In the surroundings

Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans: Catalan charm in all its glory

Nestled in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees (Vallespir valley), Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans (1 km from the campsite) is the sort of village you arrive in for a weekend… and end up staying longer. With its charming narrow streets, traditional Catalan houses and peaceful atmosphere, this little Catalan village offers a real return to the simple things in life. Here, time seems to slow down. You’ll enjoy strolling through the village centre, admiring the colourful façades and relaxing in the small, shaded squares where it’s lovely to stop for a cold drink. The warm and authentic atmosphere of Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans makes it an ideal destination for campers who love nature and want to unwind.

There is also a strong Catalan identity here, evident in both its architecture and its traditions. The village is particularly renowned for its craftsmanship in espadrille-making, a true local symbol. It’s the perfect place to discover a slice of history… and leave with a pair of shoes that will remind you of your holiday! As you stroll through the streets, you can also explore the village church, the old stone buildings and several magnificent viewpoints over the surrounding mountains. Here, everything (or almost everything) is “Instagram-worthy”, so get your camera ready!

The trails around the village offer exceptional panoramic views of the Catalan Pyrenees. Amidst forests, valleys and mountains, the landscapes change with the seasons and always provide a good excuse to go and explore the surroundings. Staying in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans also means enjoying the gentle Catalan way of life. The local markets, regional specialities and friendly locals give the village a particularly welcoming atmosphere. And here, even days with no plans turn out to be lovely: lunch on a terrace, an impromptu stroll or a nap in the sun are more than enough to fill your holiday schedule. Perhaps that’s what true “luxury” really is…

On the festive front, the Bear Festival brings the village to life every year at the end of February, with a joyful, traditional atmosphere featuring traditional costumes, Catalan music and chases that are as surprising as they are unmissable!

Breathtaking scenery: welcome to the Canigó Massif!

You simply can’t visit the Catalan Pyrenees without discovering the local star: the Canigó Massif (the Catalans’ sacred mountain)! Just a few kilometres from the campsite, it’s a true paradise for lovers of hiking and the great outdoors. With deep forests, panoramic ridges, mountain refuges and spectacular views stretching all the way to the Mediterranean, the massif offers breathtaking scenery… and, let’s be honest, it’s a real workout for the legs too. Whether you’re a leisurely walker or a keen hiker ready to tackle the climbs, the Canigó offers numerous routes suitable for all levels.

It’s impossible to talk about the massif without mentioning the legendary Pic du Canigó, an iconic peak rising to 2,784 metres. An unmissable hike for mountain lovers and sports enthusiasts seeking magnificent panoramic views. There are several possible starting points, notably from the Cortalets refuge, which allows you to shorten the ascent whilst still making the most of the scenery. Throughout the route, the views of the Catalan Pyrenees are exceptional. Once at the summit, the spectacle is simply magical: mountains stretching as far as the eye can see, an impressive silence and, at times, even the Mediterranean as a backdrop!

Accessible and very popular with families and leisurely walkers, the hike to the Refuge des Cortalets allows you to discover the typical landscapes of the massif without necessarily aiming for the summit. The trail passes through magnificent pine forests and offers several remarkable views of the surrounding valleys. Once at the refuge, you can enjoy a well-deserved break in a friendly mountain atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, admiring the views or simply savouring the peace and quiet of nature.

The Mariailles Refuge area is ideal for gentler, more accessible hikes. Several circular routes allow you to explore mountain streams, high-altitude meadows and wild landscapes without having to set off on a ten-hour expedition.

It is also an excellent starting point for observing local wildlife (marmots, birds of prey, etc.) and flora. The Canigó Massif offers a unique experience in all seasons. In spring, the trails are carpeted with wildflowers; in summer, the forests provide a welcome coolness; in autumn, the colours are magnificent. So don’t panic if your holiday isn’t in the summer – the views are there all year round!

Mountain biking in the Haut Vallespir Valley: a mix of trails and stunning views

With its varied terrain, mountain forests and quintessentially Catalan landscapes, the Haut Vallespir Valley is a life-size playground, perfect for mountain bikers. Here, the trails alternate between forest tracks, narrow mountain roads, more technical sections and spectacular views of the Pyrenees. One thing is certain: the hardest part will often be choosing which route to take…

Whatever your level, Haut Vallespir has everything you need… with a wonderful reward waiting at the end of the ride.

From Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans, several routes allow you to explore the landscapes of Haut Vallespir without embarking on an adventure worthy of an Alpine stage. The loops around the village alternate between shaded forests and valleys, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. The terrain features rolling tracks and short, steeper sections that provide just the right amount of challenge! An excellent outing to enjoy the scenery whilst taking the time to stop and snap a few photos…

For campers who love mountain biking and the great outdoors, the Col d’Ares area offers superb trails between France and Catalonia. The routes allow you to discover incredible panoramic views of the Pyrenean mountains. The climbs require a bit of effort, but the descents offer a real sense of freedom!

On a different note, heading towards Coustouges, several mountain bike trails take you through wilder, unspoilt landscapes. Here, you wind your way through forests, clearings and narrow mountain paths in a particularly peaceful atmosphere. It’s the sort of ride where you cycle for ages without seeing many people, simply enjoying the peace and nature!

A little further on, the area around Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste also offers some lovely mountain bike trails with a beautiful variety of landscapes, including forest tracks, mountain views, more technical sections for enthusiasts, and the chance to stop for a break in this superb fortified village before hitting the road again. Because, after all, exploring the local heritage is a bit like recharging your batteries whilst staying active (and why not treat yourself to a sweet treat on a terrace…).

The must-see villages of Vallespir: a blend of Catalan charm and wonderful discoveries

A stay in Vallespir also means taking the time to explore its charming villages. With their bustling narrow streets, Catalan heritage, colourful markets and mountain scenery, each village has its own unique atmosphere… but they all share one thing in common: the urge to linger a little longer than planned. From Camping Verte Rive in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans, several hidden gems are easily accessible for a getaway combining culture, gastronomy and the great outdoors. Discover our small selection for a well-rounded family outing!

For the first stop, head to Céret (25km from the campsite): the Catalan way of life straight out of a postcard! It’s impossible to talk about the Vallespir without mentioning this village, undoubtedly one of the region’s most iconic. Known for its artistic atmosphere and southern way of life, Céret immediately charms with its shaded squares, lively narrow streets and characterful façades. Strolling through the historic centre is an experience in itself. Settle down on a terrace, watch the local life go by, let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere… and completely lose track of time. Céret is also renowned for its strong connection to art and has welcomed many artists over the years. Don’t miss its famous market without stopping by: it’s the perfect place to discover Catalan flavours, nor its little shops, which often tempt you to leave with ‘just a souvenir’, only to return with a bag much fuller than expected. And of course, you can’t mention Céret without talking about its famous cherries. Here, they’re almost an institution!

For the second stop, head to Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste (20 km from the campsite): a fortified village at the foot of the mountains. Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste offers a completely different yet equally spectacular setting. Ranked among the most beautiful villages in Catalonia, this fortified village has immense charm with its ramparts, cobbled streets and mountain atmosphere. Walking through it feels like stepping into a period setting, with the impression that a knight might appear around the corner (well, unlikely, mind you). Dominated by Fort Lagarde, the village is well worth taking the time to climb up to the fort to admire the panoramic view across the entire valley. The view is superb and offers an excellent opportunity to pretend to admire the landscape whilst discreetly recovering from the climb. Prats-de-Mollo is also renowned for its vibrant Catalan traditions and its warm atmosphere all year round.

Finally, we suggest you stop off at Arles-sur-Tech (15km from the campsite). Further north in the valley, Arles-sur-Tech is a charming village that blends historical heritage with a peaceful natural setting. Its old town is perfect for a stroll, with its narrow streets, quiet squares and buildings steeped in history. The village is particularly well-known for its religious heritage and its peaceful atmosphere, which makes you want to slow down. While there, don’t miss a visit to the Abbey of Sainte-Marie d’Arles-sur-Tech, one of the jewels of the region’s Romanesque heritage. Its architecture and cloister are well worth a visit! But this village is also an excellent starting point for enjoying the surrounding countryside: walks, scenic viewpoints and quiet spots are just a stone’s throw from the village centre.

The Yellow Train of Cerdagne: travel aboard the iconic Catalan train!

If there is one activity that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Catalan Pyrenees, it is undoubtedly the legendary Train Jaune de Cerdagne. With its yellow and red silhouette, now a local icon, this little century-old train winds its way through spectacular landscapes and offers a unique way to explore the mountains… without having to walk, after all! For over a century, the Train Jaune has linked Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol on a journey of around 63 kilometres through valleys, viaducts, tunnels and high-altitude plateaus (doesn’t that remind you of a famous series about wizards?). The full journey takes around 3 hours and climbs over 1,200 metres in altitude to Bolquère station, the highest operational SNCF station in France at 1,593 metres above sea level.

