Discover Collioure
Day 1: Discover Collioure
For this vacation experience, we take you to the must-see area of the Pyrenées-Orientales.
It’s impossible to come here without spending one or more days with us.
Collioure is a very touristy and colorful town that attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Venture down the narrow pedestrian streets of Collioure on the Côte Vermeille. You’ll notice many architectural details that bear witness to different occupations over the centuries.
Among the flower-filled balconies and colorful facades, you won’t want to miss the old medieval wall, a reminder of the town’s historic past.
Whether you go there in the morning to greet the fishermen, at lunchtime for a gourmet break or in the evening to admire the lights of the bay, the port of Collioure islively at every moment of the day. It’s also a renowned site for painters.
For a historic family visit, head for the Château Royal de Collioure dating from the 13th century, listed in 1922. And if today you have to look up to see it, that wasn’t the case until the 17th century. It is said that the architect Vauban had the upper town of Collioure razed to the ground to build the outer wall and glacis. Now there’s no hesitation! Take on the challenge of France’s last medieval royal castle and visit this multi-faceted monument. From the former summer residence of the Kings of Mallorca, to a medieval fortress and finally a prison for the refugees of the “Retirada” (retreat of the defeated Republicans at the end of the Spanish Civil War), its history promises a great journey through time.
– From the campsite, take the direction to Argelès, exit Collioure ” la Corniche “, follow the Corniche ( travel time 25 min )
– Don’t wake up too late to guarantee a parking space.
– 2022 rate between €0.80 and €1.30 per half-hour.
– Full Price 2022 at the Château royal €7
As you stroll along, be sure to stop off at one of the seafront bars, restaurants and shops to sample Collioure’s famous anchovies and Catalan specialties.
Let’s head for the little Collioure train
The valiant little train tackles the climb to the heights of Collioure via the chemin de la GalèreNoon up to the Fort Saint Elme ” .
Through the terraced vineyards to the foot of the fort, the white and yellow wagons pause to admire the panoramic view that stretches from the Collioure coastline and bay to the Roussillon plain and the Pyrenees.
Then it’s back down to Port-Vendres, and along the quays of this small commercial port. The return journey takes you along the cornice, with breathtaking views of the rocky coastline and its coves.
Meet us at Place du 8 mai 1945 (near the post office) for a 45-minute stroll.
Departures are every hour, or every 30 minutes in high season.
Prices:
– Adults: €9
– Children (aged 3 to 11): €6
– Free for children under 4
After a leisurely ride on the little train, enjoy a family swim on the Collioure beach. Make sure you bring appropriate footwear, as Collioure’s beach is made up of galées.
Where to eat good food :
- Restaurant Le Vauban: set menus featuring refined French dishes with international accents and vegetarian options. A place with a relaxed atmosphere. Prices between €14 and €19
- Restaurant La Casa Linga: Mediterranean cuisine, between €15 and €30
- Restaurant La Frégate Collioure: European and Catalan cuisine. Prices between €17 and €21