Maison Madonna
Our guide to the local secret gems...
Towns & Villages
Castelnou
A small village in the South of France, Castelnou is a town built on the side of a hill with barely fifty inhabitants. Counted among the most beautiful French villages, Castelnou offers a wonderful little journey back in time. So as not to miss anything, we have put together a list of the must-see places to visit in Castelnou.
Dominated by its castle dating from the 10th century, the city is a real little moment of escape, discovering monuments of yesteryear and offering a beautiful stroll inside the village fortifications.
The best way to visit Castelnou is to take a walk in the village. A short walk, as the number of streets is limited, but sporty because you will be climbing! The first thing we notice is the excellent conservation of the fortifications. It feels like the Middle Ages, when the village had to defend itself from a possible external invasion!
The most remarkable building is the Millars Gate, still flanked by its two monumental towers. It symbolizes the entrance to the old village surrounded by its ramparts. At the bend of the promenade, we discover small architectural treasures, flowered houses, rare shops and restaurants. A village which has retained all the charm of medieval times.
Perpignan
Nicknamed “a beautiful Catalan”, Perpignan conceals many treasures. Located not far from the Spanish border, it allows for an exotic stay, between sea and mountains. With its idyllic Mediterranean climate and its 300 days of sunshine per year, it has everything to seduce! With a strong identity, there are many wonders to see in Perpignan: buildings with sumptuous architecture, first-rate museums, life with an Iberian flavor... it's impossible to be bored there!
With no less than 34 buildings classified as “historical monuments” and 19 classified as “cultural monuments”, Perpignan is a real open-air museum. An emblematic figure of the city, the Castillet, built in the 14th century, marks the entrance to the city center. The brave will climb the 142 steps to the top and will be rewarded with a superb view. Then go for a stroll through the streets, bordered by charming old and remarkably preserved houses.
Coulloire
The charm of the Eastern Pyrenees is multiple and the small town of Collioure is a perfect example. In its colorful streets, we discover reproductions of famous painters, notably Matisse and Derain. You can also stroll around the port with its authentic beauty, or visit the Royal Castle. Culture, walks and traditions, this is the cocktail that makes Collioure a must-see around Perpignan!
Restaurants
Le 5eme peché
A Tokyo chef passionate about French food and wine... and his little restaurant in old Collioure: when Japan meets Catalonia! So of course, we enjoy fusion cuisine here, where ultra-fresh fish is king.
Collioure| 04.68.98.09.76
La Ballette (1 Michelin star)
Laurent Lemal gives the full measure of his talent in this idyllic place which overlooks the harbor and the beautiful Collioure with its feet in the water. Its original cuisine based on local produce highlights all the richness of the Catalan country, with a predilection for finely crafted land and sea combinations ("sea celery"; oysters from the Leucate pond with basil and Bellota palette; red mullet with smoked green onions, octopus black pudding and fish soup reduction with chorizo spices...). His wife Julie creates delicate desserts. To personalize the experience, the menu is tailor-made with the dining room manager, who comes to see each guest at the start of the meal. A great success.
Collioure | 04.68.82.05.07
Mamma – Les Roches Brunes
Perched on the rock, the Roches Brunes are a real eye-catcher: the hotel overlooks the sea and offers a breathtaking view of the Royal Castle of Collioure, just opposite. At the restaurant, chefs Denny Imbroisi and Antoine Cormoretto create a charming menu, which brilliantly brings together Italy and local production. It's fresh, it's good, the prices are low... To discover urgently.
Collioure | 04.11.30.07.55 | hotel-lesrochesbrunes.com
La côte Vermeille
A new lease of life on La Côte Vermeille, a local institution taking over in spring 2022. It still offers a breathtaking view of the port, particularly from the beautiful terrace located upstairs. Seafood cuisine with Mediterranean recipes (locally caught fish) mixed with discreet touches of modernity.
Port-Vendres | 04.68.88.85.05 | restaurantlacotevermeille
Le Cèdre
Here, the cuisine highlights the undeniable richness of the Catalan region and varies freely with the seasons: impossible to get tired of! As for the setting, it calls for daydreaming: the bay window overlooks the beautiful terrace and, beyond, the port and the sea... This Cedar does not lack attractions.
