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January 13, 2026

Tourism : what to do in Collioure ?

If there is a place where time seems to have stood still, it is definitely Collioure. Just thirty minutes from Perpignan, where the Pyrenees mountains meet the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, our small fishing village welcomes you with its vibrant colors and the scent of sea salt.

From the moment you step onto the harbor’s cobblestones, you will understand why Matisse and Derain fell in love with this unique light. Collioure is not just a place to visit; it is a place to feel. It is the sound of the waves against the Royal Castle walls, the salty taste of freshly prepared anchovies, and the gentle pace of life on a terrace in the shadow of the church. To help you enjoy every moment, we have prepared a selection of our 7 favorites, from historical heritage to secret alleys and Catalan flavors.

1. The Royal Castle of Collioure: A historical fortress

It is impossible to miss this massive building that separates the beach from the harbor. A former summer palace of the Kings of Majorque in the 13th century, the Royal Castle is a unique citadel in France. Its imposing structure reminds us that the town was long a strategic stronghold between the kingdoms of France and Aragon.

2. The Mouré district: The soul of Collioure

This is undoubtedly the most photogenic part of town. The Mouré, an old district for sailors and anchovy fishermen, is a labyrinth of pebble streets, narrow stairs, and flowery facades. This is where you can truly feel the authenticity of Catalan culture.

3. Notre-Dame-des-Anges Church and its iconic bell tower

A true symbol of the town, the Notre-Dame-des-Anges church has an immediately recognizable silhouette. Its famous pink-domed bell tower, which once served as a lighthouse to guide ships, seems to rise directly from the sea.

4. In the footsteps of the Fauves: Matisse and Derain

In 1905, the unique light of Collioure attracted two young painters: Henri Matisse and André Derain. Dazzled by the purity of the local colors, they decided to paint their emotions rather than reality. Fauvism was born, making this small fishing port the center of the art world at the time.

5. Fort Saint-Elme: A 360-degree panorama

For those who love hiking and grand landscapes, Fort Saint-Elme is a must. This star-shaped military fortress overlooks the bay from a steep hill. The rewards at the top are immense: a breathtaking view of the Albères mountains and the cliffs of the Côte Vermeille.

6. Beaches and relaxation on the Côte Vermeille

Collioure would not be complete without its characteristic beaches. Unlike the large sandy stretches of the plains, the beaches here are tucked away at the foot of monuments or in rocky coves, such as Boramar beach or the more intimate Saint-Vincent cove.

7. Gastronomy: Anchovies and local flavors

The local food is a pillar of Collioure's identity. The star product remains the anchovy, prepared by hand in traditional workshops. Enjoy them with a glass of local wine, like a white Collioure or a sweet Banyuls, and don't forget to try the "croquants de Collioure" (almond biscuits) at our breakfast buffet.

Practical Tips: Parking and Transportation

Collioure's popularity can make parking difficult in high season. The hotel Casa Païral offers private parking being paid. For a stress-free visit, we recommend arriving early or using the shuttle parking at "Cap Dourat." The ideal alternative is the train: the station is only a 10-minute walk from the harbor.

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