Getting There: Easy Jet fly to Barcelona (Tel: 0870 600000)
Ryan Air fly to Perpignan from Stanstead Airport, and also now to Gerona. (Tel: 0541 569569)
Premier Leisure sell charter flights to Gerona & Barcelona (Tel: 0208 5978122)
Port-Vendres is on a train line from both Paris and Barcelona and there is an overnight train from Calais.
Motor rail run an over night service from Calais to Narbonne (Tel: 0990 848848)
Rail Europe Direct do TGV from London to Perpignan. Tel: 08705 848848)
Climate & Surrounding Countryside: Sheltered by the Pyrenees, this part of France has an exceptionally mild climate and more than 300 days of sunshine a year. The Tramontane wind comes from the North West and chases away any rain clouds! Port-Vendres lies in the foothills of the Pyrenees, on whose steep slopes are grown some excellent wines, notably the delicious fortified wine of Banyuls. Those wishing to walk can follow the many mule tracks through the vineyards or walk along the cliff tops and experience breath-taking coastal views of the Corbiere mountains to the North and the Costa Brava to the South. The rugged coastline provides charming secluded beaches and opportunities for fishing and scuba diving.
Beaches & Attractions: There are a variety of beaches within easy reach. There are several small beaches in Port-Vendres itself, restaurant-bedecked beaches at Collioure and Banyuls, a nice family beach surrounded by vineyards with bar and restaurant at Paulilles, (which takes five minutes by car or can be reached on foot along the cliff tops) and long sandy beaches four miles to the North at Argeles.
In Summer, a little yellow “train” runs from Port-Vendres to the historical village of Collioure, passing through the vineyards. Famous for its clock tower and chateau, it has long been the haunt of artists, such as Picasso and Matisse, and artists can be seen at work around the harbour.
The region is steeped in history and many interesting excursions can be made to its medieval villages, fortresses, Cathare chateaux and beautifully restored Romanesque abbeys.
