Looking for a thrill? You’ve found it.

Also known as Le Sentier du Vertige (loosely translated as the dizzy trail), a day out at the Gorge de la Carança is a thrilling adventure through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Pyrénées-Orientales. It’s breathtaking, exhilarating, and definitely not one for the faint-hearted.

Head up the N116 towards Prades and on to Thuès entre Valls, (around 17 km after Villefranche de Conflent,) and park in the car park (small charge) or take the little yellow train, being sure to get off at Thuès-La Carança.

A picnic area and kiosk selling cold drinks and ice-cream by the car park is the starting point for your adventure – for adventure it will be!

Cross the bridge and follow the footpath as it winds steeply upwards and into the gorge.

Originally carved into the rock in 1943 to provide access to the tunnel carrying water from the Carança to the hydroelectric plant in Thuès, the path clings dramatically to the limestone cliffs.

Along the way you’ll encounter narrow ledges fitted with cable handrails, metal walkways bolted into the rock face, ladders and suspension bridges, all suspended high above the rushing water below. It’s certainly not one for those who suffer from vertigo.

At times it feels as though one wrong step could send you plunging hundreds of metres into the gorge. But the spectacular surroundings make every moment worthwhile. Jagged cliffs in shades of grey, white and ochre tower above, while twisted trees and hardy plants cling improbably to the rock walls. Butterflies drift and shimmer in the sunlight, turning a challenging walk into an unforgettable experience.

It’s exhilarating and thrilling, and popular with confident walkers of all ages. Dogs are not permitted, and young children should only attempt the walk if both they and their accompanying adults are confident that it is within their ability.

There are several route options, with longer walks continuing up the gorge and eventually linking with the GR10 long-distance trail. Accommodation is available higher up the valley, so if you’re planning to explore further, take a good map and plan ahead. For more information, visit the Facebook page gorgesdelaCaranca or contact the Mairie in Thuès on 04 68 97 06 96.

And don’t be surprised if you spot Indiana Jones making his way down the trail looking a little stressed. If he can do it, so can you!