The most beautiful villages to visit around Perpignan

In the heart of the Catalan countryside, the Perpignan region is full of wonders to discover. Between mountains and beaches, these magnificent villages around Perpignan offer breathtaking scenery, a unique cultural wealth and unforgettable experiences. Let me take you on a journey of discovery through some of the most beautiful villages around Perpignan. What are the most beautiful villages around Perpignan? Here’s a short list nestling between the mountains and the sea, a magnificent coastline full of treasures.

What are the most beautiful villages to visit around Perpignan?

1. Castelnou, a medieval gem typical of the Catalan region

Perched on a rocky outcrop, the medieval village of Castelnou is without doubt one of the most beautiful villages around Perpignan in the Pyrénées Orientales. The cobbled streets, stone houses with red-tiled roofs and castle dating back to the 10th century make this place a real escape. Some of the must-sees in Castelnou in this commune of the Aspres region include:

• Castelnou castle
• Sainte-Marie-du-Mercadal church
• The watchtower
• The village fortifications

2. Collioure, between beach and history

Situated on the Vermeille coast, Collioure is a charming seaside resort that attracts many visitors thanks to its beaches, its historic heritage and its gentle way of life. Among the sites not to be missed are :

• The royal castle of Collioure
• Notre-Dame-des-Anges church
• Moulin de la Cortina
• Fort Saint-Elme

3. Villefranche-de-Conflent, a fortified town at the foot of the Canigou mountains

Classed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Villefranche-de-Conflent is a fortified medieval town at the foot of the Canigou massif. Founded in the 11th century, this town steeped in history will take you back in time with its narrow streets and ramparts. A must-see!

• The city walls
• Saint-Jacques church
• The Devil’s Tower
• Fort Libéria

4. Eus, a perched village at the gateway to the Têt valley

Situated between the sea and the mountains, Eus is a charming village nestling on a rocky outcrop with a breathtaking view over the Têt valley. Its Romanesque church of Saint-Vincent, its shady square and its stone houses with brown-tiled roofs make it a must-visit place around Perpignan. Among the sites to discover are

• Saint-Vincent church
• Notre-Dame-de-Triompho chapel
• The communal bread oven
• The belvedere offering a panoramic view of the Têt valley

5. Céret, city of the arts

Famous for its modern art museum, Céret is a dynamic, cultural town in the Tech valley. As well as the museum, you can visit the chapel of Saint-Roch, stroll along the plane tree promenade or admire the remains of the medieval ramparts. The must-sees in Céret are

• Céret Museum of Modern Art
• The Saint-Roch chapel
• The Promenade des Platanes
• The remains of the medieval ramparts

6. Mosset, a flower-filled village in the heart of Conflent

Situated near the Castellane gorges, Mosset is a picturesque village and one of France’s most beautiful villages in bloom. With its narrow streets, shady square and stone houses with colourful shutters, Mosset offers an idyllic setting for a relaxing day out, Catalan-style. Don’t miss a visit to

• Mosset fortified castle
• Saint-Julien-et-Sainte-Basilisse church
• The Pottery Garden
• The Fontaine des Amours, an exceptional bathing site comprising several natural pools carved out like bathtubs, each linked by small waterfalls.

Whether you’re looking for history, culture, nature or simply relaxation, the most beautiful villages around Perpignan will seduce you and offer you unforgettable experiences. Don’t hesitate to plan several days to explore these magnificent towns in the Pyrénées Orientales and take full advantage of their charm. After reading this short guide, you’ll be spoilt for choice, so don’t hesitate to check out our itinerary for visiting Perpignan to fine-tune your holiday in the Catalan countryside.