Collioure Travel Guide: Côte Vermeille, Banyuls & Fauvism

DepartmentPyrénées-Orientales
From Perpignan~25 min by train
Best forArt, beaches, wine
Stay2–3 nights

Collioure is a former fishing port on the Côte Vermeille, the 'vermilion coast' that runs from Argelès-sur-Mer to the Spanish border. In 1905 Henri Matisse and André Derain painted here in the vivid colours that gave birth to Fauvism.

What to see

The Château Royal, a fortress on the beach used by the Kings of Majorca and later strengthened by Vauban.
The church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, whose round bell tower was once the harbour lighthouse.
The Chemin du Fauvisme, a trail of reproductions placed where the painters set up their easels.
The windmill and Fort Saint-Elme on the hillside, for views over the bay.

Banyuls and the coast

Terraced vineyards produce sweet Banyuls and dry Collioure wines; many cellars offer tastings. The coastal path continues to Port-Vendres and Banyuls-sur-Mer, where the GR10 ends at the sea.

Food

Collioure is known for its salted anchovies, still prepared in a couple of family workshops. Try them with grilled peppers and a glass of local rosé.

Practical tips

Trains run along the coast from Perpignan (about 25 minutes). The town is very busy in summer, so arrive early or by train. The Canigou dominates the view inland.