The Train Jaune winds its way gently through the heart of the mountains, passing through forests, hugging cliffs and revealing magnificent views of the Têt valley and the Cerdagne plateau. On board, time slows down a little… and that is exactly what gives it its charm. One of the great pleasures of the journey, especially on sunny days, is travelling in the famous open carriages. An experience not to be missed: hair blowing in the wind, the Pyrenean sunshine and, of course, your camera!

From the Camping Verte Rive in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans, a lovely way to spend the day is to head to Villefranche-de-Conflent, board the Train Jaune and alight at one of the route’s iconic stops to explore the surroundings before heading back. The hardest part of this trip isn’t choosing where to stop… but resisting the urge to photograph everything. Because, really, the Train Jaune isn’t just a means of transport: it’s an experience in its own right, a little journey out of time that makes you feel like you’re rediscovering the Pyrenees, all with the family.

Outdoor sports in Vallespir: between sky and earth, but always packed with thrills!

A stay at Camping Verte Rive in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans means having the Catalan Pyrenees as your open-air playground! In the Vallespir Valley, outdoor activities are all about the great outdoors: you can fly, climb, slide, walk… and sometimes do all four in the same week. Surrounded by mountains, rivers and panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see, this is a place where you’ll be in for a real treat.

If you’ve ever looked at the mountains and thought, “It would be brilliant to see that from above”, paragliding is likely to become your favourite activity. In the Vallespir, several flights allow you to soar over the valleys and the slopes of Mont Canigó, and, in good weather, to catch a glimpse of the Mediterranean. Take-off is from the heights, and the rest of the experience is all about enjoying the scenery. To try out this activity with a guide in the area (yes, we won’t leave you stranded in the sky…), Paragliding 66, Les Ailes du Vallespir and Biplace&Stage offer introductory sessions to this wonderful activity. So, ready to take to the skies?

For campers who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, why not give canyoning a go? In the Vallespir, water has taken its time to carve out the mountains… and today it offers some of the finest canyoning terrain in the department. On the agenda: river descents, jumps (always optional), abseiling down waterfalls and sliding into natural pools. Head to the area’s most iconic canyon: the Canyon Cascades de Baoussous – near Céret, ideal for discovering the activity in spectacular surroundings. Another popular spot is the Canyon du Mas Calsan – in Reynès, known for its series of waterfalls, fun sections and pools of clear water. Be careful, though – mountain water is always colder than you might think… So, are you ready to take on the challenge?

The Amélie-les-Bains Thermal Baths: a wellness break that captures the essence of southern Catalonia

On a different note, and just a few kilometres from Camping Verte Rive in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans, Les Thermes offers a relaxing break in the heart of the Vallespir. Here, you’ll happily swap your hiking boots for a bathrobe, the uphill climbs for a few degrees of warm water, and a packed schedule for a single mission: to simply enjoy yourself. Nestled in the Tech Valley, the spa resort of Amélie-les-Bains enjoys a particularly mild and sunny microclimate that has long been the hallmark of its reputation. Situated between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, the resort attracts wellness enthusiasts as well as visitors seeking relaxation after a few days exploring the region!

In Amélie-les-Bains, the history of thermal bathing goes back a long way. The springs were already being used in ancient times, and the spa town has developed over the centuries around this exceptional natural resource. Traces of the ancient baths are still visible today, lending the place a thoroughly soothing atmosphere. The thermal waters that spring forth here are naturally warm (between 44°C and 62°C) and rich in minerals, particularly sulphur, fluorine and silica.

The resort is organised around two complementary worlds. On one side, the Roman Baths, set in a historic site with their vaulted spaces and an almost timeless atmosphere. On the other, the Mondony Thermal Baths offer more contemporary facilities opening out onto the landscapes of the Vallespir. Whether you come for a course of treatment, a wellness day or simply to treat yourself to a few hours of relaxation, the experience has that certain something that makes you glance at your watch… and then decide not to look at it at all!

