CATALONIA-FRANCE

Generally speaking, Roussillon - french Catalonia, enjoys yearlong blue skies, bright and sunny days whatever the temperature. On the côte Vermeille, the only spell of cold can happen in february and during 2 or 3 days in May for the long lived legend of the "ice Saints days" ! Christmas festivities are held outdoors in Collioure and gather large folks. Ample rainfalls can strike in spring, but remain exceptionnal episodes. Thanks to the famous pyrenean wind that gusts here : "Tramontana", any hint of a grey cloud lurking is chased away. The temperature vary quite considerably from the cost and inlands to the mountains of course. Yet, who would complain to have the sea and mountain at reach ?

The ’Jewel in the Crown’ of the Pyrenees Orientales: Collioure, delights the visitor with its 17th century church and ramparts, and 13th century Royal château.

Street artists gather along the sea front promenade. Restaurants and boutiques, art galleries and workshops contribute to the lively and joyful activity along the quaint cobbled streets.

The breathtaking view accross the port inspired famous artists such as Matisse and Derain, Picasso, Dufy, Chagall and Marquet. Their influence is still very much in evidence.


Writers, poets, singers were numerous to fell under Collioure’s charm, immortalizing the small Catalan harbour in their works.