CITY GUIDE MADELOC
TOP 10 MUST-SEES
1. Royal Castle
Facing the sea, this imposing fortress, once the residence of the kings of Majorca, has shaped the history of Roussillon for several centuries. Its ramparts, inner courtyards, and panoramic views offer a fascinating glimpse into a maritime and military past. Guided tours at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. – exhibitions venue and cultural events.
2. Notre-Dame-des-Anges Church
With its famous bell tower standing right by the water’s edge, the church is the symbol of Collioure. Originally a lighthouse converted in the 17th century, it offers a unique setting. Insert €1 to illuminate the Baroque altarpiece and appreciate its intricate details.
3. Saint Vincent’s Chapel
At the end of a small jetty, Saint Vincent’s chapel is a place steeped in Catalan traditions. Dedicated to the patron saint of winegrowers and sailors, it invites visitors to contemplate.
4. The Mouré & Port d’Avall district
The true charm of Collioure comes to life in this neighbourhood, with its colourful facades, narrow flower-lined streets., artists’ studios, shops and terraces overlooking the beach… Rue Bellevue with its pink house and former oldiers’ barracks. Rue des Caranques, the officers’ quarter, featuring a reproduction of Henri Matisse’s painting «Les Toits de Collioure».
5. Fauvism Trail
This open-air trail, featuring 17 reproductions, retraces the locations immortalised by Matisse and Derain. An original cultural stroll that allows you to discover Collioure through the colours and perspectives of the Fauvist painters.
Join a guided tour and browse the posters available at the Vitrine sur le Fauvisme shop.
6. Museum of Modern Art
Modern paintings, contemporary works and temporary exhibitions illustrate the deep connection between the village and artistic creation. Take a break in the cloister garden, a peaceful oasis. Guided tours and workshops in the shop.
7. Collioure Windmill
Perched high above the town, this 14th-century windmill overlooks the lush Pams Park. This walk offers a more rugged side of Collioure. On the way, be sure to stop at the Gloriette and admire one of the most beautiful views of Collioure Bay! The mill is open to visitors every Wednesday and Sunday from 10am to noon, from April to September.
8. Fort Saint-Elme
High above Collioure and Port-Vendres, the fort offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Mediterranean. Its impressive architecture and military history make it an mut-see attraction for discovering the region from a different perspective.
9. Desclaux & Roques Anchovies
For generations, these iconic family-run establishment have kept the tradition of Collioure anchovies alive. Through their artisanal expertise and tasting sessions, they showcase an essential part of the region’s culinary culinary heritage.
10. Wine estates & vineyards
Around Collioure, terraced vineyards slope down towards the sea and produce wines full of character. With a range of fresh rosés, bright whites and the famous Banyuls, the wine estates invite you to discover the true spirit of the Catalan terroir. Enjoy a guided tour at «Terre des Templiers» and benefit from 5% discount in the shop for Madeloc customers.
1COLLIOURE
With its authentic charm, colourful alleyways and dazzling light, the «City of Painters» embodies the mediterranean art of living. Once a fishing village, now a source of inspiration for artists, Collioure offers a unique atmosphere blending Catalan heritage, the sea and vineyards.
Enjoying a good meal
Here, the fine dining is just as much a treat as the scenery. With its Mediterranean cuisine and friendly atmosphere, Collioure is brimming with great places to eat: Le Jardin de Collioure, Casa Riquo, Le Netpune, Le 5eme Péché and La Cuisine Comptoir...
Have a drink
What could be better than a summer aperitive on a terrace?
For a breathtaking view of the bay, head to Balco del Mar. Fancy a drink with a view of the bell tower? Head to Chez Simone! And to sample organic, locally produced spirits with a Catalan twist, pop into Vermeil Spirits.
Treat yourself
Browse through a selection of authentic shops. La «Vitrine sur le Fauvisme» celebrates art with reproductions of paintings, colourful objects and creative workshops. For a touch of Mediterranean decor, discover Jouvences Decoration. It’s hard to resist the Catalan charm of the espadrilles at La Maison de Prosper or the local flavours of Le Paysan Catalan.
