Arriving in Barcelona for a vacation, one can fully enjoy its beauties, incredible atmosphere, and vibrant colors. Here, every day can be special, full of discoveries and impressions. Also, being in the capital of Catalonia, thanks to its convenient geographical location, one can embark on a journey to other cities in Spain, France, and Andorra. One of the most interesting could be the excursion from Barcelona to Perpignan and Collioure.
Perpignan, Collioure, oysters – an unforgettable journey through the most charming places in France
The excursion to Perpignan and Collioure and the tasting of oysters is an opportunity to see extraordinarily beautiful landscapes woven from the majestic Eastern Pyrenees, breathtaking serpentine roads, and mysterious gorges. To get acquainted with previously unexplored places, their history, culture, and attractions. To try the freshest oysters, smelling of the sea.
The excursion route will start from Barcelona – it is there that every tourist can comfortably settle into a comfortable bus. After which, together with a qualified guide, they will embark on an exciting journey. During the transfers, one can eagerly admire the stunning landscapes accompanied by interesting stories from the guide.
The excursion will last 10 hours, allowing visits to such amazing places as:
- Perpignan – an amazing ancient city;
- Collioure – a stunning town on the Vermilion coast;
- Port Leucate – a city of amazing oyster farms.
The first stop of the exciting route will be the magnificent Perpignan – a city that played a special role in the 13th–14th centuries, as it was then the capital of the Kingdom of Mallorca. The city, due to its close proximity to Catalonia, has adopted many characteristics typical of this region.
Tourists here will be able to stroll through the ancient, narrow streets, admire the gates of Notre-Dame, and its ancient defensive towers. To see the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and also enjoy the beautiful, well-preserved examples of French Gothic.
After visiting Perpignan, you will head to one of the coziest, most beautiful, picturesque towns on the coast – Collioure. This place is a true gem, a paradise for tourist walks.
This port of the Phoenicians, ancient Greeks with its formidable fortresses, picturesque mountain slopes, and bohemian, serene atmosphere was loved by famous, renowned artists such as: P. Picasso, A. Marquet, R. Dufy, A. Matisse, and others. Therefore, it is not surprising that this fishing village is considered the birthplace of Fauvism – a movement in French painting of the 20th century.
Tourists here will be able to enjoy not only the incredible nature, truly capable of inspiring, but also the stunning attractions:
- The Royal Castle. The structure, located on the seacoast, was built between the 13th and 14th centuries on the site of the first castle, dated to the 7th century. The building was used as a summer residence for the rulers of Mallorca. Starting from the 17th century, the castle underwent many reconstructions, and large fortress walls were added to it;
- The Church of Notre-Dame. The church is located in the northern part of the port. Its main highlights are the bell tower, which was previously used as a lighthouse, and the pink dome made in the Italian style;
- The Chapel of Saint Vincent. A stone path from Notre-Dame will lead you to the magnificent chapel, built in 1701, dedicated to the patron saint of the city.
After a stunning walk, the car will take you to Port Leucate – a true oyster paradise. Here, in the midst of a picturesque bay, are oyster farms.
These pavilions on the shore offer everyone the chance to taste the most delicious, fresh oysters, the taste of which can be a real discovery for those who have never tried this delicacy. You can also try other types of seafood, namely mussels and clams.
The cost of half a dozen oysters will be around 6-8 euros for tourists. As a rule, this delicacy is served on ice, accompanied by bread, butter, and lemon. White wine is invariably offered.
