Rhumel Gorges & Chemin des Touristes
Gorges du Rhumel
Deep gorges carved by the Rhumel River through a limestone plateau surround the old city. Inside the gorge you will find a natural stone arch and a cliffside walkway cut in the 19th century.
The Rhumel River has cut a gorge up to 200 meters deep around the rocky plateau where Constantine stands. The city is protected on three sides by cliffs, which made it hard to attack and gave it the nickname "City of Bridges". Inside the gorge is a natural stone arch (Arche naturelle). The Chemin des Touristes, a path carved into the cliff face during the French period, lets visitors walk along the rock wall down to the riverbed. In recent years parts of it have been restored and reopened in stages, so check local announcements for current access. You can also see the gorge without going down, from the Sidi M'Cid Bridge, the Kantara Bridge, the War Memorial, and other viewpoints. Wear non-slip shoes, and avoid going down into the gorge on rainy days.
Opening hours
Open all day (trail access depends on restoration work)
Nearby sights
- Bab El Kantara Bridge
- Constantine Cable Car
- Mellah Slimane Footbridge
- Souika (Old Medina)
- Sidi M'Cid Bridge
- Great Mosque of Constantine
- Palace of Ahmed Bey
- Sidi Rached Viaduct