Places to visit:
Arles sur Tech is situated at the centre of Vallespir and has many assets. During the Middle Ages Arles grew with the development of a Benedictine Abbey. Visiting the Abbey and its 13th Century Cloister is a must for history enthusiasts. The Gorges de la Fou, about 5 minutes from Arles is a natural crevasse where you can experience the beauty of Stalagmites & Stalactites. Many local festivals take place throughout the year in the area. During August a Medieval traditional event takes place in Arles over a weekend. The village is transformed back in time to the Medieval times. The tradesmen and women of the time, jugglers, fire eaters and market stalls fill the streets. Should you wish to dress up, you can join in the festivities. It has a true carnival atmosphere. Theatre acts and puppet shows together with actors dressed in costume re-enact scenes that might have happened in the Middle Ages. Knights jousting and performing competitions make it all a very memorable day to experience.
Villages in the region.:
Prats de Mollo is the second town of the region. It is known for its beautiful surroundings. The church of Saint Juste and Raffine built in the year 1245 is worth a visit. From June to August Fort Lagarde has large daily events where they display Cavaliers in costume from the 14th century reliving the ambiance of the daily living and fighting. Stunts are performed with horses and displays with muskets and cannons give it a superb sense of reality.
Amelie les Bains which is approximately 15 minutes from Arles is renowned for its natural beauty with its many health spas generated from warm springs. Every summer the village holds a folkloric festival celebrating the traditional dances from around the world. In September they participate in 'Fesibanyes' (bull games). For evening entertainment there are many restaurants, cafes and a casino which provides plenty of entertainment.
SEE OTHER PROPERTY REF-66271 FOR A BEACH HOLIDAY-DUAL LOCATIONS CAN BE ARRANGED
Towards Spain:
About 10 minutes from Le Cerisier is a village called St Laurent de Cerdans. It has an 18 hole golf course and the village was the main producer of the espadrille sandals. When visiting the museum of art , it is also possible to view the traditional reconstruction of making the espadrilles with tools of bygone days and trades. A visit to the Toiles de Soleil is a factory still making traditional Catalan cloth, design and styles. The weaving still takes place and gives a great insight into the intricate work needed to produce the fabrics available for sale. They have a website. Popping into Spain taking the mountain route gives you an opportunity to explore the many Spanish villages and their traditions. The food and wines always give a better flavour in appreciating the Catalan way of living.
For shopping expeditions Spain is perfect for purchases of alcohol, perfumes and all the delicious nibbles that you can enjoy with a glass of wine. The choice is so varied it leaves you spoilt.
Other Activities:
Canoeing, Absailing, adventure park, historic sites, cultural visits to Spain, Spa treatments, Quad biking.