THERE IS NO BLUER SKY IN FRANCE THAN THAT OF COLLIOURE... I SIMPLY HAVE TO CLOSE THE SHUTTERS OF MY BEDROOM AND I HAVE ALL THE COLOURS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN RIGHT HERE AT HOME. HENRI MATISSE
OUR SECRETS SPOTS
La
Gloriette
On the path leading to the mill, this elegant Moorish-inspired pavilion built in the early 20th century offers one of the most beautiful views of Collioure Bay and the Côte Vermeille.
L’Ouille Beach
Accessible via the coastal path towards Le Racou, this unspoiled cove is a little slice of paradise! Once there, you have two options: a picnic or lunch at Batteries
Beach & Oli Beach
Heading towards Port-Vendres, these small, unspoiled coves with their crystal-clear waters offer a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
The Hermitage of Our Lady of Consolation
Sheltered by pine trees and hills, this former hermitage is home to a 16th-century chapel containing an altarpiece and maritime votive offerings. A timeless haven in the heart of nature, perfect for a picnic or as a starting point for hikes.
The Collioure market
On Wednesday and Sunday mornings, the market is one of the highlight of life in Collioure. Stroll amongst the stalls selling local produce and crafts. Scan me to discover what’s nearby
THINGS TO DO
Hop aboard the little train
A superb 45-minute journey through the vineyards and the hills overlooking Collioure, with exceptional views of the land and sea, until you reach the highest point at Fort SaintElme.
Download the app «Collioure, the journey begins»
A digital experience to explore the village in a different way following the footsteps of Henri Matisse and André Derain. Itineraries, anecdotes, points of interest and drone views… Discover the village at your own pace.
Join a guided tour
Discover the village from a new perspective as a local guide shares fascinating stories, hidden gems and cultural insights.
Water sports in the Mediterranean
Catamarans, glass-bottom boats, sailing trips or luxury cruises: the sea is the perfect setting for exploring the Côte Vermeille from the open water!
Hiking: the coastal path & Madeloc Tower
Amidst wild coves and breathtaking views, the coastal path reveals the full beauty of the coast. For the more adventurous, head for the heights at 652 m above sea level with a climb up Madeloc Tower!
2MAJOR EVENTS
Don’t miss Collioure’s events throughout the year!
VERMEILLE COAST SWIM RUN – EARLY JUNE
ANCHOVY FESTIVAL – EARLY JUNE
SAINT JOHN’S DAY FESTIVAL – 23 JUNE
SAINT VINCENT’S FESTIVAL – 14-18 AUGUST
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS & ILLUMINATIONS – DECEMBER
VERMEILLE COAST
Stretching from the southern edge of Argelès-sur-Mer to the Spanish border, the Côte Vermeille is dotting with charming harbours and seaside villages. Bathed in light, it takes its name from the reddish hues of its rocks, which also shape a unique wine-growing region, recognized under the Côte Vermeille PGI, producing red, rosé and white wines with a southern flair.
Port-Vendres 10 minutes
A commercial and fishing port still in operation, Port-Vendres embodies the energy of the sea. With its bustling quays, secluded coves and panoramic views, the town offers an authentic glimpse of the Catalan coastline.
Paulilles & Cap Bear sites
15 minutes
A former dynamite factory site that has been redeveloped into a protected nature reserve, Paulilles is home to a traditional boat workshop dedicated to Catalan maritime heritage and some magnificent, unspoiled beaches. The coastal path winds its way through schist and fragrant garrigue, leading to wild coves accessible only on foot (Ber nardi, Balanti, Santa Catarina) all the way to the majestic Cap Béar lighthouse.
Banyuls-sur-Mer 20 minutes
The birthplace of Aristide Maillol, Banyuls-sur-Mer is renowned for its natural sweet wine and its peaceful atmosphere. At the foot of the Albères mountains, discover the Maillol Museum, the artisanal vinegar distillery La Guinelle, the Terre des Templiers wine cellar, the Biodiversarium and the Mediterranean garden at Mas de la Serre.
Cerbère 40 minutes
The last town before Spain, Cerbère nestles at the end of a narrow cove between the sea and rugged hills. From the solar-powered lighthouse at Cap Cerbère, admire Cap Creus and the Costa Brava. Discover also the Belvédère du Rayon Vert hotel, a modernist masterpiece inspired by 1930s ocean liners, as well as a 250-metre underwater walkway that is unique in France.
