4.5
(842)
5,117
hikers
157
hikes
Hiking around Nohèdes offers diverse landscapes within the Pyrénées-Orientales department of France, primarily characterized by the Nohèdes Nature Reserve. The terrain features a transition from supramediterranean to subalpine zones, encompassing forests, alpine lawns, heathlands, and rocky areas. Notable mountainous features include the limestone Mont Coronat to the north and the granitic Madres massif at higher altitudes, alongside several high-altitude lakes like Estany del Clot and Gorg Estelat.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.5
(19)
79
hikers
13.6km
04:46
770m
770m
Hike the moderate 8.5-mile Nohèdes - le Gorg Estalat loop in Pyrénées Catalanes Regional Natural Park, featuring Lake Nohèdes and panoramic
4.6
(16)
75
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(5)
42
hikers
10.8km
03:59
700m
700m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(11)
34
hikers
8.09km
02:57
530m
530m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(5)
39
hikers
6.01km
02:17
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Pretty lake located west of the Nohèdes nature reserve.
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Lake Nohèdes, also called Gorg Estelat, is a magnificent lake at an altitude of 2,002 meters at the foot of the Pic de Madrès.
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The last part of the road leading to the start point is not sutable for all road cars. High ground clearance is a must!
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Nohèdes offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 150 trails recorded on komoot. These range from easy walks to challenging ascents, catering to all fitness levels.
The region boasts incredibly diverse landscapes, transitioning from supramediterranean to subalpine zones. You'll encounter dense forests, alpine lawns, heathlands, rocky areas, and high-altitude lakes. Notable features include the limestone Mont Coronat and the granitic Madres massif.
Yes, Nohèdes has numerous trails suitable for families. While specific 'easy' routes aren't highlighted for families in the data, the region offers 44 easy-rated tours. These often provide scenic views without significant elevation challenges, allowing for a pleasant outing with children.
Many of the trails in Nohèdes are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate option is the Lakes of Nohèdes Loop, which takes you past the stunning high-altitude lakes.
Hikers can discover several beautiful natural features. The high-altitude lakes like Estany del Clot, Gorg Estelat, and Gorg Negro are prominent. You might also encounter the Saut Grand de Castlar Waterfall or explore the Canalettes Caves. For panoramic views, consider routes that lead to summits like Pic de la Pena.
Nohèdes offers hiking opportunities throughout much of the year, but the best time depends on your preference. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is ideal for exploring higher altitudes and lakes, though some trails might be busy. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of snow conditions, especially in the subalpine zones.
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, Nohèdes has 27 difficult-rated trails. An example is the Clot Lake – Lake Nohèdes (Gorg Estelat) loop from Réserve naturelle de Nohèdes, which involves significant elevation gain and explores glacial cirques.
The trails in Nohèdes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning high-altitude lakes, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels. The region's rich biodiversity is also a highlight for many.
The Nohèdes Nature Reserve is a protected area with specific regulations. While many trails outside the immediate reserve might be dog-friendly, it's crucial to check local signage and reserve rules regarding dogs, especially concerning leash requirements and restricted areas to protect wildlife and sensitive habitats.
Yes, there are refuges available in the area. For instance, the Refuge d'Oller can be found along some routes. These can provide shelter or a place to rest during longer excursions. The nature reserve also has a 'Maison de la Réserve' which can offer more information on facilities.
The elevation gain varies significantly across the region due to its diverse terrain, ranging from 760 m to 2,459 m in altitude. Moderate trails like the Roc de la Coste loop from Jujols can have around 527 meters of ascent, while more difficult routes can involve over 900 meters of elevation gain.
Yes, some trails in the broader Nohèdes region offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. While not specifically detailed in the provided routes, the region research mentions routes that lead through historical sites, such as the Évol Castle and Saint-André d'Évol Church, allowing you to explore both heritage and nature.


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