Collioure fully deserves its nickname Pearl of the Catalan Country. Ancient fishing village nestled in a bright bay, it marks the meeting between the Mediterranean and the last foothills of the Pyrenees.

In the background are the towers of la Madeloc and of said Massane, stone sentinels overlooking the Vermeille coast. This spectacular natural setting gives Collioure a unique atmosphere, between wild reliefs and maritime gentleness.

The Royal Castle, witness to the Kings of Majorca

The Royal Castle of Collioure constitutes one of the major monuments of the city. Listed as a Historic Monument, it was the residence of the Kings of Majorca in the 13th century before being transformed into a fortress.

His visit allows you to better understand the strategic history of Collioure, long coveted for its maritime position. From its ramparts, the panoramic view of the port, the colorful roofs and the Notre-Dame-des-Anges church is remarkable.

An emblematic port and Catalan boats

The small port of Collioure remains one of the most photographed on the Catalan coast. We still observe the traditional Catalan boats, heritage of the village's maritime past.

The church tower, old converted medieval lighthouse, reflected in the water, offering an image that has become iconic.

In the footsteps of the painters

At the beginning of the 20th century, Collioure attracts Henri Matisse and André Derain. Their stay marks the birth of Fauvism. The intense colors of Mediterranean light profoundly influence their work.

Even today, galleries, workshops and painters perpetuate this artistic tradition. Strolling through the narrow, mostly pedestrian streets allows you to feel this creative energy.

Catalan market and lifestyle

Every Wednesday and Sunday morning, the Collioure market livens up the central squares. Local producers and artisans present the specialties of the Catalan country : sun-drenched fruits, anchovies from Collioure, Roussillon wines and Mediterranean sweets.

It is a privileged moment to discover the gastronomic richness of the region.

Collioure day and night

Visiting Collioure by day allows you to appreciate the contrasts between turquoise sea and colorful facades. At nightfall, l’ambiance change : the platforms light up, the terraces fill up and the city reveals a more intimate atmosphere.

Two faces, two atmospheres, for the same destination.

An essential stopover in the Pyrénées-Orientales

Collioure fits perfectly into a stay in the Pyrénées-Orientales. Between heritage, sea ​​and mountain, it offers a luminous interlude a few kilometers from Albères and the Domaine Pedra Llampada.

After the bustle of the port and the lively streets, it is nice to find a more peaceful environment, surrounded by nature, to extend the Catalan experience at a different pace.