RENTAL ARGELES SUR MER : 

Located in the heart of the Pyrénées-Orientales department in the Languedoc-Roussillon-Midi-Pyrénées region, Argelès-sur-Mer is divided into four distinct areas: the city center, Argelès beach, Argelès port and Le Racou.

Originally, Argelès was a village that developed inland from the sea. It is therefore only a few decades since the town became a popular seaside resort. Lovers of historical heritage will admire the many religious buildings in Argelès-sur-Mer, notably the church of Notre-Dame del Prat. Built in the 14th century in the Southern Gothic style, this place of worship is renowned for the splendor of its main building and the imposing character of the enormous buttresses that surround it. Also worth a visit: the Abbey of Valbonne, where you can see many sculptures characteristic of Cistercian art. You can continue your walk by going to the site of Racou, a natural site belonging to the Conservatoire du littoral et des rivages Lacustres. This incredibly well-preserved ecosystem is home to two protected species in particular: the bristly Passerine and the Roussillon Armenia. The Massane Valley is the other natural site not to be missed when you are in this area. You will discover the site of the Cova de la Tortuga, a cavity made of granite in which numerous archaeological excavations have already been conducted.

Argelès-sur-Mer also has fine sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. The umbrella pines and the maritime pines give rhythm to the natural landscapes and one can take advantage of an outing on the coast to discover the surroundings of Argelès, with the Cathar castles Quéribus and Peyrepertuse, perched on the top of the Corbières and which dominate the plain of Roussillon.

THE EASTERN PYRENEES

Between the Mediterranean, the mountains and the Spanish border, the Eastern Pyrenees do not lack perspectives, nor assets. In addition to these natural riches, the department seduces with its heritage and its art of living.

From the sea to the mountains, the Pyrenees Orientales offers you an exceptional nature destination. In summer, take advantage of the mild mornings to explore the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Natural Park and in the afternoon, cool off in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. On foot, by bike or on horseback, follow the many marked trails and discover the natural wonders of the department: Mount Canigou, the organs of Ille-sur-Têt, the cave of Fontrabiouse and those of Grandes Canalettes. By the sea, enjoy the large sandy beaches of Argelès-sur-Mer, Canet-en-Rousillon, Port-Barcarès or the small, wilder creeks between Collioure and Banyuls-sur-Mer. On the program: lazing around, scuba diving, sailing, sea kayaking, kite-surfing...

In winter, the Neiges Catalanes ski area invites you to 7 alpine ski resorts and one of the largest Nordic areas in the Pyrenees. Located between 1600 m and 2700 m of altitude, it offers you 180 km of alpine ski slopes, 450 km of Nordic ski slopes and 250 km of snowshoe trails. You can also practice biathlon, snowkiting, paragliding and even ice diving. After a day on the slopes, relax in a hot water bath in Saint-Thomas les Bains, Dorres or Llo, or take the little yellow train between Latour-de Carol and Vernet-les-Bains. You can also treat yourself to a day of wellness in one of the 5 thermal spas of the department.

In all seasons, enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Pyrenees. In Perpignan, admire the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, a beautiful 13th century fortress, located in the heart of the city and which astonishes by its Gothic architecture tinged with orientalism. Visit also the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels and the House of Catalanity. Among the many other sites to visit, let's mention the priory of Serrabona, masterpiece of Romanesque art, and the royal castle of Collioure which overlooks the sea. Finally, taste the traditional recipes of Catalan gastronomy, whose names alone are full of sunshine: ollada, cargolada, bottifarres, fuets... without forgetting the pleasant pastries and the wines of Banyuls or Maury.