and regular twists and turns over shale and rocks. One is tempted to think that it is impossible for a route to exist but it does! There are no handrails (this is France) but sensible behaviour makes this a magnificent experience as the track descends quite swiftly and straightens out pointing towards the next military installation; Batterie de Taillefer at 508m (1500ft).

Just before Taillefer is reached, there seems to be a crossroads of paths and confusing signs. A track comes in from the left – IGNORE and then a bridleway comes up from the right – IGNORE also.

In front, there are two bridleways: one that descends to the right in front whilst the other one hugs the rock at the base of Batterie Taillefer. This latter one is the correct route, however if tiredness is approaching it could be prudent to follow the bridleway as indicated by the signs as this will ultimately drop down more directly on to the D86 with a right turn being only about 0.5km from Col de Mollo.

The stoical will continue on the correct route climbing gently towards the gates of the occupied Batterie Taillefer but on the last corner of the track turning sharply to the left, a yellow flash on a rock indicates this is the way of descent. It is here that the journey becomes slow and care taken as the path in places consists of loose rocks underfoot dropping quite steeply down over what feels like broken teeth to join the D86 where a sharp right turn is taken.

tour de madeloc over

Follow the D86 for about 2km to reach Col de Mollo, which is a junction with four possibilities to take. Follow the sign for Port Vendres, i.e. proceed directly in front for about 1km. As the road opens out into a clearing and sits over a saddle on the hill edge with views to the right to Tour de Madeloc and down to Port Vendres to the left, take a sharp left turn on to a rocky track that climbs up and round to the right, (past a dozen beehives, on the right).

Quite soon, a bifurcation appears in the track, take the right and lower one, which winds around the hillside, initially with a modest ascent but then drops steadily past the shrine to a dead fire fighter who was killed in the line of duty fighting forest fires.    Eventually this rocky track joins another simple crossroads of possibilities. Ignore the bridleway that falls sharply away to the right to Mackintosh’s ‘Enchanted Valley’ but take the left tarmac option road, passing Fort Dugommier, Fort St Elme and descend into the higher reaches of Port Vendres.

tour de madeloc over

As the road reaches habitation, keep to the tarmac as it winds around the hillside, and keep the initial houses and gardens on your left until after the straight downhill run passes in front of some duplex properties. At this point a narrow rugged concrete track descends at right angles by a wall on the left after the gardens; follow this down and join the more normal steps in front down to the street and once again continue straight.

Port Vendres

Eventually, take one of the set of steps on the right down to the port, turn left and back along the final path to the Place de l’Obelisque .

SEE ALSO……

ALL ALONG THE WATCHTOWER . Find out about other watchtowers in the region.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Don't subscribe All Replies to my comments Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

It’s absolutely free. Sign up, sit back and just wait for it to plop into your inbox every week with all the latest events and adventures in the Pyrénées-Orientales.

I've read and accept your Privacy statement .

You have successfully joined our Newsletter.

.

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies
  • 3rd Party Cookies
  • Cookie Policy

YOUR PRIVACY IS IMPORTANT TO US.

P-O Life respects the rights of all site users and will never, in any circumstances, pass on information supplied without permission. Any information submitted will be used only in a way authorised by you.

We do not share information collected with any other organisations, private or commercial.

We use information submitted by you to improve the content of the site and notify site visitors of any relevant updates.

Registration is not required to browse this site therefore users are not obliged to provide any personal details unless they wish to do so.

This site contains links to other sites. This privacy statement refers only to P-O Life website. and we cannot be held responsible for the conduct, regarding privacy, of companies and businesses on this site..

A cookie is a small piece of data sent from us to you and stored in your web browser while you are browsing this website. When you visit us again, this information can help us to help you.

For example, cookies can store your login details so you don’t have to type them in each time you wish to be active on the site.

Please checkout more cookie settings related to our advertisers at the bottom right of this website, a blue button labeled as "Privacy".

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

We and our partners store or access information on devices, such as cookies and process personal data, such as unique identifiers and standard information sent by a device for the purposes described below. You may click to consent to our and our partners’ processing for such purposes. Alternatively, you may click to refuse to consent, or access more detailed information and change your preferences before consenting. Your preferences will apply to this website only. Please note that some processing of your personal data may not require your consent, but you have a right to object to such processing. You can change your preferences at any time by returning to this site or visit our privacy policy.