Port-Vendres | 04.68.82.62.20 | restaurant-jardinsducedre.com
Les Clos de Paulille
Between vineyards and sea, a stone's throw from the beach, the site leaves you dreaming; Maison Cazes – great winegrowers in the region – has taken the reins of this 90 ha estate, to delight our senses. The regional recipes use only local products. Don't miss the superb terrace facing the vineyards...
Port-Vendres | 04.68.81.49.79 | lesclosdepaulilles.com
La Gallinette (1 Michelin star)
Such regularity is always a pleasure to see – and to taste. Michelin-starred since 2004, this beautiful house is the haunt of Christophe Comes, a multi-talented chef. A locavore from the start, he raises vegetables and fruits (citrus fruits and tomatoes, in particular) in his personal vegetable garden (six hectares, which is better?) which will punctuate his cuisine. But he doesn't shy away from celebrating local fish either! Add to that excellent value for money, €28 for a full lunch menu, you get an address that should not be missed under any circumstances...
Perpignan | 04.68.35.00.90 | restaurant-galinette.com
Le 17
Attached to the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, this restaurant enjoys a superb paved and shaded courtyard, nestled against the church. A member of the Culinary College of France, the chef, who is very keen on the seasons, shows a certain taste for fusion cuisine and exotic flavors. He favors fish and local products. A friendly address.
Perpignan | 04.68.38.56.82 | facebook.com
The Divil
Between Castillet and the prefecture, a specialist in fine matured meats: the customer chooses his piece (rib of beef, entrecôte, sirloin), which is then weighed, grilled and accompanied by good homemade fries. 300 wine references to wash it all down.
Perpignan | 04.68.34.75.73 | restaurant-le-divil-66.com
La Passerelle
Marine decor and modern furniture: this is how this house sits on the edge of the canal. At the auction, the chef unearths good Mediterranean fish which he adds with finesse to his plates, while the owner provides attentive service. Good choice of regional wines.
Perpignan | 04.68.51.30.65
Beach clubs
La Perla, Le Barcarès
Rue des Catalans, 66420 Le Barcarès
10am-2am | 06.87.12.23.70 | facebook.com/laperlaplage
Behind the Bell Tower, Collioure
Beach, Rue Saint-Vincent, 66190 Collioure
10am-12am | 04 48 89 08 72 | facebook.com/DerriereLeClocher
The Maya Club, Torreilles
Bd de la Plage, 66440 Torreilles
10am-12am | 06 30 33 91 | lemayaclub.com/fr
Do & See
Château Vicomtal, Castelnou
In Catalan, Castelnou means “new castle”. The village owes its name to its imposing castle, which has dominated the city since the 10th century and is a must to visit in Castelnou. Destroyed and rebuilt many times, its current appearance has nothing to do with the initial one which is unknown to us. Symbol of the village, it offers a superb panorama of the valley.
Castelnou Tower
Historically, the tower is linked to the castle. In the Middle Ages, its role was to signal the arrival of strangers with smoke. Located at the top of a hill, it is easily accessible after a short walk outside the village. More than the tower, it’s the panorama from the summit that we appreciate the most!
Castelnou picturesque market
Visiting Castelnou in summer without going to the picturesque market is like missing out! Every summer Tuesday, local producers and artisans come to exhibit their diverse and varied products.
There you can find honey, olive oil and organic bread mixed together, as well as goat cheese. As for the artisans, they exhibit products in leather, glass or iron. A real discovery of the region’s know-how.
Church of Saint Mary of Mercadal, Castelnou
Dating from the 13th century and built outside the fortifications, the church, which owes its name to the medieval market, is one of the must-see places to visit in Castelnou. Remarkably preserved, the current building differs very little from the original one.
It is famous for housing a sundial engraved in the rock, above the entrance door, as well as some masterpieces of Baroque art. The interior of the church can be visited by appointment at the town hall.
Local gastronomy
It's difficult to visit Castelnou without succumbing to the region's culinary specialties! If the village itself has no specialty strictly speaking, the small region of Aspres, around Canigou and which is home to Castelnou, has a plethora of them. Examples include bunyete, a kind of donut, cargolade, a dish made from snails, Catalan turrón, a confectionery, and finally Byrrh, a spirit. More broadly, it is possible to taste Catalan specialties (Catalan cream, Catalan chicken, etc.).
