La Retirada et les chemins de l'Exil
In the footsteps of exiles who fled oppression during the Retirada and during the war of 39-45.
This superb hike along the border offers breathtaking views of the sea, from Cap de Creus to Cap Béar, as well as the mountains and the small port villages of Portbou and Cerbère. Memorials along the route remind you that this path was once used by many exiles fleeing Franco's Spain or German-occupied France. A visit to the Art Deco hotel, reminiscent of an ocean liner, "Le Belvédère du Rayon Vert" is highly recommended; more information is available online.
Leave the Cerbère Tourist Office and follow the D914 to the Cerbère photovoltaic lighthouse.
Go around the lighthouse, take the marked path which rises to the left above the cliffs.
Arrived at Puig de Cerbère, go to the right following the path and cross the D914.
At the old border post, turn right and go up to see the Retirada memorial on the hill. Continue and take the marked path on the left which goes down towards Port-Bou.
Upon arriving in Port-Bou, continue on the GR-92. Head towards the beach and the "Passeig de Sardana".
At the corner of the "Voramar" restaurant, turn right then take the first left, go up the stairs and turn right following the "Walter Benjamin Memorial" signs.