Collioure, the pearl of the Vermeille Coast

A true postcard-perfect setting, Collioure is undoubtedly one of the most iconic towns in the Pyrénées-Orientales. Rightly nicknamed the “jewel of the Côte Vermeille,” the town captivates visitors with its untamed natural beauty, vibrant colors, and unparalleled Mediterranean charm.

Every year, countless tourists come to marvel at this authentic village in the Occitanie region (formerly Languedoc-Roussillon). Located just a 30-minute drive from our campground, Collioure is a must-see destination during your Catalan vacation.

What to do and see in Collioure?

With its rich historical heritage, artistic culture, and culinary delights, the town has many wonders to offer.

Collioure, land of Art and History

Collioure is a town of undeniable charm, whose distinctive architecture reflects the Romanesque style of the Roussillon region. But what has made it world-famous is its exceptional light. Nicknamed the “City of Painters, ” the town and its picturesque harbor inspired the greatest masters of the 20th century: Pablo Picasso, Maurice de Vlaminck, Georges Braque, and Salvador Dalí all set up their easels here.

Above all, Collioure is known as the birthplace of Fauvism, the famous artistic movement launched right here in the early 20th century by André Derain and Henri Matisse.

  • Visitor tip: Take the “Chemin du Fauvisme, ” a walking tour through the village’s narrow streets that lets you discover reproductions of the artists’ works exactly where they were created. The Tourist Office also offers excellent guided tours from March through late October. Be sure to stroll through the many art galleries and studios in the town center, or make an enriching stop at the Museum of Modern Art.

Must-See Historic Monuments

Your visit to Collioure wouldn’t be complete without seeing its iconic landmarks that overlook the bay:

  • Notre-Dame-des-Anges Church: This is the symbol of Collioure! With its famous bell tower (which once served as a lighthouse) literally lapped by the waters of the Mediterranean, it is one of the most photographed monuments in France.

  • The Royal Castle of Collioure: An imposing fortress right on the water’s edge, it served as the summer residence of the Kings of Majorca. A visit offers an exceptional panoramic view of the bay and the surrounding countryside.

Local Cuisine: Anchovies and Distinctive Wines

The town is a major culinary destination in the region. It is world-renowned for its anchovies, prepared using traditional methods passed down from generation to generation. Don’t leave without sampling this local specialty at the fishing port! Looking up toward the hills, you’ll see the region’s magnificent vineyards, cultivated on steep terraces. They produce high-quality AOC wines, notably the famous naturally sweet wine of Banyuls and the wines of Collioure.

The Côte Vermeille: Breathtaking Landscapes

Collioure is the gateway to the Côte Vermeille, the spectacular coastline that stretches from Argelès-sur-Mer to the Spanish border. It is here that the Mediterranean Sea meets the Pyrenees, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

This unique geography offers a variety of experiences unlike anywhere else: you can go scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters in the morning, savor Catalan cuisine on a terrace at lunchtime, and set out on a hike along the mountain trails in the afternoon. It’s no wonder that this magical coastline attracts visitors from all over the world!

Every year, Collioure welcomes many tourists who come to discover this authentic village in the Occitanie region (formerly Languedoc-Roussillon). The town is famous for its anchovies and its fishing port, but it has much more to offer. The renowned Banyuls vineyards, cultivated on terraces, produce excellent AOC wines.

The Côte Vermeille stretchesfrom Argelès-sur-Mer to the Spanish border. Where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Pyrenees mountains, the views are breathtaking. You can go scuba diving in the morning, savor Catalan cuisine at lunchtime, and go hiking in the mountains in the afternoon. It’s no wonder this coastline attracts visitors from all over the world.

How do you get to Collioure from the campground?

The advantage of staying at the Ma Prairie campground is that you’re ideally located for a day trip to Collioure.

  • By car: The town is easily accessible via the D11 road and then the D914 expressway (toward Route du Pla de las Fourques). Allow about 30 minutes for the drive.

  • The scenic route: You can also reach your destination via the D814, which runs along the waterfront. The trip is a bit longer, but the breathtaking views of the coast make it well worth the detour!

  • Without a car: If you’ve chosen to come to the campground without a vehicle or want to avoid summer parking hassles, Collioure is very easily accessible by public transportation (local bus network or TER train from the Perpignan station).

After a day of exploring the Côte Vermeille, return to the tranquility of our 4-star resort and take a dip in our heated pool!