Villefranche de Conflent, Languedoc Roussillon - Mountains, Markets and Medieval Masterpieces

Home to medieval villages such as Evol and Eus (officially two of the most beautiful villages in France) and the fortified towns of Villefranche and Mont Louis, this region stretches from the Mediterranean beaches to the Pyrenean mountains, with fabulous scenery, a wide range of walks as well as a range of activities for all the family – from sailing, scuba-diving and fishing to outdoor activity parks, spa baths and skiing.

Take the Little Yellow Train from Villefranche or Olette and sit in the open carriages as it winds its way uphill to the highest train station in Europe. Enjoy early croissants in a local bar or sample traditional Catalan cuisine in typical family-run restaurants. Sample local specialities such as Crema Catalana (a rich creamy dessert) or Butifarra (a tangy sausage), or drop into local producers of honey.

Don’t miss the huge market at Prades (every Tuesday morning) for fabulous local delicacies, handicrafts and bargain fabrics or simply sit at a bar in the square and enjoy the spectacle! If your visit is in May/June, take advantage of the cherry harvest by buying from local roadside sellers or check out the cherry festival in Ceres.

For the adventurous, Mont Canigou – the so-called “Catalan magic mountain” - can be climbed from mid-May by landrover / 4x4 or two hours on foot.

If history is your passion, then don’t miss Villefranche-de-Conflent - an historic walled town built by Louis Vauban in the 17th century; Fort Liberia looks down on the fortified town and there is a connecting tunnel between the two. If your visit is around the start of Lent, then enjoy Villefranche’s Mardi Gras parade with its huge papier-mâché figures and local fair. On Good Friday, there is also a huge parade of cloaked and hooded figures through Perpignan, although young children may find this rather intimidating.

Looking for something more “scientific”? Then head to the 'Fort Solar' near Mont Louis, one of the largest solar-powered electricity stations in Europe, with its own visitor centre.

All-round great family days out can be enjoyed at the high-ropes and white water courses in Marquixanes. Further afield, explore the fort at Salses constructed in the 15th century or the fortified city of Carcassonne in Cathar country - but wear comfortable footwear (its uphill from the car parks!) and be prepared for crowds during the peak holiday seasons. Take a full-day trip to Barcelona or Gerona for fabulous shops and architecture.

To round off the day, pamper yourself at the spa baths at St Thomas les Bains (near Fontpedrouse) where you can relax in the spa pools, steam away your cares in the Turkish baths or submit to the tender ministrations of the masseurs and beauty therapists, who use a full range of herbal and natural products.

Finally, a few words of Catalan can go a long way – “si us plau” (please), “gràcies (thank you), “hola” (hello), “adéu” (goodbye) and – when all else fail (!) - “parla engonals?” (do you speak English?).

Written by Peter Newell - Owner of Property 92220 in Villefranche de Conflent, France