Located within the region of Languedoc-Rousillon, the departement of Pyrenees Orientales is popular with a wide variety of tourists; those who are looking for relaxing beach holidays, those looking to enjoy the mountain scenery and those wanting to appreciate the history of the region and its towns. Situated on the Spanish border and the Mediterranean coast, one of the area's biggest attractions is its excellent climate, with warm temperatures and days of sunshine from April to October. In the winter months, there is the opportunity to go skiing in the Pyrenees, though most of the bigger resorts are further west.
The Mediterranean coast of Pyrenees Orientales is home to a number of pleasant, but modern seaside resorts. Argeles-sur-Mer and Canet-en-Rousillon are the biggest towns on the coast, with plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and entertainment for families, such as water parks, fair grounds and summer festivals. The beaches here are sandy and they get very busy in the summer months. If you want a spot close to the sea, make sure you get an early start! The older town of Collioure still has its traditional fishing port, full of painted boats, a picturesque old town and even a castle. There are a couple of small sandy beaches if you can't manage a day without sunbathing, but there is plenty to keep you entertained in this pleasant seaside resort.
Head west into the Pyrenees and the landscape suddenly becomes much more dramatic, with the mountains looming up in front of you and narrow twisting roads, with steep drops into canyons and gorges, taking you higher and higher. To get the best views of the mountains – and to allow the designated driver to enjoy the scenery too – take the passenger train between Villefranche-de-Conflent and Mont-Louis. Passing across dizzyingly high bridges and through pitch-black mountain tunnels, you can enjoy some of the best views of the Pyrenees you can get without climbing them.
Experience a bit of Spain without crossing the border by visiting the enclave of Llivia. This tiny area, just 12 square kilometres in size, is completely surrounded by France, but inside everyone speaks Spanish, the products in the shop are from Spain and the cars even have Spanish number plates.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Pyrenees-Orientales? Then below is a selection of gites in Pyrenees-Orientales and villas in Pyrenees-Orientales that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
