Cathar country and eastern Pyrenees

Ceret

If I was pressed, I would have to say that much of the architecture in the region is not especially remarkable, and some of the towns are less than attractive. To compensate, they have built Céret. Céret is a lovely little town, with cafes and art shops, shady trees and a lot of character, based around narrow streets between the small open squares, and parts of the old town walls still standing.

Céret

The most surprising aspect of the town is the fine 'Museum of Modern Art' - with works by Picasso, Chagall, Dufy and Dali. In fact, both Matisse and Picasso lived in the town, giving rise to its claim to artistic fame.

Coast

Just south of Perpignan are several long flat sandy beaches. More interestingly, go a little further and you reach the so called Côte Vermeille - the last few kilometres of coast before reaching Spain. Unfortunately, like much of the Languedoc coast, over-development has damaged the towns quite substantially, although Collioure retains some of its charm of earlier times. Keep following the coast road for some good views, with the mountains one way and the sea the other.

Sport

Ignoring the water activities, walking and cycling are of course important in the Pyrenees. On a fine day the roads can be as congested with cyclists as cars. Ask at the local tourist office for information about walks in the region. We stayed in a cottage about 20 km inland from Perpignan, midway between Céret and Queribus. Perfect location, and ideal for walking, cycling, and the obligatory trips to the beach with the children

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