PYRENEESORIENTALES
Nestled between the Mediterranean and the peaks of the Pyrenees, the department offers a mosaic of landscapes and atmospheres. Catalan heritage, charming villages and unspoilt nature combine to create a region of many facets.
Perpignan 30 minutes
For a half-day getaway to the heart of Catalan culture, head to Perpignan, dubbed the «center of the world» by Salvador Dalí. On the agenda: the narrow streets of the historic center, Castillet, the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, the Hyacinthe Rigaud Museum, the Hôtel Pams, Saint-Jean Baptiste Cathedral, Campo Santo… Why not extend your visit with a stop in Sant Vicens, a mecca for Catalan ceramics?
Caves Byrrh & Thuir 55 minutes
The world’s largest oak vat! In the heart of Thuir, the famous Byrrh Cellars (a listed industrial heritage site) tell the story of the iconic Catalan aperitif, which first appeared in the 19th century. Amidst impressive vats, industrial heritage and tastings, the tour immerses you in a unique world blending expertise and local traditions.
Ceret 40 minutes
Renowned for its lively market and its museum of modern art, Ceret charms visitors with its artistic and friendly atmosphere. Picasso, Chagall and Soutine all found inspiration here, making this small town a cultural hotspot!
Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt
40 minutes
Shaped by erosion over the centuries, the «Orgues d’Ille-sur-Tet» offer a spectacular and almost surreal landscape. These rock formations, which resemble fairy chimneys, make up one of the most astonishing natural sites in the department.
L’arrière-pays catalan
THEAMERICAN W ESTINCATALONIA
From Les Aspres to Conflent, the hinterland of the Pyrenees-Orientales reveals a succession of charming villages and unspoilt landscapes. Discover Villefranche-de-Conflent, Castelnou, Eus and the Abbey of Saint-Martin du Canigou, nestled in the heart of the Catalan mountains.
Lac des Bouillouses 2h15
An ideal playground for nature lovers, the Bouillouses area offers a multitude of activities amidst lakes, forests and mountain peaks. Hiking, mountain biking or high-altitude walks allow you to discover the spectacular landscapes of the Catalan Pyrenees.
Canet-Saint-Nazaire lake 30 minutes
Amidst reeds, lagoons and Mediterranean light, the Canet-Saint-Nazaire lagoon offers a peaceful and unspoilt landscape, a refuge for numerous bird species. Its authentic fishing village evokes the local maritime history and invites you on a stroll through time.
4COSTA BRAVA
Spend a day discovering the treasures of Spanish Catalonia.
he Costa Brava reveals unique landscapes stretching from Llança to Begur, via El Port de la Selva, the ruins of Empuries, Besalu...
Figueras 1 hour
The birthplace of Salvador Dali, Figueres is home to the astonishing Dali Theatre-Museum. Offering a true immersion into the world of the master of surrealism, this fascinating venue combines monumental works, optical illusions and displays that are as surprising as they are unforgettable. Book your tickets in advance!
Llança & Puerto de la Selva 1 hour
Fishing ports, whitewashed houses, small coves and the rugged landscapes of Cap Creus… These two villages retain the authentic spirit of Catalonia. A magnificent coastal path links the two villages in around 2h30 hours’ walk, winding its way past turquoise waters, coves and rocky outcrops.
Monastery of San Pere de Rodes 1h20
A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, this monastery stands in a spectacular natural setting, on the heights of Cap Creus. With its magnificent views overlooking the bay of Roses and the Pyrenees, its square tower, cloister and magnificent church, time seems to have stood still here.
Cadaques 1h30 minutes
With its white houses facing the sea and its charming narrow streets, Cadaques is one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava. Its bright, bohemian atmosphere has inspired many artists over the decades. Enjoy a «una clara» overlooking the sea, savour an «un arroz» and climb up to the Church of Santa Maria.
Portlligat 1h40
Just a few minutes from Cadaques, Portlligat is home to Salvador Dali’s former residence. Overlooking a small, peaceful bay, this unusual house reflects the Catalan artist’s unique and poetic world. Here too, don’t forget to book your tickets!
