The Yellow Train of the Catalan Pyrenees, affectionately nicknamed "the little yellow train" or "the Canary," is emblematic of the Pyrénées-Orientales region. Connecting Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol, this historic train transports you through magnificent landscapes while revealing the exceptional heritage of the Pyrenees.
1. AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY ABOARD THE YELLOW TRAIN
The Yellow Train's route, approximately 63 kilometers long, is famous for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, deep valleys, and preserved forests.
Starting from Villefranche-de-Conflent, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it crosses impressive structures such as the Séjourné bridge and the spectacular Séjourné viaduct, offering magnificent panoramas of the Catalan Pyrenees.
Route and stations served by the little Yellow Train of the Pyrenees:
- Latour de Carol/Enveitg (ticket purchase at the counter)
- Enveitg-Village-Béna-Fanès
- Ur les Escaldes
- Bourg Madame (ticket purchase at the counter)
- Osséja
- Ste Léocadie
- Err
- Saillagouse
- Estavar
- Font Romeu/Odeillo Via (ticket purchase at the counter)
- Bolquère/Eyne
- Mont Louis/La Cabanasse (ticket purchase at the counter)
- Planès
- Sauto
- Fontpédrouse/St Thomas
- Thuès Carança
- Thuès les Bains
- Nyer
- Olette Canaveille les Bains
- Joncet
- Serdinya
- Villefranche de Conflent/Vernet les Bains (ticket purchase at the counter)
Yellow Train schedules and ticket booking
To plan your adventure aboard the little Yellow Train, tickets can be booked online on the official SNCF website, or directly at the counters of served stations such as Villefranche-de-Conflent, Mont-Louis, or Font-Romeu.
Remember to check the Yellow Train schedules in advance, especially during the summer when tourist numbers are high. Yellow Train fares vary depending on the distance traveled, with possible discounts for children, seniors, and groups.
Journey duration and flexible stops
The full journey, lasting approximately 3 hours, allows travelers to fully enjoy the exceptional landscapes at a moderate speed, ideal for contemplation.
The little Yellow Train also offers the flexibility to get on or off at several popular stops such as Mont-Louis, Font-Romeu, or Bolquère station, the highest in France at 1593 meters above sea level, ideal for hiking or exploring the surrounding villages.
2. CULTURAL HERITAGE OF THE CERDAGNE YELLOW TRAIN
The Yellow Train of the Catalan Pyrenees is a true historical and cultural treasure, inaugurated at the beginning of the 20th century to open up remote villages.
Traveling aboard the Canary means slowly discovering local traditions, regional gastronomy, and exceptional panoramas, while enjoying the comfort of panoramic and open carriages during the summer.
Can you get on or off at several stops?
Yes, it is entirely possible to get on or off at several stops during a trip aboard the Yellow Train of the Pyrenees, making it an ideal option for hikers and nature lovers. This train, which winds through the mountains of the Pyrénées-Orientales, serves about twenty stations along its route between Villefranche-de-Conflent and Latour-de-Carol. Among these stations, several are located near exceptional natural sites and picturesque villages, offering perfect opportunities to explore the surroundings.
The stations of Mont-Louis, Font-Romeu, and Bolquère-Eyne are popular stops for hikers. Mont-Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, allows you to discover a historic fortress, while Font-Romeu is renowned for its hiking trails and outdoor activities. In Bolquère, the highest station in France, trails lead you through impressive mountain landscapes.
The Yellow Train ticket system allows for some flexibility. Once disembarked at a station, travelers can take the next train, depending on the schedule, to continue their journey or return to their starting point. This provides the opportunity to enjoy several stops during the day.
This flexibility and the diversity of landscapes crossed make the Yellow Train an ideal option for a day of exploration in nature.
3. THE YELLOW TRAIN OF VILLEFRANCHE-DE-CONFLENT
The journey begins in Villefranche-de-Conflent, a medieval fortress classified by UNESCO.
This fortified town, with its cobbled streets and craft shops, is the perfect starting point for an adventure in the Pyrenees.
The train then winds through mountainous landscapes, offering unique perspectives of the region.
4. BOLQUÈRE STATION: FRANCE'S HIGHEST SNCF STATION
Bolquère Station, perched at 1593 meters above sea level in the French Pyrenees, holds the title of France's highest SNCF station. It is a place that embodies the fusion of technical ingenuity and natural splendor.
This station, located in the charming commune of Bolquère, is more than just a railway stop; it is a symbol of mountain history and culture. Inaugurated in the early years of the 20th century, it was a key element in the development of the railway network in the mountainous region.
When the Yellow Train stops there, passengers are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped mountains, vast pine forests, and crisp high-altitude air.
Over the years, Bolquère Station has become a popular destination for tourists and winter sports enthusiasts. It is the meeting point between past and present, a place where travelers can feel the pulse of history while enjoying the wonders of the natural world.
5. TICKET PRICE
The price of a Yellow Train ticket is not only affordable but also excellent value given the unique experience it offers.
Fares vary depending on the distance traveled and chosen options, such as open-top carriages or first-class seats.
On average, a single journey (excluding regional promotions depending on the seasons) costs €22.50 for a 3-hour trip.
It is advisable to check current prices and schedules on the official SNCF website or at local stations.
Winter experience aboard the Yellow Train
The Yellow Train also operates in winter, offering a unique experience through spectacular snowy landscapes.
During the cold season, schedules may vary, so it is advisable to check up-to-date information on the official website or at the station.
It is also an excellent option for reaching renowned ski resorts such as Font-Romeu.
6. UNIQUE SOUVENIR: EXCLUSIVE YELLOW TRAIN POSTERS BY FOLIOVE
Immortalize your exceptional journey with the exclusive Yellow Train posters offered by Foliove, and Catalan Pyrenees posters.
These works, vibrant tributes to the famous Canary, will be a lasting souvenir of your exploration of the Catalan Pyrenees.
An elegant and nostalgic decoration, available on the Foliove online store.
