::Le Mag Group:: The Best of … Perpignan

The Best of … Perpignan, Jul 02

“Perpignan has been French for only three Centuries”. This is what I say to foreigners when I welcome them to ALFMED !!

Why such an introduction? It is simply to explain how one can have this curious impression of the region made up of accents of a southern French City mixed with a Catalan history.

Situated on the doorstep of Barcelona – its Catalan cousin – and protected by the Pyrenees mountain chain in the South and the Cathar castles in the North, the region has managed to keep its traditions and landscapes. While Perpignan – founded by the Romans and once the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Majorca – enchants its visitors with its palm tree lined squares, its sunny terraces and narrow streets, and its very special untarnished Mediterranean charm.

Highlights:

Let’s talk about gastronomy, history and bubbles!!

• The best authentic local cuisine (and a secret gem): Take the road through the Cathare Land and explore the Maury region. Nestled in the Fenouillèdes, discover the magnificent Chateau de Jau, a winery restaurant surrounded by cliffs and vineyards. Sit on the terrace shaded by a centenary mulberry tree and enjoy the same unique menu that has been served here for nearly 10 years! The traditional meals are served with a range of wines from the Chateau.

• Best souvenirs: Maison Quinta. Founded 30 years ago and located in an old mansion in the historic centre of Perpignan, this is THE place to find an individual and very “chic” souvenir.

• Best view : Collioure, not surprising , eh? But you can see Collioure from two other angles apart from the typical tourist view. You can follow the Painters frames of MA2F that show you the view through golden frames over 12 locations and appreciate some famous painters’ reproduction of them … and take the time to learn about Fauvism!! Collioure can also be discovered from a larger perspective. Climb up the olive hill of the Pams Museum and you’ll be fascinated by the bay and its inspiring light. (pic)

• Best architecture: Perpignan’s historic centre has to be explored. Walk past the Cathedral and the reborn Campo Santo and go down the street “Rue de la Revolution Française”. You’ll be charmed by the paved place adorned by a Salamander fountain.

• Best night out: “Le bar à bulles” (bubbles bar) in Canet-Plage, a very hip spot where people meet at night and have a glass of the bubbly Nayandei!

And finally, if you are still searching for an hidden beach restaurant, ZAZA club is the best place. Tucked away on one of the wild beaches of Torreilles, the place is magic at night – facing the sea, with very good catalan tapas and wines, wood decks and a French DJ. It is THE place to meet French people and sail through the night…. And if you sleep on the beach don’t be surprised in the morning … it is a naturist beach! But only during the daytime!

By Florence Delseny Sobra of Académie de Langues France Méditerranée (ALFMED)