Vallespir is a region in the Pyrenees, next to the Spanish border. Home to many people who consider themselves Catalan rather than French, the region is different culturally from most parts of France, with its own cuisine, festivals and even language. However, many people will also speak French, so tourists don't need to worry about communicating! The scenery is one of the major selling points of the Vallespir, which is in the heart of the Pyrenees mountains. Horse riding and hiking are both popular ways of exploring the countryside in the summer, while in the winter months, many of the hills and mountains are used by locals and visitors for skiing.
One of the most beautiful towns in Vallespir is Arles-sur-Tech, in the spectacular Tech valley. Surrounded by high peaks, deep gorges and fast-flowing rivers, the town itself is home to some interesting and charming historic buildings, such as a tiny church built in the 10th century and a 13th century abbey. The Abbey of Sainte Mairie is full of religious artworks, including frescoes in the church, and is also home to an ancient sarcophagus, where the bones of saints are supposed to lie. The legend says that since the bones were placed there, pure water has flown from the sarcophagus. Even today, the water is regularly distributed to members of the church and visiting pilgrims.
Just outside Arles-sur-Tech is Les Gorges de la Fou, supposedly the narrowest gorge in the world. It can only be navigated on foot, along a metal walkway that takes around two hours to complete. At times, the sheer walls are only one metre apart, which can be quite claustrophobic. However, the view back down the gorge when you reach the end is well worth the effort.
The Vallespir area is well known for its “bear festivals”, though the most famous takes place in the tiny village of Prats-de-Mollo. Men and women dressed in skins, representing the bears, come into the village from the surrounding forest “attacking” bystanders. Later in the day the hunt begins, with the rest of the village chasing those dressed as bears back into the hills. The carnival lasts for three days, featuring other events such as parades and dances, and lots of food and wine! The festival takes place in February, well outside the usual tourist season, but if you are in the area during winter, the event is well worth attending.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Vallespir? Then below is a selection of gites in Vallespir and villas in Vallespir 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.
