Elne, ancient capital of Roussillon, its stones steeped in 2,500 years of history, is an inspiring and fascinating town
We pass evocatively named places busy with history; Besalú, St Jaume de Llierca, Castellfollit de la Roca before entering Olot and the Parc Natural de la Zona Volcanica de la Garrotxa abundant with fascinating conical and sometimes symmetrical hills.
At the foot of the Albères mountain range, just a short drive away from the Spanish border lies Argelès.
When the coast gets too hot, too crowded or the sun takes some time off, a day out in the High Vallespir beckons.
This walk is a circuit in the Albères hills above the small village of Villelongue-dels-Monts, part of which was one of the “PATHS OF FREEDOM” used by many escapees during WW2 and the ‘Retirada’.
Today we’re heading up to the cooler air of the Conflent region, land of contrast, rich in culture and history, from its snowy peaks, wild, mountainous terrain and stunning lakes, to its many pretty and peaceful villages.
It’s 1946. War is over. On the sandy tracks of the Racou beach village, amidst fishermen’s huts and makeshift shelters thrown together in darker days by Spanish refugees, people, laugh, drink, share a pastis….
Head out for the day to the beautiful seaside town of Collioure- inspiration to some of the world’s greatest artists and home to history, food and culture
A 2 hour straightforward walk over the hills from Le Perthus, with lots of historical interest. Some footpaths and a lot of forest road. One for a day when you fancy a nice walk but not a big climb!
Between France and Spain on the N9 is a strange no man’s land dedicated to consumerism. Stroll down the ‘route principale’ from the French side, and you are still in France……