The coast   The region’s coastline is split into two parts – the sandy coast and the rocky coast. From the northern border with the Aude down to Argelès sur Mer you will find long, wide, sandy beaches which are dotted with resorts popular with families and sunseekers. Aside from enjoying the warm Mediterranean waters and the beach, you can visit water parks and aquariums or get stuck into watersports such as windsurfing, sailing and waterskiing.

Further south from Argelès down to the border with Spain, the coastline turns rocky with breathtaking views of the vine-covered mountains dropping down to the sea. Pretty seaside towns can be found nestled in small bays along the Vermillion Coast, as it is known. The best-known of these is Collioure, where you can follow in the footsteps of artists such as Matisse and Picasso who both spent time here.

The mountains   Inland, the landscape changes dramatically and is dominated by the majestic peak of Mount Canigou. The mountains are home to a host of picturesque towns and villages, and are paradise for lovers of the outdoors with the best walking in Europe, cycling, horse riding, canyoning, abseiling and plenty more besides. Easily accessible ski resorts include Font Romeu and Les Angles in France and Setcases in Spain, not to mention the entire Principality of Andorra.

 

Homage to Catalonia The friendly and welcoming natives of this beautiful region see themselves as Catalan first and French second. The yellow and red striped Catalan flag flies all over the region and this strong sense of identity is reflected in everything from the delicious Mediterranean-influenced food to the bullfighting which takes place over the Bastille Day holiday.