Collioure
Collioure is a great place for a day trip. It is also a place you can revisit time and again. Its history goes back to Greek and Roman times and it was once home to the Templars. Being only 26 kms from the Spanish border the Catalan influence is all around. The 14th century castle the Chateau Royal and the 17th century church Eglise Notre Dame des Anges dominate the pretty harbour. The belfry tower of the church was once used as a “lighthouse” for the village. Collioure’s ownership changed over the centuries being owned by France or Spain until the treaty of 1659 when it was finally placed under French rule along with all of Roussillon.
There are numerous seafood restaurants around the harbour and for those with a sweet tooth excellent ice cream parlours. Additionally there are several boutique shops both along the harbour and in the cobbled streets leading away from it.
There are 3 pleasant beaches which are sheltered and therefore good for swimming. You can take boat trips in the summer.
The only issue is that parking may be difficult in peak periods. Best to get there early.
To find out more visit the official Collioure website.
© 2009 Maureen and Ian George