Les orgues d’Ille-sur-Tet
Chemin de Régleilles, 66130 Ille sur Tet
04.68.84.13.13
Do you want something original to visit in Castelnou? Meet at the Orgues d’Ille-sur-Tet, astonishing formations of sand and clay, located a few kilometers from the village. Over the centuries, erosion has brought these geological curiosities together to a church organ, hence their name. It’s also a good idea for a walk since it’s possible to walk all around!
Hiking in Canigou
Among the activities to do in Castelnou, hiking is the most popular. No, not only in the village despite the difference in altitude, but towards the Canigou peak, located very close by. Many trails lead to the summit. If all are, let's admit, difficult, the view from the heights is breathtaking and a great reward for the efforts.
Take the famous yellow train
To appreciate the diversity of the Eastern Pyrenees, there is nothing better than getting around. And for this, the yellow train serves 22 stations between Villefranche-de-Conflent and Latour de Carol. Each of them will offer a unique spectacle to the traveler and we particularly recommend that of Bolquère, nestled at more than 1,500 meters above sea level.
Visit Villefranche-de-Conflent
Before boarding the yellow train, we recommend that you take the time to stroll through the streets of Villfranche-de-Conflent. The medieval city is home to the ramparts of the industrious Vauban, but also forts, small typical streets and multiple shops which continue the tradition of making fabrics or ceramics, an activity well anchored in the areas around Perpignan.
Stroll in the bay of Paulilles
For nature lovers, Paulilles Bay is a magical place. The paths that navigate between vineyards and pine forests are a real invitation to travel slowly, at a human pace. You can also stop on a small beach for a delicious moment of relaxation or prefer to visit the museum area to glean information about local life.
Diving in the Banyuls nature reserve
Between Banyuls-sur-mer and Cerbère, posidonia, corals, groupers and other barracudas calmly await divers passionate about underwater life. In total, no less than 1,700 animal and plant species thrive in these very special waters. A unique reserve of its kind, ideal for raising children's awareness of the protection of living things, and for an introduction to diving.
Breathe the fresh air of Lake Bouillouses
At almost 2,000 meters above sea level, Lac des Bouillouses is the highest altitude lake in all the Pyrenees. If you are a hyperactive athlete, try climbing, fishing or looking for this shy and magnificent animal that is the chamois. But if you prefer relaxation, the banks of the lake will welcome you with all the necessary bucolic comfort!
Take a day or two to visit Tautavel
The village of Tautavel is known primarily for its Prehistory museum, an essential corollary to the Caune de l'Arago cave. It was here that the bones of the man considered at the time to be the oldest known European were discovered. But Tautavel is also the cradle of the Gouleyrous gorges, one of the most impressive natural sites around Perpignan. Two days will be a minimum to contemplate all these beauties!
Admire the fortress of Salses-le-Château
If there is a village that exudes extraordinary power in the Eastern Pyrenees, it is Salses-le-Château. Its 15th century fortress, with its keep, its moat and its 12 meter thick walls will certainly make you feel very small. Then take a little walk in the adjacent woods to relax and the day will be perfect!
Indulge in the sweetness of life in Céret
The department's sub-prefecture offers numerous possibilities to the traveler. Art lovers will visit the Museum of Modern Art, where Chagall, Picasso and Matisse are exhibited, strollers will admire the Catalan influences which mark the city's architecture, while revelers will come to experience the feria and the festival of cherry!
The Byrrh cellars, Thuir
A family saga.
You will learn how the Violet brothers, inventive and pioneers, had the idea of making, in 1866, a beverage based on wine and medicinal plants and became the bosses of one of the largest companies of the 20th century. The company of all records!
The largest cellar in the world with the largest oak vat in the world!
Villa Palauda, Thuir
It was Lambert Violet, son of Simon Violet, founder of Caves Byrrh, who wanted to be as close as possible to the family business and commissioned this magnificent villa in the purest art deco style from the French architect Bertrand in 1891.
This residence, which remained in the Violet family until 2019, is located in the middle of a wooded park with rare tree species. It now belongs to the Thuir town hall.