Please, checkout more third party cookie settings related to your privacy at the bottom right of the website, button labeled as "Privacy"

Tour Madeloc

tour de madeloc over

Top ways to experience Tour Madeloc and nearby attractions

tour de madeloc over

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Ken O

Also popular with travelers

tour de madeloc over

Tour Madeloc - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

  • (2.65 mi) Madeloc Hotel
  • (2.51 mi) Hôtel Restaurant La Frégate Collioure
  • (3.05 mi) Hôtel & Spa Les Mouettes
  • (2.48 mi) Hotel la Casa Pairal
  • (2.45 mi) Relais des Trois Mas et Restaurant La Balette
  • (2.43 mi) Restaurant Le Neptune
  • (2.38 mi) Côté Faubourg
  • (2.57 mi) La Bodeguita
  • (2.59 mi) Le 5eme Pechè
  • (2.60 mi) Paco

Cover picture © Credits to Christian Stascheit

Planning a trip? Build a personalized plan with Maya - your AI travel assistant by Live the World

Sunset hike in the Pyrenees - Tour de Madeloc

Christian Stascheit

Christian Stascheit

Travel tips for port-vendres.

tour de madeloc over

The Tour de Madeloc is a medieval watchtower on a 670 meters high summit in the hinterland of Banyuls-Sur-Mer . It is a two hours’ drive from Cadaqués, and it takes you almost three from Barcelona . Sure if you are in Barcelona, there are already many things to see and do, but if you are looking for a great contrasting outdoor activity and want to do a hike in the Pyrenees , it is definitely worth going to discover the borderland of France to Spain . French Catalonia, especially on the mountain slopes of the Pyrenees, is beautifully filled with green forests and wine cultivation . The hiking route to the Tour de Madeloc offers fantastic panoramic views fr om above on the sea and mountain biking in the area is also possible. To make it even better, time your hike to arrive during sunset – it will be less hot, and the colors of the horizon will take your breath away. Afterward, you probably want to stay overnight. There are a lot of camping sides in the area, especially in Argelés-Sur-Mer or stay overnight in the beautiful village of Collioure .  

Jump out of the car onto the route

Arriving at the parking area, the following view will already reward you. On the left, you can see the bay of Argelés-Sur-Mer and on the right the village of Collioure . Take a deep breath in, enjoy the view over the area below you and then start your hike. You will need your breath climbing up, but the views will only get better.

Picture © Credits to Christian Stascheit

The non-circular route to the watchtower of Madeloc isn’t very long, in total 4 kilometers, but it is at some points very steep. Just in case take a flashlight with you, because although going the 4 kilometers down again is less physically challenging, you have to be focused on the path and to see well is an advantage in doing so.

Picture © Credits to Christian Stascheit

With the setting sun the colors of nature along the way show their beauty and diversity.

Picture © Credits to Christian Stascheit

The Tour de Madeloc is well signposted on the D86 either if you are coming from Banyuls-Sur Mer or Argelés-Sur Mer . We were coming from the north and parked at the following place.

Parking spot Tour de Madeloc

Parking spot Tour de Madeloc

On the route to the madeloc watchtower.

As I said the route isn’t very long and probably it’s the best opportunity to climb up a summit of the Pyrenees with reasonable physical effort. At the same time, great views and the fact on one’s side that you actually climbed a peak of the Pyrenees, is no doubt rewarding . But if you are up for even more, there are longer routes, including the Madeloc watchtower , which are signposted along the way. On the path, for instance, you can spot further in the north-west another lookout from the same medieval period – the Tour de Massane . You can see it as a tiny dot at the facing mountain range at the following picture.

Picture © Credits to Christian Stascheit

There is also a hike to the Massane watchtower if you can’t get enough. It is 4.2 kilometers long and goes in altitude 550 meters up.

Tour de Massane

Tour de Massane

At the madeloc watchtower.

Unfortunately, the Madeloc watchtower itself can’t be climbed, since it is closed - nowadays it is used as a radio relay station. However, the impression of the Madeloc and Massane watchtowers as guards of the valleys beneath makes the hike worth doing!

