The best MTB trails around Coustouges

The area east of the bridge is not particularly suitable for gravel bikes. The bridge is definitely worth a visit.

Translated by Google•View original

The Romanesque church is located in the main square. Right next to it is the Youth Hostel, which the girl tells me has only been open for three days. We had lunch there at a quarter to three, some bravas and an omelette sandwich that was really good.

Translated by Google•View original

Very beautiful church. The first name Laurenz is common in my family.

Translated by Google•View original

Its exact source is in the heights of the Canigó Massif, which is known for being one of the most emblematic mountains in the region. Rain and mountain streams feed its course. It flows into the Tech, a major river that runs through the Vallespir. The Tech is one of the most important rivers in the area and ends up flowing into the Mediterranean Sea, near Argelès-sur-Mer.

Translated by Google•View original

The La Quera River originates in the mountains of the Eastern Pyrenees, flows through the Vallespir region and finally flows into the Tech River, which in turn ends in the Mediterranean. Although it is a small river, its flow is seasonal and variable, depending on rainfall and snowmelt. It is an essential river for the local ecosystem, providing life and resources to the towns it passes through.

Translated by Google•View original

Closed with a padlock, it is not very high and you can get your bike to the other side if you climb on the stones next to it. This step is essential if you want to go to the source of La Muga.

Translated by Google•View original

The Church of San Lorenzo is a construction dating back to medieval times, and like many churches in the region, it has been modified and restored over the centuries. It is a reflection of the Romanesque and later Baroque influence, with several renovations carried out to maintain its structure and functionality. San Lorenzo is the patron saint of the town, which gives him a central role in the religious life of the community. The feast of San Lorenzo, celebrated on August 10, is one of the most important events in the town.

Translated by Google•View original

The origins of the village date back to medieval times, and like many towns in the Pyrénées-Orientales, Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans has historically been influenced by French and Catalan cultures. The Vallespir region has historically been a place of passage and trade between both sides of the border. Throughout the 19th century, the village experienced a boom due to its traditional industries, especially the manufacture of espardenyes (espadrilles) and cotton fabrics. These industries played an important role in the growth of the village and its regional recognition.

Translated by Google•View original

According to the most recent data, the population of Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans is approximately 1,200 inhabitants. Although there has been a decline in population in recent decades, the village remains one of the most important rural centres in the region, especially for its artisan tradition.

Translated by Google•View original

It has very few inhabitants, perhaps in the range of less than 50 people. It is a site with a strong rural and historical character, linked to the industrial traditions of the region, particularly metalworking. Today, it forms part of a natural landscape that attracts tourists interested in hiking and nature tourism, providing a glimpse into the past and a respite of tranquility in the Pyrenees.

Translated by Google•View original

Although it is no longer the main centre of worship for the village, it is still used on special occasions and religious festivals. Its preservation has been essential to preserving the region's medieval heritage. It has remained relatively intact over the centuries, although it has surely undergone restorations to maintain its original structure.

Translated by Google•View original

Like other Romanesque churches in the region, it is built of stone with thick walls. Its structure has a single nave, and its semicircular apse is typical of the Romanesque style. The simplicity of the construction reflects the austerity of the religious architecture of the time in rural areas such as Serralongue. It also has a small bell tower.

Translated by Google•View original

The Church of Sainte-Marie dates back to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest churches in the area. It was built at a time when the Romanesque style predominated in religious architecture, giving it a robust and simple character, with basic geometric shapes and few decorations.

Translated by Google•View original

The presence of two important churches in Serralongue reflects the importance of religious life in Vallespir over the centuries. It also reinforces the idea that the village was an important place both in the spiritual sphere and in border defence during the Middle Ages.

Translated by Google•View original

This place is well worth a stop. Located in the Vallespir, at an altitude of about 700 metres, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. With a population of around 200 inhabitants, Serralongue stands out for its tranquillity and natural surroundings.

Translated by Google•View original

The village is known for its Cabrens Tower, a medieval watchtower from the 13th century that served to protect the border. It also has the Romanesque Church of Saint-Assiscle et Sainte-Victoire, which also dates back to the Middle Ages. Serralongue's natural setting makes it a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts, with routes that allow you to explore the Pyrenees.

Translated by Google•View original

The last stretch to the summit is on gravel terrain with a fairly steep gradient, so you may need to get off your bike.

Translated by Google•View original

Unfortunately, visibility here isn't always good. You'll have to push your bike to reach the highest point, but then you'll enjoy the downhill section that awaits you. At night, it's a great place for stargazing.

Translated by Google•View original

A Romanesque bridge worth seeing. Be sure to take a detour there and take a look. You can easily walk across it.

Translated by Google•View original

The Llierca Bridge, also called Pont de Sadernes, is a bridge 28 m high, 52 m long and 3 m wide. With a single, very slender arch, it crosses the Llierca river between Tortellà and Sadernes. Romanesque in style, although we do not know the date of its construction, there is evidence of its use since at least the 14th century, when it is documented that a toll was paid to cross it. The bridge was probably built by order of the barons of Sales, to facilitate trade between the farmhouses located west of the Llierca river with the towns of Tortellà and Besalú.

Translated by Google•View original