Gorges de Saint Georges

## Overview The Gorges de Saint-Georges is a striking limestone gorge located in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of southern France, near the village of Saint-Georges in the Occitanie region. Situated at approximately 42.787°N, 2.223°E, this public drinking spring emerges within one of the dramatic gorges carved by millennia of water flowing through the eastern Pyrenean foothills. The gorges of this area are renowned for their geological character — deep, narrow passages cut through Mesozoic limestone, exposing layers of rock that tell the story of ancient seas and tectonic uplift. Springs in the Gorges de Saint-Georges benefit from natural filtration through these limestone formations, and the water has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and travelers passing through the region. The surrounding landscape is typical of the Corbières and Fenouillèdes areas: rugged, sun-drenched hillsides covered in Mediterranean scrub, with cooler, shaded microclimates deep within the gorge itself. The spring sits in a region with a long history of human habitation, and natural water sources like this one have been valued for centuries in the relatively arid climate of the eastern Pyrenean foothills. ## Directions 1. The spring is located in the Gorges de Saint-Georges, in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of southern France. 2. From Perpignan, head west on the D117 toward Quillan and the interior of the Aude/Pyrénées-Orientales border region. 3. Navigate toward the GPS coordinates **42.787276, 2.22269** using a GPS device or mapping application for the most precise route to the spring's location within the gorge. 4. Look for access points or pull-offs along the road that passes through or near the gorge. Springs in this area are often found alongside the road or a short walk from it. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. It is recommended to use a reliable GPS or offline mapping app, as mobile signal can be limited in the gorges.* ## What to Expect Visitors to the Gorges de Saint-Georges will find a natural spring set within a dramatic gorge landscape. The gorge walls rise steeply on either side, creating a cool, shaded environment even during the hot Mediterranean summers. The spring is designated as a public drinking spring, and the water has historically been used by locals as a source of fresh drinking water — though, as with any natural source, conditions can change over time. The surrounding terrain is rocky and may be uneven, so sturdy footwear is advisable. The gorge itself is a scenic destination in its own right, offering opportunities for photography, short walks, and enjoying the natural beauty of the eastern Pyrenees. Depending on the season, water flow may vary — springs in this limestone region tend to be more robust in spring and after rainfall, and may diminish during the dry summer months. The area is relatively remote, so visitors should come prepared with water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear. The nearest towns for supplies and services are along the D117 corridor.