The warmer weather is upon us, and you're feeling the need to get away from it all! While some people find it impossible to go far away to discover new horizons, you don't have to leave France to get a complete change of scenery. The Pyrénées-Orientales is full of natural wonders and charming villages where life is good. Always sunny, the department appeals to tourists for its climate, culture and history. Here's a quick rundown of all that awaits you in the département during a break in the Pyrénées-Orientales, in the heart of Occitanie.
Located just 12 kilometres from Perpignan, Elne is a town divided into two parts: the Ville-Haute and the Ville-Basse. The upper part is the most interesting, offering a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding area. In the background: the majestic Canigou.
In the old town of Céret, you can lose yourself in the narrow streets and enjoy a well-deserved break in one of the town's shady squares. These give Céret a lot of character. Don't miss a visit to the Museum of Modern Art, with works by Picasso, Chagall, Dufy and Dali.
The seaside resort of Argelès-sur-Mer is very popular with tourists during the summer. Seven kilometres of fine sandy beaches and 2 kilometres of rocky coastline are just some of the assets that have made this town famous.
Occitania
Situated at an altitude of 1,094 metres, the abbey of Saint-Martin du Canigou is a true marvel. The site is listed as a Historic Monument. But a visit to this abbey has to be earned! The only way to get there is on foot from the village of Casteil. It's a 40-minute climb. But once you're there, the rewards are well worth the effort. From the abbey, a staircase will take you to a belvedere from where you'll have an uninterrupted view of the entire monastery.
Collioure is a small village in the Pyrénées-Orientales, ideal for a sunny holiday between sea and mountains. Collioure was an important Mediterranean port in Roman times. The most picturesque district is Le Moré, a former seafarers' and fishermen's quarter, made up of a maze of steep, picturesque streets.
Pyrénées-Orientales
The seaside resort of Banyuls has a lot going for it. Located close to a vineyard, epicureans will be delighted to stay here. What's more, its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea is a plus for those who enjoy lounging around or taking part in water sports. Aristide Maillol, the famous sculptor, was born in the town. The town boasts a museum that pays tribute to the artist.
Although the omnipresent stone gives the village a rugged character, you only have to stroll along the staircase lanes to perceive an intimate atmosphere where the stone of the buildings blends with the flowers and vegetation. Between sun and shade, this village is a real gem.
Pyrénées-Orientales
With its 12 kilometres of coastline, it's very easy to find a pleasant beach for swimming or lounging. For the more adventurous, there are small coves between the rocks where you can admire the beautiful landscape of the Vermeille coast.
The Pyrénées-Orientales welcomes tourists in both summer and winter. Thanks to the Pyrenees mountain range, there are many ski resorts in the département, including Font Romeu, Les Angles and Formiguères. Whether you're an expert or a beginner, there's a snow-covered slope for you to enjoy.
Villefranche-de-Conflent is both Plus Beaux Villages de France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Vauban network. If you love stone buildings, you'll love this village. A visit to the ramparts gives you an overview of the medieval town. After this brief overview, it's time to lose yourself in the maze of Villefranche-de-Conflent and discover its treasures.
Canet-en-Roussillon is the second largest town in the Pyrénées-Orientales after Perpignan. The town is best known for being a major seaside resort. That's not to say, however, that Canet-en-Roussillon has lost any of its charm. The old town of Canet still boasts narrow streets and pretty bell towers.
Mont Canigou is the emblem of the Pyrénées-Orientales department. It rises to an altitude of 2,784 metres. It's the perfect spot for all those who love hiking and outdoor activities.
The Cerbère-Banyuls Marine Nature Reserve stretches for no less than 6.5 kilometres. You don't need professional equipment: with a mask and snorkel, you can contemplate the aquatic fauna along an underwater path.
Is it a coincidence that when you reverse the V and the M, the Côte Vermeille becomes "the Côte Merveille"? I'd say no, but that's just an opinion. The Côte Vermeille begins south of Argelès-sur-Mer and extends as far as Port-Bou (the start of the Costa Brava). Along this coast are many charming towns, which we mention in this article: Collioure, Port-Vendres, Banyuls-sur-Mer...
Pyrénées-Orientales
Banyuls is a naturally sweet wine from the region's vineyards. It is produced in just 4 communes in the department. This spirit (to be consumed in moderation) is an essential part of regional cuisine.
Occitania
Lac des Bouillouses is a listed natural site in the Pyrénées-Orientales, and has been since 1976. This high-altitude lake (2,000 metres) is very well known in the region, and even in Spain. Hikers love discovering the flora and fauna of this area. A day's hike and picnic around Lac des Bouillouses is an excellent idea for families or friends.
Just a few kilometres from the sea... the mountains. This is one of the treasures of the Pyrénées-Orientales. The Albères massif is rugged, cut by deep valleys framed by several peaks. Hikers will be delighted to discover such a site, so close to the sea, as it overlooks the town of Argelès-sur-Mer.
Occitania
