Tour Madeloc
A 13th-century hilltop watchtower offering unparalleled Mediterranean views after a rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Tour Madeloc
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century hilltop watchtower offering unparalleled Mediterranean views after a rewarding hike.
"Amazing experience hiking, the view from the top is just wonderful."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for any hike up Tour Madeloc, as there are no water sources along the trails.
🚗 Drive Part Way Up
Save energy by driving to the higher parking spots for a shorter, 10-20 minute walk to the top.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tour Madeloc Tower
Summit
A 13th-century watchtower offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean and surrounding hills.
Vineyard Trails
Approaches from Collioure/Port-Vendres
Trek through picturesque vineyards on your way up, adding a scenic and rewarding element to your journey.
Mediterranean Vistas
Summit
Experience stunning 360-degree views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the French coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hike Smart, See More
Timing is Everything for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for any hike up Tour Madeloc, as there are no water sources along the trails.
🚗 Drive Part Way Up
Save energy by driving to the higher parking spots for a shorter, 10-20 minute walk to the top.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Some sections of the hike can be steep and require climbing; good footwear is essential.
☁️ Check Weather for Views
Clouds can obscure the amazing panoramic views, so aim for a clear day.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for any hike up Tour Madeloc, as there are no water sources along the trails.
🚗 Drive Part Way Up
Save energy by driving to the higher parking spots for a shorter, 10-20 minute walk to the top.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Some sections of the hike can be steep and require climbing; good footwear is essential.
☁️ Check Weather for Views
Clouds can obscure the amazing panoramic views, so aim for a clear day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tour Madeloc for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean and surrounding hills. The hike, whether challenging or shorter, is considered well worth the effort, with many recommending it as a must-do for the incredible vistas. Some note the steepness of certain sections and the lack of amenities, emphasizing the need for preparation.
"Loved this hike. We drove as high as we could and then hiked the rest, only about 20 minutes up and 20 minutes down. Amazing views in all directions near the top. Ascended the last few meters into the clouds. Amazing!"
Darren Reimer
"Absolute beautiful hike up to the tower. It’s quite steep and can be challenging at some places where you almost have to climb. But it’s totally worth it for the views."
Noah De Lauw
"Trekked all the way from Collioure, through the vineyards. This was quite tough on a hot day, you need to take lots of water but, the views from the top are fantastic. Overall this took us nearly 6 hours, though you can drive most of the way and do only the last 30mins on foot if you're lazy 😄!!"
Yosemite “Yosemite”
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can hike from Collioure or Port-Vendres, which takes several hours and offers beautiful vineyard scenery. Alternatively, you can drive most of the way up and park, leaving only a 10-20 minute walk to the tower.
Yes, there are parking areas higher up the mountain that significantly shorten the walking distance to the tower.
Public transport options directly to the tower are limited. Hiking or driving are the most common ways to access it.
The choice depends on your fitness level. Collioure or Port-Vendres offer longer, more challenging hikes, while higher parking spots provide a shorter ascent.
A full trek from Collioure can take up to 6 hours round trip. The shorter hike from the upper parking areas is around 20-40 minutes round trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour Madeloc is a historic landmark and generally does not require an entrance fee to access the tower and its surroundings.
As an outdoor historical site, Tour Madeloc is typically accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views.
No, there is no admission fee to visit Tour Madeloc. It's a free historical site to explore.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the inability to appreciate the panoramic views.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors should be mindful of the natural environment and historical significance of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible 360-degree views for panoramic shots. The trails through vineyards also provide beautiful photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow over the landscape.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the coastline.
Generally, no specific photo restrictions are in place, but always be respectful of the site and other visitors.
🎫 💧 Onsite Experience
Definitely bring plenty of water, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera.
There are no facilities, including restrooms, at the summit or along the immediate trails. Plan accordingly.
The difficulty varies. The full hike from the towns is challenging, while the ascent from higher parking is moderate with some steep sections.
The terrain can be steep and rocky in places, especially on the final approach to the tower. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Yes, you can picnic at the summit and enjoy the incredible views. Remember to pack out all your trash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the tower itself is a historical point of interest, the real highlight for kids will be the sense of accomplishment after the hike and the expansive views. Pack snacks and make it a fun outing, but be aware there are no facilities like restrooms or playgrounds at the site.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Remember to pack essentials: plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy hiking boots. The terrain can be uneven and steep in places. The reward for your effort is the unparalleled panoramic view from the summit, making the physical exertion entirely worthwhile.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike: Choosing Your Adventure
If time or energy is a concern, driving closer to the summit is a popular option. There are parking areas that allow you to reach the tower with a much shorter walk, typically around 10-20 minutes. This makes the stunning views accessible to a wider range of visitors, though some Redditors note it's for those who are 'lazy' but still want the payoff.
Regardless of your chosen path, sturdy footwear is non-negotiable. Some sections are steep and can feel like a scramble, requiring good grip and ankle support. And remember, there are no water stops, so carrying ample hydration is paramount for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Capturing the Panoramic Views
To make the most of your photographic opportunities, consider visiting on a clear day. Clouds can sometimes obscure the breathtaking panorama, diminishing the visual impact. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the sweeping vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on coastal details or distant landscapes.
While there are no specific photo restrictions, always be mindful of the historical nature of the site and the presence of other visitors. Respecting the environment and ensuring you have the necessary permissions if using drones (check local regulations) will contribute to a positive experience for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit