Eastern Pyrenees Itinerary
The Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip is a great way to explore the beauty of the French countryside. Starting in the small town of Tuchan, the trip takes you through the towns of Port la Nouvelle and Perpignan before ending in the picturesque coastal town of Collioure. The 156km journey takes about two days to complete and is best done in the summer months when the weather is at its best.
Along the way, you'll find plenty of sights to enjoy, from historical sites to stunning landscapes. There are also plenty of beaches to explore, so be sure to bring your swimming gear! The roads are generally in good condition, although some parts are quite narrow and curvy, so be sure to take it slow.
This is a road trip that will give you an unforgettable experience and plenty of memories to take home with you. It's suitable for all kinds of drivers, and can be enjoyed on a moderate budget. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
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number of days
156 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Tuchan
Distance 156 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: modest
40.6 kWh
Airports
PGF
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CCF
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Tuchan, located in the foothills of the Pyrenees in the south of France, is a great starting point for the Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip. There are plenty of interesting sights to visit in the town and its surroundings. The imposing Chateau de Tuchan, a medieval castle, is a must-see. The ruins of the Templar Commandery of Tuchan are also worth a visit. For a more natural experience, the Grotte de Tautavel, a cave that has provided evidence of human occupation since the Paleolithic period, is a great option.
The closest international airport is Carcassonne International Airport (CCF), located 54 kilometers away. There is an Avis car rental service at the airport, making it easy to start the Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip. Whether it's exploring the local sights or taking the wheel to start the journey, Tuchan is an ideal starting point for an unforgettable adventure.
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Tuchan
- Port la Nouvelle
Distance 51 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: modest
13.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Tuchan, France and explore the stunning 51km route to Port la Nouvelle. Along the way, you'll pass through the beautiful town of Sigean, with its rich history and stunning views. You'll be able to take in the sights and sounds of the French countryside, and enjoy the winding roads and steep ramps. As you drive, be sure to take in the stunning views and the historical sites along the way. You'll be able to find out more about the area's history by visiting the local museum, and you'll be able to take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. After your journey, you'll end up in Port la Nouvelle, where you can explore the local restaurants, accommodation options and campsites. Follow the itinerary for this stage for more information about attractions and other points of interest. Enjoy the drive!
Port la Nouvelle - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Port la Nouvelle - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Port la Nouvelle
- Perpignan
Distance 65 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
16.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an incredible road trip beginning in Port La Nouvelle, France and ending in Perpignan. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore the charming towns of Leucate and Salses Le Chateau, with a total distance of 64km and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours. Take in the historical sites and the scenic roads, some of which may be quite narrow. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for interesting attractions and activities. Once you arrive in Leucate, enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the nearby Pyrenees. In Salses Le Chateau, explore the unique castle and its surrounding medieval village. Finally, end your journey in Perpignan, where you can explore the city’s rich culture and vibrant nightlife. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Perpignan - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Flickr
Perpignan - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Flickr
Perpignan - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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3
Perpignan
- Collioure
Distance 40 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: slow
9.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Perpignan, France, and take the scenic route to Argeles sur Mer, only 41 km away and a driving time of less than 1 hour. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most beautiful countryside in France, with narrow roads winding through lush green hills. Keep your eyes open for historical sites and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Once you reach Argeles sur Mer, you can explore the old town and its winding streets, or head to the beach for some sun, sand, and sea. Don't forget to visit the old castle, with its amazing views of the bay. Finally, your journey ends in Collioure, a picturesque fishing village with a charming harbor, colorful houses, and a beautiful beach.
Remember that more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for a memorable road trip and explore the beauty of France!
Collioure - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Needpix.com
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Collioure
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Your Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip ends in the picturesque seaside town of Collioure, France. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, the town is known for its idyllic beaches, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
One of the must-see attractions in Collioure is the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges. This Baroque-style church is perched on a hill overlooking the port and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a great spot for admiring the view and taking some pictures.
Another great spot to visit is the Château Royal de Collioure. This castle dates back to the 14th century and is the oldest castle in the region. It’s a great spot to explore, and the views of the Mediterranean Sea from the castle’s perch are simply breathtaking.
If you’re looking for a beach experience, head to the Plage du Racou. This beach is known for its clear waters and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
To complete your Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip, make sure you explore the vibrant streets of Collioure. From the colorful buildings to the narrow cobblestone streets, Collioure is a great place to explore.
The closest international airport to Collioure is Perpignan - Rivesaltes Airport (PGF) which is located just 30 km away.
So make the most of your Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip and end your journey in the charming town of Collioure. Enjoy the beaches, explore the castle, and wander the streets to take in the culture and atmosphere.
Collioure - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Eastern Pyrenees at a glance
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Start:
Tuchan
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End:
Collioure
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Distance:
156 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Perpignan-Rivesaltes (Llabanère) Airport (PGF),
Carcassonne Airport (CCF)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating journey with the Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip, where you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French culture, revel in breathtaking landscapes, and unwind on pristine beaches. This Scenic Drive, extending 156km from Tuchan to Collioure, is not just a two-day excursion but an opportunity to create stories that last a lifetime.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Tuchan: Begin your adventure in this quaint village nestled amongst vineyards, known for producing some of the region's finest wines.
- Port la Nouvelle: Relish in seaside activities on the sandy beaches and explore the vibrant marina of this family-friendly destination.
- Perpignan: Experience a blend of French and Catalan influences in its architecture and cuisine, with landmarks like the Palace of the Kings of Majorca and Castillet.
- Collioure: Conclude your journey in this idyllic coastal town, where the historic Château Royal and the iconic bell tower of the Notre-Dame-des-Anges church overlook the Mediterranean Sea.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for this Road Trip is from June to September, when the summer sun bathes the region in warmth, ideal for enjoying both cultural excursions and beach relaxation.
Potential Risks:
Drivers should be mindful of the winding mountain passes and narrow village streets. It's recommended to check for any seasonal Road closures or weather-related issues before setting off.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route takes you through the Cathar country, dotted with ruins of medieval castles, each with a story of the region's tumultuous history.
- The Eastern Pyrenees is a wine enthusiast's haven, with opportunities to visit vineyards and taste renowned AOC wines like Maury and Côtes du Roussillon.
- Collioure is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate, famous for anchovies, which are celebrated with an annual festival.
A good choice for:
The Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip is a journey of moderate adventure and cultural indulgence, suitable for travelers yearning to explore the hidden gems of the French countryside and Mediterranean coast. It's a splendid choice for a summer itinerary that combines the allure of historical marvels with the serenity of seaside towns.