Place Gabriel Péri “Royal Square”, Thuir
Opposite the church, on your right, you will find Place Gabriel Péri, which at the time was called “La Place Royale”. The fountain there dates from 1777 and was built to supply the center of the city with drinking water. This royal square was the center of the city in the 13th century.
Notre Dame de la Victoire Church, Thuir
The church is located on a hillock, which originally (around the year 900) was a small wooded hill where the statue of the Virgin which is inside the church had been hidden. As early as 957 AD, we find mentions of the small church of Thuir which was called Saint-Pierre.
The current building was inaugurated in 1816 and renamed “Notre Dame de la Victoire” in honor of the said Virgin.
La Cellera, Thuir
You will find on the right of the church, a large circular square: La Cellera. Imagine around this square, the original chapel, the castle of the Lord of Thuir, then some small houses, different barns, stables, stables and sheepfolds built all around. Inside the ramparts which surrounded the mound. La Cellera is the sacred space surrounding the church on which the cellars which give it its name are built.
Markets
Thuir
The traditional market is held every Saturday morning,
Place de la République is invaded by numerous stalls. You can find everything there: fruits and vegetables, meats, fish, shellfish, cheeses, clothes, jewelry, books, decorations.
Among which are a large number of local producers and artisans who reflect the Aspres terroir.
Castelnou
From June 28 to September 13
Every Tuesday in the summer, around twenty producers' stalls present the production of the Catalan Country. Olive oils, organic breads and honeys, goat cheeses and fruit juices take place. This market recommended for locavores is all about ultra-freshness. We also meet leather, glass and iron artisans, with demonstrations.
Ceret
A true living picture, the Céret market invites you every Saturday morning to discover all the colors and flavors of Catalonia! Good humor and conviviality await you in this vast market of around 170 street traders. This market, mainly food, will have enough to fill your plates with local products during your vacation! Certainly one of the most beautiful markets in the Eastern Pyrenees
Ille sur Têt
The Ille sur Têt producers’ market. Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Beauty & Wellness
Hairdressers:
Floriane Prieto Haristylist
04 68 86 06 06
8 Bis Boulevard Léon Jean Grégory
Thuir
Klein Coiffure
09 75 77 58 65
3 Rue du Souvenirs
Thuir
Excel Coiffure
04 68 08 91 75
1 Avenue de la Côte Vermeille
Thuir
Massage
Anne-Karine comes to Domaine Madrona, by appointment, to give you massages from 65 euros.
Reservation in advance needed.
For the kids
Reservations in advance recommended for all of theseAqualand Saint Cyprien
www.aqualand.fr (purchase tickets)
Avenue des Champs de Neptune
Les Capellans district
SAINT-CYPRIEN BEACH
04.68.21.49.49
Less than 20 minutes from Perpignan, Aqualand Saint-Cyprien offers a fun festival.
With its 15 exceptional attractions over more than 7 hectares.
The destination is slipping from summer. Let yourself be carried away by a wave… of freshness… of delirium… of thrill!
The Canyoning Park
7 Copernicus Dead End
66700 Argeles sur Mer
08.90.21.00.15
Adventure is adventure. Imagine going canyoning with your family, and in complete safety. The Argelès Canoyoning Park brings 100% more real-than-life sensations to young and old. Everyone has their own suit, their shoes, their helmet, their harness? Let's go !
14 swimming pools, jumps, slides, abseiling, waterfalls, rope ladders, and a 100-meter zip line that ends with a great splash! » in a large pool… Children are accepted from 8 years old.
The African reserve of Sigean
19 Chemin Hameau du lac
11130 Sigean
04.68.48.20.20
300 hectares and nearly 4000 animals. Many of them live freely, in the wild, in this reserve. You have two ways to do the safari tour. By car, the 7.5 km journey takes around an hour. On foot, allow at least 3 hours.
Buffaloes, giraffes, lions, white rhinos, warthogs… Alligators, pelicans, the entire African savannah is there. Designed picnic areas welcome adventurous families. An afternoon we won’t soon forget.
Kap’oupaKap
66500 EUS
06.88.48.06.45
Tree climbing, Ventreglisse, Kap’warrior, Déval’mountain
Argeles Adventure
Forest acrobatic park
7 Impasse Copernic-Plage Nord
66700 Argelès sur mer
04.68.95.41.66
www.paradise-aventures.com
17 courses, 130 workshops, 6 difficulty levels
The Grandes Canalettes caves
Road to Vernet les Bains
66500 Villefranche de Conflent
04.60.05.20.20
The Canalettes caves, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, promise a great family day. Once you have crossed the two porches, the journey begins in a spectacular mineral world up to the Balcony of Darkness, a belvedere in the form of an apotheosis (take a sweatshirt, it is a constant 14°).
To learn while having fun, a quiz is available at reception. Sound and light show, and numerous activities take place throughout the year. Welcome to the hidden world!
La C1ave Rouge
Live Escape Game
The Mas du Domaine de Montcalm
Road to Saint Féliu
66300 Thuir
07.68.85.30.90
Have you ever experienced the escalation of intense emotions that an escape game provides?
Harness the power of collective interaction and enjoy a unique experience!
Immersed in the heart of an authentic wine cellar, you are on the trail of a magical elixir with forgotten powers...
To protect its secrets, Claude Castera, its mysterious creator, has filled his cellar with traps and enigmas...
Enter the Vito Quest universe, find the elixir of life and leave the room, you have one hour!
ONIRIA
Aquarium
2 Boulevard de la Jetée
66 140 Canet en Roussillon
04.68.86.72.92
www.oniria.fr
A unique sensory adventure!
Explore our sensation rooms to understand the metamorphoses of water thanks to unusual experiences and discover virtual sea monsters that are larger than life!
Paradise Golf
Mini golf
5 Impasse Copernic – North Beach
66700 Argeles sur Mer
06.73.77.71.35
2 18-hole courses on synthetic turf, 3500m2 of exotic plants between rivers and waterfalls.
At night the lights illuminate the park and the evenings become magical!
Gameside
7 Rue des Cerdagne
66280 Saleilles
06.43.15.72.99
www.game-side.fr
Via ferrata
07.82.92.05.65
Practice a fun and secure route.
Climb a pink marble gorge above the Têt river and for the more curious, explore the meanders of the cave.
Attached to the harness by a special hook, you will follow the lifeline cable, from one rock to another, overcoming obstacles.
Jet ski
Porte de Plaisance
66750 Saint Cyprien
06.73.18.23.80
With or without a license
Nautical Ski Lift
www.tsjwakepark.com
06.67.83.56.62
Wakeboard – Water Ski – Water Jump
Paintball
7 Impasse Copernic – North Beach
66700 Argeles sur Mer
07.60.29.85.80
www.starkh-paintball.com
Paintball for children and adults
Nocturne Night Fight
Hiking
Roc de Mallorca and Camélas loop from Castelnou
4h30 – 14.7km
Good physical condition required. Easily accessible trails.
Possible departure from Domaine Madrona
Castelnou – View on the castle
1h30 – 5km
Easy, all fitness levels. Easily accessible trails.
Possible departure from Domaine Madrona
Chapel of Sant Marti de Camélas
2h00 – 6km
A must-see hike. All levels. Easily accessible trails.
Possible departure from Domaine Madrona
Mount Canigou
The Canigou peak is the high eastern summit of the Pyrenees chain, on the Canigou massif. It is located in Conflent, department of Pyrénées-Orientales, and peaks at 2,784 meters above sea level.
Adventures
Must be
reserved in advance!Thermal canyoning of Thuès-les-bains
Sulfurous waters at +35°
06.89.04.58.92
www.canyoning-experience.com
Canyoning & Caving
Jérôme DURBET
06.22.45.82.02
www.ex-pyr.com
Canyoning, Rafting & Hydrospeed
06.19.36.16.47
www.aventure-active.com
Canyoning & Waterjumping
04.68.95.41.66
www.paradise-aventures.com
Canyoning, Quad, Paintball & Rafting
06.13.01.18.36
Rodeo Raft
04.68.20.98.86
www.rodeoraft.com
Paragliding
Paragliding66
www.parapente66.com
07.69.29.61.05
Please call first to check restaurants and museums are open, and check the relevant government guidance before travelling.
No responsibilty can be accepted by Scott Williams for any issues that may arise as a result of the enclosed recommendations and information.