26 January 2024 | Tourism, Nature
Pyrenees-Orientales; between the sea and the mountains
The Pyrénées-Orientales, the southern jewel of France, offering an ideal getaway for lovers of nature, history and culture. Between the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean and the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees, this captivating region reveals a perfect balance of Mediterranean charm and mountainous splendor. In this article, let's discover the hidden treasures and unforgettable experiences of the Pyrénées-Orientales.
The Pyrénées-Orientales are a mosaic of breathtaking natural landscapes. From the Mediterranean coastline to snow-capped mountain peaks, geographic diversity provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Natural Park, where winding paths take you through lush forests, peaceful lakes and breathtaking panoramas of the Pic du Canigou.
The picturesque villages
The villages of the Pyrénées-Orientales tell a rich history steeped in Catalan traditions. Villefranche-de-Conflent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transports you back in time with its medieval ramparts, cobbled streets and authentic atmosphere. Castelnou, elected among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", reveals its medieval charms, with its castle overlooking stone houses. Small picturesque town of Céret with its cobbled streets, where you will find pretty hidden squares with restaurants and cafes.
The most beautiful peaks
Discover the most beautiful peaks of the Pyrénées-Orientales for lovers of skiing, hiking, outdoor sports and winter sports. Pic du Canigou: Pic du Canigou is a peak in the Pyrénées-Orientales in the south of France. Culminating at 2,784 meters above sea level, it is located in the Pyrenees regional natural park.
Puigmal: It is the second highest mountain, after Carlit, in the Eastern Pyrenees.
Pic Carlit: Culminating at 2,921 meters, the Pic du Carlit reigns in an exceptional natural environment. It offers wide panoramas of the valley and its countless lakes.
Madeloc Tower: it overlooks the Mediterranean and offers an exceptional view. Rising to an altitude of 652 meters, it benefits from an exceptional panorama dominating the plain and the coast of Roussillon. An old signal tower, it was once used to monitor the sea and Spain in order to ward off the slightest attacks.
Mediterranean Pleasures
The golden beaches of the Côte Vermeille invite you to relax and enjoy seaside pleasures. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches and coves available to you for a moment of relaxation. Collioure, pearl of the Mediterranean, seduces with its colorful streets, its royal castle and its restaurants offering seafood delicacies. Port-Vendres, an authentic fishing port, offers you an immersion in maritime life and seafood feasts .
The most beautiful beaches in the Eastern Pyrenees:
Anse Sainte Catherine in Port-Vendres: located below the lighthouse which punctuates Cap Béar, it nestles between the rocks to better offer its turquoise waters. A few houses, pebbles and sunshine.
Paulilles Cove in Port-Vendres:
Between Port Vendres and Banyuls, at the bend of yet another bend, a hollow in the last foothills of the Pyrenees, has drawn a cove. Paulilles… The most beautiful cove in all the Pyrénées-Orientales.
Le Racou in Argelès-sur-Mer: the presence of these little houses and the Pyrenees which flow into the Mediterranean Sea, we easily understand why Racou beach occupies a special place in the rankings of the most beautiful beaches in France.