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The
orchards and mountains provide the opportunity for walking,
climbing and enjoying the stunning views. Those who enjoy serious walking
may wish to tackle the ascent of Mount Canigou. It demands stamina, but
is do-able for those who are fit and keen.
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There
are also shady riverside walks and cycle
routes through the richly fertile surrounding countryside. Vibrant
bougainvillea and heady oleander thrive in the wonderful, virtually rain
free, summer climate.
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Ille-sur-Tet
is just one of the many pretty towns and villages
in the area. Eus, is particularly lovely and has been awarded "Villages
de France" status. Others such as Vinca, Castelnou and Molitg-les-Bains,
all have their own individual charm.
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This
area of the Roussillon is steeped in history. Samples of exquisite medieval
religious architecture
can be found both in the town itself and in surrounding parts. The Priory
of Serrabone is a Romanesque masterpiece.
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The
coast
is just over half an hour`s drive away. Most of the beaches provide miles
of white sand which shelve gently down into the deep blue Mediterranean
sea.
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Collioure
is worth a special mention. This magical coastal town has been the workplace
of famous painters such as Picasso and Matisse.
Its wonderful light
is also an inspiration to modern day artists, many of whom display their
work along the sea front and in their studios, which may be found tucked
away in the narrow cobbled back streets.
Every visitor to
this region of France must spend at least one day in Collioure.
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For
those who like trains why not take a ride on the famous Little
Yellow Train. It transports its passengers up between the rugged
foothills of the Pyrenees into the world of mountain top pastureland, where
all you hear is the sound of silence except, perhaps, for the occasional
chink, chink of a cowbell.
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Finally,
if you enjoy a glass or two of wine,
you are about to enter the most prolific wine growing area of France. The
Cotes de Roussillon and Roussillon Villages labels are excellent and very
reasonably priced. The area is also well known for its fortified wines.
Muscat, Banyuls and the locally brewed Byrrh are served cold as aperitifs
or may equally be savoured as after dinner digestifs. |
