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The Catalan Eden: A Journey to the Heart of the New Provence of the Pyrénées-Orientales

HC

Jun 08, 2025By HC

Between sea and mountains, the Pyrénées-Orientales region stands out as a true Catalan Eden, an authentic alternative to Provence, rich in characterful villages, spectacular natural sites, and unique Romanesque heritage.

Discovering Authentic Villages

Céret, Capital of Cherries and Art
An emblematic town of Vallespir, Céret enchants with its cobbled streets, shaded squares, colorful markets, and artistic atmosphere.

  • Renowned Museum of Modern Art, frequented by Picasso and Matisse
  • Must-sees: the Fountain of 9 Jets, Saint-Ferréol Hermitage, Devil’s Bridge, and the cherry festival in spring

Vivès, a Haven of Tranquility
A small village in Vallespir, surrounded by unspoiled nature and Mediterranean hills.

  • Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for lovers of calm and hiking
  • Close to Céret, Amélie-les-Bains, and the Pyrénées Catalanes Regional Natural Park

Tresserre, Between Aspres and Roussillon

  • A typical rural town of the Aspres, surrounded by vineyards and garrigue.
  • Hiking trails, Catalan authenticity, protected natural heritage (Natura 2000 site “le Tech”)

Collioure, Jewel of the Côte Vermeille

  • A fishing village with incomparable charm, voted “Favorite Village of the French” in 2024.
  • Colorful streets, flower-filled houses, lively port, and beaches bordered by mountains
  • Medieval heritage with the Royal Castle, Notre-Dame-des-Anges Church, and Fort Saint-Elme
  • A fauvism hotspot, inspiring Matisse, Derain, and Picasso
  • Catalan atmosphere, markets, festivals, and local gastronomy (anchovies, Collioure wines)

Banyuls-sur-Mer, Between Sea and Mountain

  • A picturesque village on the Spanish border, renowned for its spectacular landscapes and famous wines.
  • Pebble beaches, wild coves, hiking trails in the Albères range, and varied water activities
  • Authentic atmosphere, colorful houses, artisan workshops, and centuries-old winemaking tradition
  • Marine nature reserve and underwater trail to discover Mediterranean biodiversity

Natural and Heritage Wonders Not to Miss

  • Saint-Martin-du-Canigou Abbey: Romanesque masterpiece perched on a rocky spur, accessible after a hike, a place of spirituality and grand panoramas
  • The Orgues of Ille-sur-Têt: Fairy-tale landscape of hoodoos and clay cliffs sculpted by erosion, a unique natural site in France
  • Marie-Madeleine Cave: Spectacular cave overlooking the valley near Villefranche-de-Conflent, a place of legends and breathtaking views
  • Villefranche-de-Conflent Valley: UNESCO-listed fortified village, medieval streets, access to the Little Yellow Train, gateway to exploring the Conflent
  • Saint-Michel de Cuxa Cloister: Romanesque masterpiece famous for its sculpted columns and capitals, a haven of peace and beauty
  • Canigou, Sacred Mountain: Iconic summit at 2,784 m, Catalan symbol, hiking and panoramic views over the plain and the Mediterranean
  • Llech Gorges: Spectacular canyon at the foot of Canigou, renowned for canyoning, natural slides, waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters

Why Choose the Catalan Eden?

  • Diversity of landscapes: From the Mediterranean to the Pyrenean peaks, picturesque villages, unique natural sites
  • Living heritage: Romanesque art, Catalan traditions, markets, festivals, and authentic gastronomy
  • Activities for everyone: Hiking, whitewater sports, cultural discovery, relaxation, and well-being
  • Preserved atmosphere: Gentle way of life, rare authenticity, far from the crowds

“The Catalan Eden is the promise of a journey between nature, culture, and emotion, at the heart of the new Provence of the Pyrénées-Orientales.”

Come explore this exceptional land, where every village, valley, and summit tells the story of the Catalan soul!

Here, Mediterranean light illuminates varied landscapes: from the turquoise coves of the Côte Vermeille to the vineyards of the Aspres, from the colorful streets of Collioure and Banyuls-sur-Mer to the secret trails of Céret, Vivès, or Tresserre.
Traditions are lived to the rhythm of festivals, markets, and authentic encounters.
Romanesque heritage, from Saint-Martin-du-Canigou Abbey to Saint-Michel de Cuxa Cloister, stands alongside natural wonders like the Orgues of Ille-sur-Têt, Marie-Madeleine Cave, Villefranche-de-Conflent Valley, or the Llech Gorges.
And everywhere, the Canigou watches over, majestic, symbol of Catalan pride.

Whether you are passionate about nature, history, gastronomy, or simply seeking true emotions, the Catalan Eden opens its doors wide to you.
Let yourself be surprised, let yourself be charmed… and write your most beautiful summer chapter here!