Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside…but don’t forget the villages!

Think Argelès-sur-Mer, Saint-Cyprien or Canet-en-Roussillon and what comes to mind?

Long sandy beaches stretching into the distance. Bustling marinas filled with yachts and fishing boats. Waterfront cafés, beach bars and delightful evening strolls along the prom prom prom (tiddly pom pom pom).

And quite right too.

But what about the villages?

While thousands of visitors spend their holidays by the sea each year, many never venture the few kilometres inland to discover the villages that gave these resorts their names.  Behind the modern beachfront developments lies a very different world, quintessentially Catalan in contrast to the modern beach resorts,: narrow streets lined with colourful shutters, centuries-old churches, Catalan traditions, local markets and shady squares where life still moves at a gentler pace.

So next time you’re heading to the beach, why not allow a few hours to explore the village as well? Take a stroll, hire a bike or why not pop into the tourist office and book a guided tour.

Argelès sur Mer

Just a short distance from the seafront, the old village of Argelès offers a glimpse of authentic Roussillon life.

Wander through the historic centre, stop for a coffee on a sunny terrace, perfect for people-watching, and explore the maze of narrow streets that lead towards the imposing church tower that dominates the skyline.

History lovers can follow traces of the former ramparts, while culture enthusiasts may enjoy temporary exhibitions at the Galerie Marianne, free municipal art gallery or a visit to the Casa de l’Albera, which celebrates the heritage of the Albères region.

For a more reflective experience, the Mémorial du camp d’Argelès-sur-Mer recalls the tragic history of the refugee camp established here during the Spanish Civil War.

Market Day: Wednesday and Saturday morning – streets and Place de la République
Beach to village: ten minute drive, 30 minute walk with some main roads, or take the Trainbus
Find out more.

Saint Cyprien

Many visitors know Saint-Cyprien for its marina, beaches and golf course, but the village itself has a character all its own.

At its heart stands the attractive church and bell tower, surrounded by cafés, restaurants and small local businesses that have brought fresh energy to the village in recent years.

Art lovers should not miss the very original Collections Museum of Modern Art,  based on the private collection of François Desnoyer and including works by Maillol, Dali, Chagall and Desnoyer himself.

A stroll through the old streets reveals a quieter side of Saint-Cyprien, far removed from the bustle of the summer coastline, while the nearby Chapelle Saint-Étienne de Villerase, when open, offers a peaceful glimpse into the area’s past.

The walk between the beach and village via Parc de la Prade remains one of the most pleasant in the region.

Market day: Thursday morning. Place de la Mairie
Beach to village: ten minute drive, Cypobus shuttle, litttle tourist train or 40 minute stroll through green and manicured Parc de la Prade with fitness circuit, kiddie’s play area, picnic and BBQ area, lakes and fountains…
Find out more.

Canet-en-Roussillon

The beach attracts the crowds, but Canet village rewards those who take the time to explore.

Dominated by its château, with remnants of walls built to protect the villagers from marauding pirates.the old centre still retains much of its traditional Catalan character. Cobbled lanes wind between stone buildings, hidden squares and historic monuments that tell the story of centuries of life on this coastal plain.
Highlights include the pretty 14th century Église Saint Jacques with ancient accommodation for pilgrims on their way to Saint-Jacques de Compostelle,  and the remarkable ice well, once used to store winter ice before the days of refrigeration.
The village is also a good base for discovering local wines, Catalan cuisine and the agricultural heritage that shaped the region long before tourism arrived.

Market days: Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
Beach to village: ten minute drive, 40 min walk via the marina but some busy roads.
Find out more.

The beaches, ports and promenades will always be part of the appeal of the Pyrénées-Orientales coastline but the villages reveal the history, culture and traditions that existed long before holiday apartments, marinas and beach clubs arrived.

So next time you pack the beach bag, leave a little room in your day for a village stroll too.