Picture © Credits to Christian Stascheit

Tour de Madeloc

Want to plan a trip here? Talk to AI travel assistant Maya.

Hi. My name is Chris, currently living in Valencia. I love to travel and take photos. My passion is to discover nature (through campfires and fishing), cities, culture and get to know the people living there.

Plan a trip with Maya - your AI travel assistant

tour de madeloc over

Stories you might also like

Coastal hike to a picturesque French village,  Collioure

Coastal hike to a picturesque French village, Collioure

Mt. Fuji, the world heritage holy mountain

Mt. Fuji, the world heritage holy mountain

Cadaqués: On the path of Salvador Dalí

Cadaqués: On the path of Salvador Dalí

The magnificent mountain Puig Campana

The magnificent mountain Puig Campana

Castellfollit de la Roca, a unique cliff village in Catalonia

Castellfollit de la Roca, a unique cliff village in Catalonia

Popular mountain peaks of Azerbaijan

Popular mountain peaks of Azerbaijan

Pals, the medieval village of Costa Brava

Pals, the medieval village of Costa Brava

Peru's Rainbow Mountain; a true gem in the Andes

Peru's Rainbow Mountain; a true gem in the Andes

Fine dining in "El Celler de Can Roca"

Fine dining in "El Celler de Can Roca"

Fansipan Mountain: Conquering Vietnam's Roof and the Legends That Surround It

Fansipan Mountain: Conquering Vietnam's Roof and the Legends That Surround It

Game of Thrones filming locations in Girona

Game of Thrones filming locations in Girona

Agritourism and Historical Villages in Cyprus: Omodos and Kalopanayiotis

Agritourism and Historical Villages in Cyprus: Omodos and Kalopanayiotis

Girona, the medieval gem of Catalonia

Girona, the medieval gem of Catalonia

Hiking the Balkans

Hiking the Balkans

Calella de Palafrugell, an ancient fishing village

Calella de Palafrugell, an ancient fishing village

Huaina Potosí, an endless white view above the clouds

Huaina Potosí, an endless white view above the clouds

Palamós, the heart of Costa Brava

Palamós, the heart of Costa Brava

Polish mountains: every kind under the sun

Polish mountains: every kind under the sun

Blanes, the door to Costa Brava

Blanes, the door to Costa Brava

Noah's Ark in the sacred mountain Kazygurt

Noah's Ark in the sacred mountain Kazygurt

Current Display: Tour de Madeloc

Tour de Madeloc

The Cycling Culture

The Cycling Culture

Tour Madeloc – Trip to Collioure

Tour Madeloc

Since I moved to Girona a lot of my friends told me about the Tour de Madeloc and the Collioure area, we planned rides there several times but we always had something else to do so it was a pending destination.

I was attracted for the area, good climb, beautiful views and plenty of vineyards that make a perfect picture for a cycling and wine lover.

tour de madeloc over

The area’s not so far so we head from Girona to spend a day there before our ride the SaCostaBrava gravel race . To be honest, we planned via Komoot two rides there, one heading north following all the coast, and the other to attempt the T our Madeloc . First one, it was cancelled due to a problem with the hotel owner, so we just did the last one planned, but I need to say, it was worth it.

tour de madeloc over

We start early on the morning for a secondary road leaving Collioure and crossing all the vinyards, before starting the road to climb Madeloc, we did climb the Coll de Mollo , short one bad with a steep hill on the middle, crossing all the valley until the top.

tour de madeloc over

The second part was easy and with amazing views all climb long on our left, looking at the vineyards and the coast at the bottom.

I couldn’t resist to stop and do some pictures, the image there was so perfect to stop, breathe and shoot.

tour de madeloc over

We arrived at the last two km heading to a really small road, and the climb changes it, tarmac in really bad conditions and the gradient start heading up, cycling there start beeing no a joke but the views in each corner….what a view! so incredible. Images talk for itself, so have a look!

tour de madeloc over

After climbing we did all the downhill via Port-Vendres and following the coast to ride back to Collioure , the sun was with us all day, so we enjoy a short but so beautiful ride.

tour de madeloc over

The Madeloc it is one of the most beautiful climbs I did, it’s true tarmac it’s a disaster and climbing with a road bike requires to be careful, but the mixing views of mountains and sea at the end makes this climb unforgettable. If you are planning to visit the area, don’t miss it! The view makes worthy the effort.

