Coming from the French word terre for “soil,” the word terroir originally described the special characteristics of a region, or piece of land, which gave different varieties of wine, coffee and tea their individuality. (Soil, climate, position, regional traditions….)
Sébastien le Prestre de Vauban designed a new fort at the crossroads of the Conflent, Capcir and Cerdagne to defend the border. Named after King Louis X1V, it is said that he chose the position of Mont Louis based on the good health and fine teeth of the inhabitants of nearby villages!
Each year, the Ermitage de la Saint Ferréol bursts with life with the annual Festa Major. Tradition, religion, food and drink… it’s a firm favourite with the locals.
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.
Throughout June, three community projects will be held on the Canigó massif and foothills to protect and preserve the sacred mountain… so roll up your sleeves for Canigou!
Back in medieval times Collioure’s reputation revolved around the salting of anchovies, sardines and tuna.
The beautiful castle in the heart of the Albères is said to be haunted by the ghost of a British spy
WITH KATYA WILLEMSEN (Read Shepherd’s Prayer, Katja’s fast- paced adventure set in Collioure. Available on Amazon) Cherries, apricots, grapes and peaches may be our region’s above ground treasure, but iron ore and other metals, even…
The Hôtel Belvédère was once a Grand Hotel catering to The Hôtel Belvédère of Cerbèrewell-heeled travelers bound for Spain and obliged to wait several days while their visas were being processed
Empúries, (coming from the Greek “Emporion” meaning market place or shopping centre) lies midway between the Costa Brava town of L’Escala and the tiny village of Sant Martí. Archeology fans will be in ruins heaven!