Go beyond the borders of the destination: discover the surrounding area!
The Pyrénées-Orientales, of which Perpignan Méditerranée is a part, is packed with places to visit. Proud of its rich history, the department has managed to preserve the vestiges of the past, giving it a certain renown and attracting thousands of visitors every year! In summer, the magnificent beaches of southern Occitanie are the perfect place to enjoy the Mediterranean climate. When it comes to landscapes, Perpignan Méditerranée and the surrounding area offer unparalleled scenery.
Visiting the Pyrénées-Orientales: our heritage
Situated at the crossroads of Mediterranean civilizations, the département boasts a vast heritage, imbued with different cultures: mainly Catalan, French and Spanish. A blend of civilizations that has given the region a singular identity. Discover it through the department's heritage and historical gems.
The fortress of Salses
Built on the site of the former border between France and the Kingdom of Aragon in the Iberian Peninsula by Ramiro López at the end of the 15th century, the building
was used to protect Aragonese territory from invasion. Repeatedly besieged, taken and retaken in 1503, 1639 and 1640, the fortress fell definitively to the French in 1642.
After the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659, the borders were redrawn and the fortress lost its importance. It was only a few years later, in 1691, that Vauban undertook its partial restoration. The monument can be visited to learn more about the often tumultuous history of the region.
Cathar castles
The Pyrénées-Orientales is home to some of the most emblematic Cathar castles, bearing witness to an important chapter inmedieval history. These fortresses, perched on rocky peaks, offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Among the most famous castles are Quéribus and Peyrepertuse. More than just a historical souvenir, these old stones are a testimony to the region's history. Quéribus and Peyrepertuse are also must-sees for history buffs.
- Quéribus
"The last bastion of the Cathars
It stands on a steep ridge in the Corbières massif at an altitude of almost 700 m. The castle is located on the border between the Pyrénées-Orientales and Aude departments. The ruins, the best-preserved of its kind, are accessible from the commune of Cucugnan. It's an ideal vantage point from which to contemplate the Roussillon plain.
- Peyrepertuse
"The citadel of vertigo
This castle sits atop an impressive ridge 800 m above sea level, in the village of Duilhac. An open-air balcony, the remains offer a remarkable view of the Pyrenees. And for sports enthusiasts, Peyrepertuse castle is a stage on the GR 367.
Other must-see towns!
As you move away from Perpignan Méditerranée, don't miss out on the picturesque villages and the Côte Vermeille!
Just 25 km from the city of Perpignan, visit Collioure and discover its cobbled streets and colorful houses. Follow the path of Fauvism as you discover the artistic inspirations of Matisse, Picasso and Derain. Savor Collioure's traditional anchovies and other culinary specialties. Enjoy the town's rich architectural heritage, with its medieval walls, Château Royal and small marina. Walk, drive or take the tourist train up to Fort Saint-Elme for a breathtaking view of the town. It's also a great spot to watch the sun set over the mountains. In short, a visit to Collioure is a taste of Catalonia and its savoir-vivre.
Nature in the Pyrénées-Orientales
The Pyrénées-Orientales department boasts a multitude of places with unique, unspoilt landscapes. Discover the nature reserves nestled between sea and mountains. And enjoy a region that can be visited in any season!
The organs of Ille-sur-Têt
Part of a geological tourist site, the organs of Ille-sur-Têt are majestic columns of clay and sand, several meters high. A change of scenery is guaranteed with these fairy chimneys, as they are known. The site also lends itself well to walks, with a pathway laid out around these million-year-old sedimentary columns. This extraordinary natural site, doomed to disappear one day, was born of erosion and has been transformed over the centuries by the elements (wind, rain...), hence its fragility.
Choose a visit at the end of the day for a magnificent sunset.
Exceptional nature reserves
If you're looking for places to wander in the Pyrénées-Orientales, head for one of these 6 nature reserves!
Eyne, Jujols, Mantet, Py, Conat or Nyer: nature lovers won't be disappointed when they visit the Pyrénées-Orientales! These nature reserves offer unspoilt scenery, including lakes, forests, waterfalls, mountains and gorges. These spots are ideal for hiking and observing flora and fauna in extraordinary natural settings.
Did you know?
Most of these reserves are essential to the preservation of biodiversity and are managed by local organizations.
Visiting the Pyrénées-Orientales: the beaches
It's hard not to mention the department's beaches, which are popular with tourists in season and adored by locals all year round! They're also the reason why the département is one of France's favorite destinations. Whether you're looking to relax, swim, sunbathe or play a game of Molkky, you're sure to find a spot of sand to enjoy Perpignan Méditerranée's finest beaches.
The coastal path
The Pyrénées-Orientales coastal path is a true marvel for hikers and nature lovers. It runs alongside the Mediterranean, offering breathtaking scenery. Along the way, you'll discover unspoilt beaches and coves, steep cliffs and typical Mediterranean vegetation.
Admire the clarity of the water and the calm or bustle, as the wind blows, of a sparkling sea licking the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along the coast or embark on a longer hike, the Pyrénées-Orientales coastal path offers you a unique experience.
L'Anse de Paulilles
On the Côte Vermeille, we also suggest you discover the Anse de Paulilles. This is a listed site in Port-Vendres (between Collioure and Banyuls).
To reach the beach, you'll pass through a garden planted with different species of plants. A circuit presenting each species leads you to the beach. Just before the beach, take advantage of the belvedere to get some height.
Nestled at the foot of the mountains and terraced vineyards, it's the perfect place for sunbathing and enjoying the mild weather.
In addition to beach activities, you can visit the former dynamite factory set up by Alfred Nobel in 1870, or discover the secrets of Catalan boat building.
Worth knowing:
- Please note that during the high season, the parking lot can quickly become overcrowded.
- Pay close attention to the opening and closing times of the Paulilles site.
Visiting the Pyrénées-Orientales: the mountains
The Pyrenees-Orientales is packed with iconic peaks that attract hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts.
Le Canigou
The Canigou mountain, a true symbol of the region, proudly dominates the landscape at an altitude of 2,784 metres. It offers incredible panoramic views of the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean and even the Catalan coast of Spain. Climbing Canigou is a real challenge for experienced hikers, but there are also more accessible itineraries for walking enthusiasts. Depending on the weather, some will appreciate the sea of clouds that gives the impression of an expanse of cotton, leaving only the peaks visible.
Le Carlit
Another emblematic peak is the Carlit. At 2,921 meters, it is the highest peak in the département. Located in the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, it offers spectacular mountain scenery, with glacial lakes and verdant valleys. Hikers can follow the GR10, a long-distance hiking trail that crosses the Pyrenees from east to west, offering breathtaking views of peaks and valleys.
La Massane and La Madeloc
There are also two well-known towers in the département, overlooking the sea and neighboring towns. The view, from Spain to the Corbières, is sure to please.
- The Massane Tower
In the hills above Argelès-sur-Mer, in the heart of the Albères mountain range, this tower rises to an altitude of some 800 meters. It can be reached on foot, after a hike. There are several starting points, and the route is moderately difficult.
- The Madeloc Tower
Rising to an altitude of almost 600 metres, this 12th-century watchtower is accessible by car, and the last part is on foot. Beware: there's a steep incline at the end. If you're feeling sporty, you can try the last part on foot or by bike. Take care with your equipment, as the gradient in places is quite steep.
See also
The best spots to admire the Canigou.