Komoot ride info

Collioure is a super cosy town on the coast surrounded by a lot of vineyards, a perfect stop to enjoy a nice local wine after ride.

Hotel: Casa Païral Restaurant/Wine: Le Jardin de Saint Sébastien

tour de madeloc over

Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86

Elevation profile Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86

Share this climb

Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86 is a climb in the region French Pyrenees . It is 9.5km long and bridges 605 vertical meters with an average gradient of 6.4%, resulting in a difficulty score of 540. The top of the ascent is located at 606 meters above sea level. Climbfinder users shared 4 reviews of this climb and uploaded 10 photos.

Road names: D86 & Tour de Madeloc

3.0 by Mickel This is an automatic translation, the original language is: Dutch. Climb from Collioure started. Beautiful route via narrow quiet road. Hardly any traffic. Very doable until the last few km. That is the real climb to the Madeloc. Very narrow, bad road surface with lots of gravel on the road and last 2 km really steep.... read more

Photos (10)

Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86

If you want to upload your photos, you need to create an account. It only takes 1 minute and it's completely free.

  • Add photos of your conquered climbs.
  • Share your experience on all ascents you've climbed
  • Submit your favorite climbs

Already have an account?

Classification

Road surface condition, climbing times.

Col du Tourmalet from Luz Saint Sauveur via Voie Laurent Fignon

Col du Tourmalet from Luz Saint Sauveur via Voie Laurent Fignon

Hautacam / Col de Tramassel

Hautacam / Col de Tramassel

Col du Tourmalet from Sainte-Marie de Campan

Col du Tourmalet from Sainte-Marie de Campan

Col d'Aubisque from Argelès Gazost via Col du Soulor

Col d'Aubisque from Argelès Gazost via Col du Soulor

Reviews (4)

Niels1987

For a change, I had decided to do the climb in the evening, with sunset when I reached the top. That was a good idea, not only because of the beautiful view, but also because it was 37 degrees during the day and below 30 in the evening and I could cycle in the shadow of the mountain. I first wanted to do the steepest variant from Collioure, between the vineyards, but during the descent on this road, I decided not to do it. This road was of very poor quality and very steep in parts. So we decided to do this one. I think the first part of the climb goes to Col de Serra, and then you descend a bit to the Col de Mollo to climb to the Madeloc. From here, it is also difficult, regularly as much as 9 percent. It surprised me how narrow the road is. The Col de Serra is in comparison easy. At about 1.5 km from the top, you go up the path to the tower. Here are prohibition signs, but maybe this is only for cars. The first part of the path is actually not so bad, only after the first right turn it becomes steep. This is also capricious, there are always very steep parts and then a small part to catch your breath. The hairpin bends that turn back are often just a bit flatter. Once at the top, you have an incredible view. Seems very cool to me if they would do a Vuelta arrival here, but even for that it is probably too limited in terms of finish space.

Voor de afwisseling had ik eens gekozen om de klim te doen in de avond, met zonsondergang als ik bij de top was. Dat was zeker een goed idee, niet alleen vanwege het mooie uitzicht, maar ook omdat het overdag 37 graden was en in de avond onder de 30 maar ik ook kon fietsen in de schaduw van de berg. Ik wilde eerste de steilste variant doen vanuit Collioure, tussen de wijngaarden, maar tijdens het afdalen over deze weg besloten dit maar niet te doen. Deze weg was namelijk van zeer slechte kwaliteit en erg steil op stukken. Dus toen maar deze variant gekozen. Volgens mij gaat het eerste deel van de klim naar Col de Serra, en daal je dan een stukje af naar de Col de Mollo om daar naar de Madeloc te klimmen. Vanaf hier is het ook lastig, regelmatig al 9 procent. Mij verbaasde het hoe smal de weg is. De Col de Serra is in vergelijking met makkelijk. Op zo'n 1,5 km van de top ga je het pad op naar de toren. Hier staan verbodsborden, maar misschien geld dit alleen voor auto's. Het eerste stuk van het pad valt eigenlijk nog wel mee, pas na de eerste bocht naar rechts wordt het steil. Dit is ook grillig, er zijn steeds erg steile stukken en dan een klein stuk om op adem te komen. De terugdraaiende haarspeldbochten zijn hierbij vaak net even wat vlakker. Eenmaal boven heb je een onwijs mooi uitzicht. Lijkt me erg gaaf als ze hier een Vuelta aankomst op zouden doen, maar zelfs daarvoor is het waarschijnlijk bovenop te beperkt qua finish ruimte.

Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86

Nice climb with good road surface (until last km). Some parts around 10% with some less steep parts in between. For people who are not race climbers (like me), this mountain is a nice challenge. Nice view as well.

Mooie beklimming met goed wegdek (tot laatste km). Aantal stukken rond de 10% met wat minder stijle delen er tussen. Voor mensen die geen rasklimmer zijn (zoals) ik is deze berg een mooi uitdaging. Tevens mooi uitzicht.

Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86

Done this climb in 2019. Heavy parts are in it and the surprise is at the end when you go up the Last km " perpendicular " up. You really should start this trek in the early morning. It can get so hot locally that you are almost toasted. But it is a very nice climb with views towards the coast which makes you long for a cool dive.

Deze beklimming gedaan in 2019. Zware stukken zitten er in en de verrassing zit aan het einde als je de Laatste km “ loodrecht” omhoog gaat. Deze tocht moet je echt beginnen in de vroege ochtend. Het kan lokaal zo warm worden dat je bijkans geroosterd wordt. Wel een hele mooie klim met vergezichten richting de kust waardoor het verlangen naar een koele duik tamelijk toeneemt.

Mickel

Climb from Collioure started. Beautiful route via narrow quiet road. Hardly any traffic. Very doable until the last few km. That is the real climb to the Madeloc. Very narrow, bad road surface with lots of gravel on the road and last 2 km really steep.

Klim vanuit Collioure gestart. Mooie route via smalle stille weg. Nauwelijks verkeer. Heel goed te doen tot de laatste paar km. Dat is het echte klimmetje naar de Madeloc. Heel smal, slecht wegdek met veel gravel op de weg en laatste 2 km echt heel steil.

Unlimited route downloads with climbfinder+

You have 50 climbs on your lists, if you want to add more you can do so with climbfinder+.

No more boring rides with climbfinder+

Cover Video

Cover Video

Madonna to end Celebration Tour with free concert in Brazil

Posted: 26 March 2024 | Last updated: 26 March 2024

On Monday, the Queen of Pop announced that she will perform a free show on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 4 May to mark the end of her world tour. According to a press release, the show "will be free of charge as a thank you to her fans for celebration more than four decades of her music over the course of the epic global run of the tour". The show will to take place in front of the Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel. No tickets are required and admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

More for You

Marjorie Taylor Greene's threat to oust Mike Johnson could backfire and allow Congress to pass more Ukraine aid

Marjorie Taylor Greene's threat to oust Mike Johnson could backfire and allow Congress to pass more Ukraine aid

8 Common Phrases You Say To Your Hair Stylist That Are Actually Rude

8 Common Phrases You Say To Your Hair Stylist That Are Actually Rude

A person's emotional reaction when waking up at night can affect sleep quality, according to neurologist Dr. Brandon Peters-Mathews of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health in Seattle. - Cavan Images/Getty Images/File

Why do I wake up at 3 a.m. every night?

Shamima Begum loses latest bid to fight citizenship removal

Shamima Begum loses latest bid to fight citizenship removal

Brown recluse spider table

The Cleaning Tip That Will Prevent Brown Recluse Spiders From Invading Your Home

Blondie by Dean Young and John Marshall

Blondie by Dean Young and John Marshall

Eric Trump says insurance companies laughed when he asked them for $454 million to cover Donald Trump's bond

Eric Trump says insurance companies laughed when he asked them for $454 million to cover Donald Trump's bond

Ron Harper, ‘Land of the Lost' and ‘Planet of the Apes' Actor, Dies at 91

Ron Harper, ‘Land of the Lost' and ‘Planet of the Apes' Actor, Dies at 91

Montana GOP Senate candidate wants to ax Department of Homeland Security

Montana GOP Senate candidate wants to ax Department of Homeland Security

Ukraine destroying Musk’s Starlink systems being used by Russia

Ukraine destroying Musk’s Starlink systems being used by Russia

Costco; Beijing, Hebei, China; October 2022

Costco Cracks Down on Food Court Seating, Only Allowing Paying Members to Sit at Tables

Can You Eat Sprouted Potatoes?

