Céret has long been a stronghold for contemporary and modern art. Heralded as a Mecca for cubism, greats such as Picasso and Matisse would come to draw inspiration from the spectacular scenery and tap into the unique, creative energies of the area.

Augustin Hanicotte, a painter from the north of France, came south for reasons of health. During his stay from 1915 to 1945, with the simplest of materials, brown butcher’s paper, coloured pencils, charcoal or pastels, he lovingly portrayed the life of the village.

If you are interested in music, or a musician yourself, this museum is not to be missed. Housed in the former St. Pierre Hospital, next to La Capelleta, Céret’s Museum of Instruments and Music is an extensive and fascinating collection of all imaginable types of musical instrument.

The stunning landscapes, light, colours and hues of the region were an inspiration to take more. Most of the photos in this exhibition are views, but there are also some extra special ones taken from my travels with my late husband, Bruce.