What to see by bike around Canet-en-Roussillon? The must-sees of Roussillon on two wheels
The Camping Ma Prairie is much more than a place to stay. It's an ideal base for cyclists in Canet-en-Roussillon to set off and discover Roussillon by bike — a territory where every pedal stroke reveals a new village, a new flavour or an unforgettable landscape. Here are the must-sees not to miss from Canet-en-Roussillon.
Collioure, the jewel of the Côte Vermeille (~30 km from Canet)
It's hard to talk about cycling in Roussillon without mentioning Collioure. This fishing village with its ochre and pink facades, dominated by its royal castle and lighthouse bell tower, is one of the most beautiful in France. Matisse, Derain and Picasso set up their easels here in the early 20th century and it's easy to understand why.
From Canet, the route passes through Argelès-sur-Mer via the Vélittorale, then follows the wild coastline towards Collioure. Beware: the last few kilometres are hilly on the foothills of the Albères. An e-bike is strongly recommended for this section. The reward? A breathtaking view of the bay, a seaside lunch and a traditional anchoïade enjoyed facing the sea.
Perpignan, the Catalan capital (~13 km from Canet)
Perpignan is accessible in less than an hour by bike from the campsite, via the Sainte-Marie-la-Mer greenway. The Catalan capital is well worth lingering over: the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, the Saint-Jean Cathedral, the Place de la Loge and the Saint-Jacques quarter are all unmissable.
On a practical note, unassembled bikes are accepted on regional TER trains — which means you can return by train if legs are tired or the children have given up.
Thuir and the Aspres: the Catalonia of vineyards (~25 km from Canet)
To the west, heading up the Perpignan-Thuir greenway, you enter the Aspres a land of gentle hills, vineyards and stone villages with shaded alleyways. Thuir is famous for its Caves Byrrh, the largest cooperative wine cellars in Europe, where you can visit the cellars and taste this famous Catalan aperitif.
The Canigou, the emblematic Pyrenean summit of Catalonia, stands out in the background throughout the route an image that accompanies every cycling outing in the Pyrénées-Orientales and never gets old.
Le Barcarès and the Roussillon lagoons (~10 km from Canet)
Closer and more accessible, Port-Barcarès is a great half-day destination for the whole family. At the harbour, the sight of fresh fish for sale whets the appetite, and the cycle path along the Pointe de Corrège offers a stunning view of the lagoon and Port-Leucate.
The Roussillon lagoons are a world of their own: calm water, raking light at the end of the day, flamingos occasionally settling in… Cycling along these preserved natural spaces has something soothing that you won't find anywhere else.
Markets and Catalan flavours: a gastronomic break at every stop
Cycling through the Pyrénées-Orientales is also a gastronomic adventure. Along your route, you'll come across Muscat de Rivesaltes producers, caves offering tastings of Maury or Banyuls, stalls of Roussillon peaches, sweet melons, marinated olives and sheep's cheese.
Cycling has this advantage: it perfectly justifies gourmet breaks. And at Ma Prairie, the departmental cycling map available at reception points out the best addresses along the routes.
Prepare your cycling stay with Ma Prairie
Whether you're travelling along the EuroVelo 8 or staying at Canet as a base, our team, trained and committed within the framework of the Accueil Vélo label, is here to help you organise your cycling outings from Ma Prairie advice on routes, riding conditions and services available along the way.
Don't hesitate to call before your arrival on +33 (0)4 68 73 26 17 to prepare your cycling programme.
Happy exploring Roussillon! 🚴♂️🏰🍇