Can You Eat Potatoes with Sprouts?

The collapsed Baltimore bridge didn't stand a chance against such a huge cargo ship, engineers say

The collapsed Baltimore bridge didn't stand a chance against such a huge cargo ship, engineers say

34-year-old making $49,000 a month in passive income: What I always tell people who want to build successful side hustles

34-year-old making $49,000 a month in passive income: What I always tell people who want to build successful side hustles

House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., speaks during the House Oversight and Accountability Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, March 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

Republicans threaten to hold Attorney General Garland in contempt over Biden documents case

The Hidden History of Those Who Wrote the Christian Story

The Hidden History of Those Who Wrote the Christian Story

'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' Trailer: Michael Keaton & Winona Ryder Meet Again, Jenna Ortega Joins Ghastly Family | THR News Video

'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' Trailer: Michael Keaton & Winona Ryder Meet Again, Jenna Ortega Joins Ghastly Family | THR News Video

Trump appears to blame Israel for antisemitism, says Israel 'made a very big mistake'

Trump appears to blame Israel for antisemitism, says Israel 'made a very big mistake'

Hummingbird flying near thistle plant

Hummingbirds Will Keep Coming Back For These Three Plants In Your Yard

I moved to Finland after reading it was the happiest place on earth. Here are 6 things that surprised me living and working here.

I moved to Finland after reading it was the happiest place on earth. Here are 6 things that surprised me living and working here.

PSC 2024 LOGO

21 - 24 Mar 2024

Porsche Singapore Classic

Laguna National Golf Resort Club, Singapore, Singapore

laguna national golf resort 17

DP World Tour Partners

1 BMW_Grey-Colour_RGB

IMAGES

  1. Randonnée de la tour de Madeloc

    tour de madeloc over

  2. Tour de Madeloc

    tour de madeloc over

  3. Tour Madeloc

    tour de madeloc over

  4. La Tour Madeloc, phare de Collioure...

    tour de madeloc over

  5. The Madeloc Tower, lighthouse of Collioure...

    tour de madeloc over

  6. Tour de la madeloc

    tour de madeloc over

COMMENTS

  1. The Madeloc Tower

    This hike is not recommended in case of strong tramuntana. From the Col de la Serre, head towards the Batterie de Taillefer then towards the Col de Taillefer. After the pass, continue towards the Tour Madeloc. Go back down to the Battery of 500. Take the path that joins the GR10 (white and red markings) Follow the GR 10 to the right, past the ...

  2. Randonnée de la tour de Madeloc

    Vue depuis la randonnée de la tour de Madeloc . Les différents accès pour la Tour de Madeloc . Depuis la D86 - le chemin le plus facile et celui qui sera abordé dans cette randonnée, comptez un peu plus de 3,50 km A/R.; Depuis Banyuls-sur-Mer - depuis le col de Banyuls et via le pic de Sailfort, boucle difficile de 20km environ ou boucle de 16km de niveau moyen via le col de la Serre ...

  3. Tour Madeloc Routes for Walking and Hiking

    The Tour de Madeloc or Tour Madeloc is a medieval watchtower in the hinterland of the Côte Vermeille in the Pyrénées-Orientales in the ancient cultural landscape of Roussillon. contents. The Tour Madeloc is located on a 670 m high mountain peak in the hinterland of Banyuls-sur-Mer; From here you have a clear view of much of the coastline of ...

  4. Tour de Madeloc • Hiking Route » outdooractive.com

    With a little experience, this is an easy circular walk past the ruins of La Tina d'en Reig and the fortresses of Battery 500, Tour de Madeloc and Battery de Taillefer.

  5. Walk: Tour de Madeloc & Military Installations

    Tour de Madeloc & Military Installations (21.5km [13.5 miles]) 6 hours. This walk crystallises the reasons why we love this region and is the crowning glory to the walks around Port Vendres.. It is the longest, possibly the most challenging of the ones we have done, and offers some of the most sensational views over the region.

