11 original winter activities and outings in the Pyrénées-Orientales
The days are getting shorter, the colors of the landscapes are changing, the temperatures are dropping...winter is here. You live in the Perpignan region where you are passing through holiday or for a weekend ? You wonder what to do in the Pyrénées-Orientales in winter ? That's good, you've come to the right place! We had the idea of presenting our 11 favorite winter outings and activities. Not the ones found everywhere, on all websites. Not the most obvious ones, like going skiing in the Pyrenean resorts. No, these are our favorites, tested and approved. Of the ideas that are sometimes original, sometimes & unmissables, to go from beautiful days en Catalan country :
What to do in the Pyrénées-Orientales in winter: conquer the mountains!
It's'winter, you want to montagne, but not necessarily skiing? No problem, the massif of the Pyrenees-Orientales offers a wide range of hobbies and activities very nice to do during the winter season. Various ideas for enjoying nature and the magnificent mountainous landscapes:
1/ Canyoning in hot water in Thuès
To start, let yourself be tempted by a unusual outing : the hot water canyoning ! Located in Thuès-entre-Valls, on the road to Catalan ski resorts, this canyon is unique in Europe. The water can reach up to 60°C! In other words, you won't be cold at all!
This original activity is accessible to all, beginners, advanced and children from 12 years old.
Program : superb abseiling under waterfalls from 6 to 35 meters, fantastic natural slides and hot water basins for lounging...
For a friendly outing in complete safety, hire a qualified guide !
2/ Excursion to the animal park of Les Angles
We can already hear you saying to yourself: “No, not a zoo with animals in cages! » We reassure you right away, the Angles animal park is not a zoo. It is a large forest of 37 hectares, divided into large enclosures bringing together animal species endemic to the Pyrenean massifs. The natural environment of the animals and the flora have been respected to the maximum.
You will be able to observe izards, wild boars, ibex, wolves, bears, reindeer, deer, roe deer, marmots, etc. But the enclosures being very large, to have a chance to see them, we advise you to be discreet. At the slightest noise, the animals will hide...
Find here all the information about Angles animal park.
3/ Dog sledding
Of course, the mountain is ideal for hiking or snowshoeing. But if you want to think outside the box, test the dog sled ride ! It's a wonderful way to explore the region's beautiful fir forests.
Sliding in the middle of a magnificent landscape whitened and padded with snow is ideal. But be aware that the sleds can also be equipped with wheels, for outings in the forest, even without snow!
See more information on the website of the Pyrénées-Orientales tourist office.
4/ Exhilaration of speed on the monorail toboggan run
If you want thrills, go for the Lou Bac Mountain monorail toboggan run ! A descent 2 meters long, over 000 meters of elevation, with speeds of up to 430 km/h, believe us, it's mind-blowing!
Accompanied children and adults are invited to receive a good charge of adrenaline, in the heart of the forest!
The track is at the corners. To find out more, see Lou Bac Mountain website.
5/ Ride on the little yellow train
And if to go down again in the Roussillon plain, you opt for slow tourism, in eco mode ? (Of course, it also works in the other direction, to go up to Cerdagne…)
Essential in the region, the little yellow train is a real institution! He links Villefranche-de-Conflent (427 meters above sea level) at Latour-de-Carol (1 meters above sea level). 232 km (in three hours) through the Pyrenean mountain. This is a great opportunity to quietly admire the splendid landscapes of the Tet Valley and cerdan tray.
For all the information on the route, fares and timetables, go to the Pyrenees Cerdagne Tourism website.
Book your hot water canyoning trip with Extérieur Nature!
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Outings on the Pyrénées-Orientales coast: the seaside even in winter!
Who said you can only enjoy the sea in summer? THE Mediterranean coast is packed with nuggets that can be enjoyed all year round, including in winter ! Fauna, flora, coastal landscapes, heritage and culture: embark on our ideas for winter outings by the sea !
6/ Observation of migratory birds at the pond of Canet-en-Roussillon
Ranked among European Natura 2000 sites, Canet pond is made up of a very rich lagoon ecosystem.
Throughout the year, nearly 200 species of migratory birds call it home. In winter, you can observe the great egret and kingfisher and of course flamingos. The nesting period begins in February. You will then be able to see purple herons, as well as other migratory species.
The icing on the cake: admire the breathtaking landscape, with the fishermen's huts, the breathtaking view of the Canigou and sublime sunsets!
More information on Canet-en-Roussillon tourist office website.
7/ Long walk on the coastal path
In Eastern Pyrenees we are lucky to benefit from fantastic weather, often with blue skies without clouds, even in the middle of winter. When the wind isn't blowing, our favorite ride is definitely the coastal path.
The route takes about five hours, so plan a picnic break. From Port Vendres à Banyuls-sur-Mer, Through the Cape Bear, Bay of Paulilles, Fourat beach and Elmes beach, this circuit offers everything the Catalan rocky coast more beautiful!
Le website of the Pyrénées-Orientales tourist office details all the practical information.
8/ Nature and culture outing in Collioure
It is no longer necessary to present Collioure, as this small port is emblematic of the Catalan country. Its pretty pebble beaches, its bell tower, its colorful alleys and its Catalan boats are all the charm of the charming town of Collioure. In winter, the colors and the light are exceptional and… there are no hordes of tourists like in summer. This is definitely the best time to walk there.
Stop off at royal castle, which can be visited all year round. And borrow it path of fauvism, in the footsteps of Matisse and Derain, to the House of Fauvism.
For more information, visit the Collioure tourist office website.
Towns and countryside of the Pyrénées-Orientales: a natural and cultural heritage to explore in winter
No need to go to the mountains to enjoy the Pyrénées-Orientales in winter ! There the countryside and the pretty Catalan cities offer remarkable places and sites to visit. Between nature, gastronomy and culture, there is something for everyone:
9/ Geological discovery at the organ of Illes-sur-Têt
For a original walk in nature, we strongly recommend the organs of Illes ! Over the centuries, erosion has shaped astonishing sand and clay formations, ten meters high. They look like fairy chimneys or… organ pipes, hence their name!
Follow the small paths and get lost in the middle of these fascinating columns. And take the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside!
For more information, here the Pyrénées-Orientales Tourism website.
10/ Getaway to Céret
If you like to stroll in the pretty villages, schedule a short getaway to Ceret ! You will enjoy exploring this charming small Catalan town.
Stroll through its charming alleys, cross the Devil's Bridge and visit the famous modern Art Museum. For foodies, don't miss the stalls of local producers during the Saturday morning market! And let yourself be tempted by the small authentic restaurants in the area.
A cultural and gourmet outing not to be missed! All the practical information can be found on the Tourism Vallespir website.
11/ Visit Perpignan — capital of the Pyrénées-Orientales
Finally, we could not not talk about Perpignan ! It would take a complete article to list all the sites, monuments and activities offered by the city... We have selected the essentials, ideal for taking care of the weekends and winter holidays :
- The old center : the Castillet, the sea lodge, the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, the Campo Santo, the Pams hotel, the colorful alleys, etc. The best way to visit the city center is to get lost in the pedestrian streets!
- The Palace of the Kings of Majorca : a magnificent fortress and gardens dating from the XNUMXth century, well preserved and restored. The palace also houses a very interesting exhibition on Perpignan garnet.
- Le Hyacinthe Rigaud museum : in the heart of a beautiful mansion in the city center, discover the permanent exhibition, including a collection of works by Hyacinthe Rigaud, famous portrait painter of Louis XIV. Every year, temporary exhibitions are organized, with interactive workshops suitable for the whole family.
To discover all activities, outings, leisure and visits to Perpignan, go to the tourist office website.
You will understand, we are quite simply completely in love with our beautiful region! Between sea and mountain, nature and culture, heritage and gastronomy, even in winter, you never get bored in the Pyrénées-Orientales !
And if at spring next or during the summer season you are looking for ideas for nature outings with friends or family, Come and visit us ! We welcome you to our outdoor amusement park, with fun and varied activities: Tree Climbing park, tubing, outdoor escape game, restaurant, picnic areas by the river.
We also organize all your outings canyoning, Rafting, hydrospeed, via via ferrata et climbing in the Pyrénées-Orientales and the Aude.
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