Treating yourself to a little relaxation session at the thermal baths with a view of the Pyrenees after a few days’ hiking: let’s be honest: it feels good! And that, too, is the joy of holidays…

A day trip between Perpignan and Collioure: the perfect blend of Catalan town life and sea air

From Camping Verte Rive in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans, treat yourself to a city and seaside break and head to Perpignan (around 62 km away)! And as Collioure is then just about thirty minutes from Perpignan, here’s an idea for a day that’s quintessentially Southern: a bit of culture in the morning, lunch in the sunshine… and a late afternoon overlooking the Mediterranean.

For your first stop, head to Perpignan, the Catalan capital with a distinct character. Here, French and Spanish influences blend naturally to create a warm, lively and decidedly Mediterranean atmosphere. Start the day with a stroll through the historic centre. The colourful narrow streets, bustling squares and warm-toned façades immediately set the tone: here, people take their time, and that’s pretty much the motto. You can’t miss the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, an impressive fortress overlooking the city. With its inner courtyards, gardens and panoramic views over the rooftops of Perpignan, a visit here offers a chance to gain a little height… and discreetly fill up your phone’s photo gallery. Then venture towards Perpignan’s Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, before letting yourself be drawn to the terraces in the city centre for a coffee break (or a gourmet treat – no one will hold it against you).In Perpignan, lunch is taken seriously… but never in a rush. Settle down in a shaded square and soak up the local atmosphere. Catalan cuisine, local produce and plenty of sunshine: the formula is simple but very effective.

After the urban atmosphere, Collioure offers a complete change of scenery. It’s hard not to fall under the spell of this iconic little port on the Catalan coast. With its colourful houses, cobbled streets and unique light, Collioure quickly gives the impression of stepping into a postcard. Start by strolling along the seafront to the famous Château Royal de Collioure before deliberately losing yourself in the narrow streets of the town centre. Take the time to admire the iconic Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges, probably one of the most photographed sights in the region. And frankly, it’s easy to see why. If you can, stay until the end of the day. As the light begins to fall on the colourful façades and the harbour grows quieter, Collioure takes on a whole new dimension. An ice cream in hand, a few minutes facing the sea… and suddenly, heading back to the campsite seems far less urgent. With its heritage, Catalan atmosphere and a breath of fresh Mediterranean air, this Perpignan–Collioure getaway ticks all the boxes for a successful family holiday day out.

A day across the border: enjoy a trip and day out in Spain!

When you’re staying at Camping Verte Rive in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans, spending a day in Spain is almost a given. The border is just a few kilometres from the village, making it easy to pop over to Spanish Catalonia for a getaway filled with charming villages, fine food and mountain scenery. And the best bit? No need to plan a major expedition: here, a trip to another country can be done in a single day… yet you’ll feel as though you’ve travelled much further afield. So here’s a suggested itinerary for your short break in Catalonia!

Morning: head to Camprodon, Catalan charm on the Spanish side. Located about 25 km away, this small Catalan town nestled in the mountains is one of the most popular day trips from the Haut Vallespir. As soon as you arrive, the scene is set: colourful houses, a river running through the centre and a peaceful atmosphere that immediately makes you want to slow down. The historic centre is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can’t miss the famous medieval bridge spanning the river: probably one of the most photographed spots in the area and, quite honestly, it certainly lives up to its reputation. Lose yourself in the narrow streets, pop into the little local shops and enjoy the lively squares for a coffee… or a second one. You’re on holiday, after all.

Lunchtime: treat yourself and make the most of it: tapas, sunshine and the Catalan way of life are on the menu. A day in Spain without a food break would be a bit like a hike without a viewpoint: technically possible, but frankly a shame. Settle down on a terrace and let yourself be tempted by a few local specialities to share. Here, a meal is an experience in its own right. You order “just a few things”… then the table mysteriously fills up. Embrace the Spanish pace: take your time, have a chat and, of course, savour every bite.

If you fancy extending your trip, head next to the small mountain villages around Camprodon. The Molló area offers stunning scenery and an authentic atmosphere, whilst Beget is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia. With its cobbled streets, little bridge and timeless atmosphere, it’s the sort of place where you say “we’ll just stay for ten minutes”… before leaving an hour later. For campers who prefer the great outdoors, the surrounding area also offers lovely, accessible walks with magnificent views of the Catalan mountains.

On the way back, the mountains gradually reclaim their place in the landscape and you realise that in a single day, you’ve changed countries, discovered a different atmosphere… without ever really leaving the Pyrenees. A simple, exotic and charming getaway that reminds you of one essential thing: at Camping Verte Rive, holidays sometimes have the luxury of taking you across the border!