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.
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 diving at Banyuls-sur-Mer to simply basking in the sun on the sands 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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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