Away from the crowded beaches, 3 little-known villages to discover in the Pyrénées-Orientales

Published on August 9, 2024 at 4:00 pm

Argelès-sur-mer, Canet-en-Roussillon, St Cyprien-plage... So many coastal towns that make the Pyrénées-Orientales so popular. Every year, the population of this département doubles, even triples, as tourists flock to these family-friendly seaside resorts. But the "P-O", as the locals say, is not just about beaches and campsites. It's also about the charming villages that can be discovered in the heights of the hinterland, hidden from view and the invading tourists. The proof is in these 3 magnificent villages in the Pyrénées-Orientales

Le village de Castelnou.

Summary

Eus
Castelnou
Villefranche-de-Conflent

Eus

Let's start this selection with a sure bet: Eus. This village in the centre of the Pyrénées-Orientales has been on the list of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France" since 1982. Since then, Eus has lived up to its reputation, offering an exceptional natural and cultural heritage. From the heights of the village, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the vineyards and surrounding countryside, while in the heart of the village, you can discover the charming stone buildings that are the hallmark of Eus.

Practical information:

📍 Location: it's here on Google Maps

👛 Price: free

🚌 Getting there: from Perpignan, it takes around 40 min to reach Eus via the N116.

Where to stay in Eus?

L'Ours Brun holiday rental - Eus

This holiday home has 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen and a terrace with mountain views.

From

£154

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Castelnou

If you had to choose just one of the villages in the Pyrénées-Orientales, it would definitely be Castelnou. Hidden away in the heights of northern Catalonia, you have to venture into the Aspres to admire and then visit this village of indisputable charm. You'll need to stay a whole day to discover its secrets and wander through its narrow streets. And above all, admire the changing light reflected on the stone façades.

Les ruelles verdoyantes de Castelnou.

Practical information

📍 Location: it's here on Google Maps

👛 Price: free

🚌 Getting there: from Perpignan, it takes less than 30 min via the N116.

Where to stay in Castelnou?

La Figuera - Castelnou

La Figuera B&B is located 20 km from Perpignan, in the medieval village of Castelnou. It features a terrace with mountain and village views, a shared lounge with TV and fireplace, and free Wi-Fi.

From

£97

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Villefranche-de-Conflent

As well as being listed as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", Villefranche-de-Conflent is a perfect example of Vauban architecture in Catalan country. The ramparts bear witness to its military past. The legendary little yellow train (aka. the Canari) serves the village.

Villefranche-de-Conflent.

Practical information

📍 Location: it's here on Google Maps

👛 Price: free

🚌 Getting there: from Perpignan ,allow 45 minutes via the N116.

Where to stay in Villefranche-de-Conflent?

the old post office - Villefranche-de-Conflent

Located in Villefranche-de-Conflent, 20 km from the Marcevol golf course and 39 km from Les Angles, l'ancienne poste offers a restaurant, mountain views and free Wi-Fi.

From

£135

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by Editorial Team

Need a hand? take a look at our guide

Pyrénées-Orientales