  6. Tour Madeloc

    Top ways to experience Tour Madeloc and nearby attractions. Private Commented Excursion in Argelès-sur-Mer by 2 CV Citroën. 4. Historical Tours. from. $77.31. per adult (price varies by group size) Walks in the heart of the secret vineyards around Collioure, tastings. 8.

  7. La Tour Madeloc: A Coastal Hike in the South of France

    The challenging parts of the trail are worth it however, because of the panoramic views of the sea, the coastal towns, and surrounding mountains. Once named the Devil's Tower, La tour de la Madeloc was built in the 13th century under James II, King of Majorca. Along with la tour de Massane, it was one of many beacons in the region to watch ...

  8. Tour Madeloc from Collioure via Col de Mollo

    Export to GPS device. Tour Madeloc from Collioure via Col de Mollo is a climb in the region French Pyrenees. It is 8.6km long and bridges 672 vertical meters with an average gradient of 7.8%, resulting in a difficulty score of 646. The top of the ascent is located at 650 meters above sea level.

  9. Sunset hike in the Pyrenees

    The Tour de Madeloc is a medieval watchtower on a 670 meters high summit in the hinterland of Banyuls-Sur-Mer. It is a two hours' drive from Cadaqués, and it takes you almost three from Barcelona. Sure if you are in Barcelona, there are already many things to see and do, but if you are looking for a great contrasting outdoor activity and want to do a hike in the Pyrenees, it is definitely ...

  10. Tour Madeloc

    Tour Madeloc is a climb in the region French Pyrenees. It is 9.6km long and bridges 647 vertical meters with an average gradient of 6.7%, resulting in a difficulty score of 552. The top of the ascent is located at 650 meters above sea level. Climbfinder users shared 0 reviews of this climb and uploaded 10 photos.

  11. Tour Madeloc from Port Vendres via Col de Mollo

    Export to GPS device. Tour Madeloc from Port Vendres via Col de Mollo is a climb in the region French Pyrenees. It is 8.1km long and bridges 590 vertical meters with an average gradient of 7.3%, resulting in a difficulty score of 542. The top of the ascent is located at 650 meters above sea level.

  12. Tour de Madeloc

    The Tour de Madeloc is a great vantage point over the Meditterranean coast, the view includes seaside resorts Argeles plage, Collioure, and Banyuls sur Mer

  13. Tour de Madeloc

    The Tour de Madeloc or Route Madeloc is a very small road located near the Spanish border and Cap Cerbere, in southern France. The drive starts in Banyuls-Sur-Mer and ends in Colliure. The road is called D86 and is part of the Route des Cols. There are labels to lead you to the street in both villages. Tour de Madeloc.

  14. Tour Madeloc

    We start early on the morning for a secondary road leaving Collioure and crossing all the vinyards, before starting the road to climb Madeloc, we did climb the Coll de Mollo, short one bad with a steep hill on the middle, crossing all the valley until the top. The second part was easy and with amazing views all climb long on our left, looking ...

  15. Tour de Madeloc (France)

    Last year in May, a few days after my birthday we went to Costa Brava to ride some heavy climbs. This was a one-day route that took us along the beautiful coast of Costa Brava to some of the steepest climbs I've ridden in Catalonia, so far.

  16. Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86

    Export to GPS device. Tour Madeloc from Collioure via D86 is a climb in the region French Pyrenees. It is 9.5km long and bridges 605 vertical meters with an average gradient of 6.4%, resulting in a difficulty score of 540. The top of the ascent is located at 606 meters above sea level. Climbfinder users shared 4 reviews/stories of this climb ...

  17. Madonna to end Celebration Tour with free concert in Brazil

    On Monday, the Queen of Pop announced that she will perform a free show on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 4 May to mark the end of her world tour. According to a press release, the ...

  18. Leaderboard

    Leaderboard - Porsche Singapore Classic 2024 - DP World Tour. 21 - 24 Mar 2024. Porsche Singapore Classic. Laguna National Golf Resort Club, Singapore, Singapore. Feed. Results. Leaderboard. Odds. Player Locator.