A holiday destination between the sea and the mountains
There's a good reason why the Pyrénées-Orientales is so popular with tourists. The region boasts many advantages, including a mild, sunny climate, diverse and beautiful landscapes, and a rich culture and history that have shaped the identity of this warm, colourful destination.
Both a seaside and winter destination, the Pyrénées-Orientales changes its face with the seasons, thanks to its unique geography. You'll find mountain ranges like the Pyrenees and the Albères, as well as bathing spots, with the Mediterranean or the department's lakes and ponds. Here's everything you need to know about this rich and popular region of southern France!
Why visit the Pyrénées-Orientales?
👉 For its coastline
A coastal destination in the south of France, the Pyrénées-Orientales boasts over 50km of coastline, offering locals and tourists alike incredible beaches with a wide variety of scenery and experiences to enjoy. From scuba diving at Banyuls-sur-mer to simply basking in the sun on the sandy beaches of Argelès-sur-mer, there's something for everyone!
And just a few kilometres from the sea are the majestic Pyrenees, towering over the plains of Roussillon. In winter, this mountain range is decked out in a magnificent coat of white and is a magnet for all winter sports enthusiasts. It has to be said that the destination is a must-see in winter, particularly with its major ski resorts, such as Les Angles, or Formiguères and its intimate atmosphere.
👉 For its villages
Facing the sea or on a mountainside, north or south, Catalonia is full of charming towns and villages. To discover them, a road trip between France and Spain is the best idea. Of course, every time you hit the road, don't forget to stop off for an afternoon or a day and stroll at your own pace through the seaside villages, such as Collioure, or the villages on the mountainside, such as Sorède.
Le Relais Des Trois Mas
Hotel with breathtaking views over the bay of Collioure and close to the town.👉 For its heritage
The Pyrénées-Orientales are a skilful blend of French and Spanish culture. This combination gives rise to Catalonia, a unique cultural territory. Catalonia has its own dance, the Sardana, its tasty and colourful cuisine, and also its own language, which the Catalans defend on a daily basis. A stay in the Pyrénées-Orientales is an incredible experience in the heart of Catalonia.
The Pyrénées-Orientales: for whom?
👉 For families
With a wide range of activities, the Pyrénées-Orientales is a family destination par excellence. From leisure parks and water sports to museums and casinos, every member of the family will be delighted with a stay in the Pyrénées-Orientales. What's more, most of the accommodation, such as campsites and hotels, is "family friendly", often offering child-friendly facilities.
Campsite Mas Llinas
Book your room now👉 For sports enthusiasts and nature lovers
The Pyrénées-Orientales region offers a wide variety of landscapes, from snow-capped mountains perfect for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, to fabulous water areas for diving. The weather conditions are also perfect for paragliding, a sport that is very popular in the region, as it offers great thrills and lets you enjoy the beauty of the countryside.
La pradella Bolquere
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The must-sees
How to get there?
Perpignan-Rivesaltes airport is about 30 minutes from Perpignan city centre.
If you want to arrive directly in Perpignan city centre, you can take the TGV and get off directly at Perpignan station.
✈️ Flight to Perpignan
Book your tickets nowWhere to stay?
The Pyrénées-Orientales department offers a wide range of options for your holiday, depending on your wishes, your budget and the towns you want to visit. A hotel overlooking the sea, a campsite with a swimming pool, a self-catering flat to make you feel at home... Our editorial team has selected the best offers for an unforgettable stay!
Practical information
👉 When to go to the Pyrénées-Orientales?
☀️ The best season is the summer, from June to July, when you can enjoy the great weather!
❄️ The less touristy winter period is ideal for discovering the landscape from a new angle and taking part in fun activities such as dog sledding.
👉 How do I get to Perpignan city centre?
🚌 The Sankéo network is the city's bus service. To get to Perpignan city centre from Perpignan Rivesaltes airport, you need to take line 6.
👛 Fare: €1.30
Check the timetable carefully if you are travelling on a Sunday or public holiday.
🚕 Otherwise, you can always take a taxi. The journey takes around ten minutes. The fare will vary depending on the number of passengers and luggage, and whether the journey is made at night.
👉 What are the top towns to visit on your first trip to the Pyrénées-Orientales?
You'll be spoilt for choice! Every traveller has their own preferences, and certainly the locals themselves wouldn't agree on the best towns to visit. But for a taste of the diversity of landscapes and beaches, you can do a Perpignan/Canet en Roussillon combo, or Collioure/Argelès-sur-Mer.
We recommend that you hire a car locally so that you can explore the region to your heart's content!
👉 What are the culinary specialities?
There's a long list, and whether you're a sweet or savoury eater, there's something for everyone! Collioure is famous for its anchovies and Canet en Roussillon for its olive oil.
Markets are the best way to discover the region's culinary specialities and support local producers. For fruit lovers, the sun-drenched Gariguette strawberry and Roussillon apricot will delight your taste buds!
If you don't have any specific ideas for outings or activities to do during your stay, the tourist offices can give you plenty of recommendations and advice!
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