Canigou

Canigou - the holy mountain of the Catalans, is located in the valley of Vallespir in the Roussillon region. Measuring 2784 m.a.s.l.  it is the mountain to be seen throughout the area. The legend tells that the first climb up Canigou was done by King Pierre of Aragon in 1284. People who live below this majestic mountain honour its presence in their daily life. It is thought to give protection and happiness, a fact that is more so celebrated on the 24^th of June. At dawn, many Catalans walk up the mountain to celebrate the fete of St Jean. A cross with the Catalan flag draped over it marks the peak and it is here that the big fire of St Jean is lit, signalling to the other Pyrenees  peaks to follow. Flowers are placed on doors, fires throughout the small villages are lit,  believed to give protection and happiness. It is a fact that all Catalans always sleep with their heads in the direction of Canigou...

There are two main routes to walk Canigou, one inlcudes an overnight at a charming mountain lodge, heberge, and one is best done at early morning hours to experience the sun rise at the top pf Canigou. The best time of the year to walk Canigou is late springtime, on order for the snow capped peak to have melted away to make it easier to walk, early summer avoiding the hottest late July and August months and the autumn makes a perfect time with mild teperature still prevails and the clear skies.