Pyrénées-Orientales

Saint-Cyprien

This seaside resort town is popular for its long sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. It features a marina, shops, restaurants, and plenty of water sports activities.

Les Orgues d'Ille-sur-Têt

This unusual rock formation is a natural wonder that looks like an organ, hence its name. It's a great spot for a hike and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Villefranche-de-Conflent

This medieval walled town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and features narrow streets, historic buildings, and a stunning citadel that offers views of the surrounding mountains. It's a must-see destination for history and architecture buffs.

WELCOME TO Pyrénées-Orientales

Entry Into Department

largest city

Perpignan

AREA

4,116 km²

POPULATION

471,682

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Pyrenees Mountains

The Pyrenees Mountains are a natural wonder located in the southwestern part of France. This mountain range is home to numerous peaks, some reaching over 3,400 meters in height. The Pyrenees offer a diverse landscape of snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and sparkling lakes, making it a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and outdoor activities. It is also a region rich in wildlife and biodiversity, including the brown bear and the Pyrenean chamois.

Collioure

Collioure is a picturesque seaside town located on the Mediterranean coast of France. This charming town is known for its colorful buildings, winding streets, and medieval castle. Collioure has a rich artistic heritage, as it was a popular destination for many famous artists, including Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso, who found inspiration in its vibrant colors and landscapes.

Perpignan

Perpignan is the capital of Pyrénées-Orientales department, in southern France. This vibrant city has a rich history and cultural heritage, reflected in its stunning architecture and landmarks such as the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and the Castillet. Perpignan is also known for its annual Visa pour l'Image photojournalism festival.

Political

Economy and Government

Pyrénées-Orientales has a diverse economy with a mix of agriculture, tourism, and industry. The area is known for its production of fruits and vegetables, including cherries, peaches, and apricots, as well as its vineyards that produce high-quality wine. Fishing is also an important industry, with several ports along the Mediterranean coast.

Tourism is a major economic driver in Pyrénées-Orientales, with its picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural landscapes attracting visitors from around the world. The area is also home to several popular ski resorts in the Pyrenees.

The government of Pyrénées-Orientales is led by a departmental council that is responsible for managing local services, including transportation, social services, and public works. The council is made up of elected officials who serve six-year terms. The area is part of the Occitanie region and is represented in the National Assembly by five deputies. The local government works closely with the regional and national governments to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the area's inhabitants.

History

History and Culture

Pyrénées-Orientales has a rich history and culture that is influenced by its location on the border with Spain and its proximity to the Mediterranean. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has been ruled by the Greeks, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. In the Middle Ages, the region was part of the Kingdom of Majorca and was known for its flourishing trade and commerce.

The culture of Pyrénées-Orientales is characterized by a mix of French and Catalan traditions, reflecting the area's close ties with Catalonia. Catalan is still spoken by a minority of the population and is an important part of the area's cultural heritage. The area is also known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, including the Festa Major de Perpignan and the Feria de Céret.

Art and literature are also important parts of Pyrénées-Orientales' cultural heritage. The area was home to several famous artists, including Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse, and is known for its vibrant contemporary art scene. The region's literature is also celebrated, with several important writers and poets hailing from the area. Overall, Pyrénées-Orientales is a diverse and culturally rich region that is proud of its history and heritage.

HOTELS

Le Mas de la Fouque

Located in the heart of the Camargue, this luxury hotel offers spacious rooms, a beautiful outdoor pool, and a spa. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and take advantage of the hotel's location to explore the nearby nature reserves and beaches.

Hotel Madeloc

Situated in the charming town of Collioure, this boutique hotel offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a swimming pool, as well as easy access to the beach and the town's many art galleries and restaurants.

Le Château de Riell

Housed in a historic castle, this elegant hotel features luxurious rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa. Guests can take advantage of the hotel's beautiful grounds, which include a heated outdoor pool and a tennis court, or explore the nearby town of Prades and its many cultural attractions.

RESTAURANTS

Le Saint-Jacques

This Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of the historic town of Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet serves modern French cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The elegant dining room and outdoor terrace offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Le Fanal

Located in the picturesque seaside town of Collioure, this highly acclaimed restaurant serves inventive cuisine inspired by the local Catalan and Mediterranean traditions. The menu changes frequently to reflect the availability of local ingredients, and the wine list features a wide selection of regional wines.

La Galinette

Situated in the charming town of Perpignan, this intimate restaurant offers a creative take on traditional French cuisine, with a particular emphasis on fresh seafood. The small but carefully curated wine list features a variety of local and international wines, and the cozy dining room creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.