A Belle Époque spa town at the foot of the Canigou, Vernet-les-Bains is the starting point for the abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou, the Saint-Vincent gorges and the climb to the Catalans' sacred summit. Curated from the Loca database, no paid placement.
The village and its spa, the abbey above Casteil, the waterfalls and the summit of the Canigou.
A Benedictine abbey clinging to a rocky spur, consecrated in 1009. It is reached on foot from Casteil by a steep climb (good shoes needed). The marked loop around the abbey is 5.2 km, about 3 hours.
Built between 1880 and 1884, the casino is one of the few remaining traces of the great spa era, when an aristocratic clientele came here for the climate, the waters and the scenery.
An Anglican church, a reminder of the British visitors who flocked to the resort around the turn of the 20th century.
The church of the old village, higher up, with a fine view over the valley.
A quiet little museum devoted to the geology and minerals of the Canigou massif.
The Canigou massif, a designated Grand Site de France, begins at the edge of the village.
The most popular walk from the village: a path up the Saint-Vincent gorges to a series of waterfalls. Suitable for most walkers.
A waterfall in the Saint-Vincent gorges, in the same area as the Cascade des Anglais.
Wild gorges above Casteil, crossed by the trails climbing towards the Mariailles refuge.
The Catalans' sacred summit (2,784 m). From Vernet the climb usually goes via the Mariailles refuge. It is a serious mountain outing: check the weather, start early and be properly equipped.
A multi-day, 157 km circuit of the massif that passes through Vernet. For experienced hikers.
The spa and thermal baths that carry on the resort's tradition. Ideal for a relaxing afternoon after a hike.
A park in the heart of the village, a favourite for a shady break. Vernet calls itself a village arboretum, with many tree species to spot along its streets.
The village pool, a cool option for families in summer. Check opening times.
Restaurants, cafés and tapas bars cluster around the centre. Ask the Loca guide for a place that suits what you feel like right now.
Restaurant, campsite, activity or shop in Vernet-les-Bains? Reserve this spot to reach the visitors reading this guide.
For the abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou, park in Casteil and allow about an hour on foot for the climb. Check guided tour times in advance.
In the mountains the weather changes quickly, even in summer. Start early, take a jacket and water, and turn back if storms are forecast.
Vernet is about ten kilometres from Prades, so the two combine easily in one day.
The Loca digital tourist guide builds an itinerary from the same database behind this guide. The same technology is also available white-label for hotels, campsites and tourist offices.