Collioure

A picture-perfect seaside escape

The charming town of Collioure is in the southern tip of France, at the foothills of the Pyrenees. Set in the Roussillon region, you'll find plenty of sunshine and distinct Catalan influences, thanks to its close proximity to Spain.

It has a captivatingly pretty port with salmon pink houses, seaside restaurants and cafes. After a day spent on the beach discovering secret coves, why not stroll back into town and try the local specialty - delicious anchovies caught fresh from the sea? A livelier atmosphere can be found with the resort of Argelès-sur-Mer just 15 minutes' drive away.

Why we love it?

• Explore Château Royal where the kings of Majorca lived

• Get a culture-fix at the Museum of Modern Art with works from Collioure resident, Henri Matisse

• Drive the D86 from Collioure to Banyuls-sur-Mer and take in some wine tasting on the way

• Take to the waves and cruise to the lively seaside resort of Argelès-sur-Mer

What the kids will love?

• Le Plage de Collioure as well as three other beaches to choose from

• Le Petit Train Touristique de la Cote Vermeille with its fantastic views over the city

• Marvel at the medieval weaponry at Fort St. Elme Museum

• Prepare for a drenching at Frenzy Waterpark outside Perpignan

• Jump, abseil and zipline at Canyoning Park, Argelès-sur-Mer

How to get there

By air

Perpignan is the nearest airport with Ryanair and easyJet flying from UK airports.

By road

Driving to Collioure is just under 13 hours from Calais via Paris.

By rail

Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris, then the TGV from Paris to Perpignan - just over 8 hours travel time.