Tourism in Barcarès and the Pyrénées-Orientales
Discover the treasures of the Pyrénées-Orientales during your stay at La Croix du Sud campground. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, explore a unique region where fine sandy beaches, picturesque villages, and majestic landscapes come together. Enjoy a variety of activities, from hikes in the Pyrenees to walks along the Mediterranean coast. Immerse yourself in a region rich in culture, cuisine, and history for an unforgettable vacation under the southern sun.
Whatever you’re looking for during your next camping trip in the Pyrénées-Orientales, La Croix du Sud **** invites you to discover all it has to offer!
Must-Do Activities Near the Campground in Barcarès
You won’t have to go far from your campground in Barcarès to find a wide variety of activities to enjoy with family or friends.
- The Little Yellow Train in Villefranche-de-Conflent: Discover breathtaking scenery aboard this iconic Pyrenean train, perfect for a picturesque family getaway.
- Leucate Adventure Tree-Climbing: Test your agility on courses suitable for all ages, set in an exceptional natural setting.
- Saint-Thomas Hot Springs: Relax in these natural hot springs, perfect for a moment of relaxation.
- The Garnet Workshop: Immerse yourself in local craftsmanship by visiting this place dedicated to creating unique garnet jewelry.
- Enjoy water sports: wakeboarding with Wake 66, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and water skiing
- Explore the Mediterranean seabed with passionate professionals at Le Poulpe Dive Center .
- Enjoy the beaches of Barcarès
- Explore the Port of Barcarès and the surrounding area
The Vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon: A Terroir Worth Exploring
From the right bank of the Rhône to the Pyrénées-Orientales stretches one of the oldest—and also one of the largest—vineyards, covering nearly 300,000 hectares. Cultivated since time immemorial in Languedoc-Roussillon, the art of winemaking has evolved over the centuries to offer today’s refined wines from the Pyrénées-Orientales, whether fruity or full-bodied.
Much more than just a local activity, in Languedoc-Roussillon, wine is a passion, a tradition, and an integral part of the region’s history.
Discover Domaine La Vigne Barbé, our winery in Claira, near the campground.
Perpignan: Cultural and Historical Heritage of the Catalan Region
Less than 30 minutes from the Croix du Sud campground in Barcarès, the Catalan city of Perpignan offers a wonderful glimpse into its history and a beautiful showcase of its heritage. A sun-drenched Catalan gem, Perpignan charms visitors with its blend of French and Spanish cultures. What’s there to see in Perpignan? The narrow streets of the city center reveal a rich history marked by the Gothic architecture of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and the Palace of the Kings of Majorca.
Mediterranean flavors fill the air at the colorful markets, where local produce captivates the senses. Explore Perpignan with your family by bike or on a small train. You can also enjoy the beaches near Perpignan.
Iconic Monuments and Sites in the Pyrénées-Orientales
For a journey through the centuries during a camping trip in the Pyrénées-Orientales, vacationers can look forward to numerous monuments that are well worth a visit.
- Salses Fortress: Visit this impressive 15th-century fortress, a testament to the conflicts between France and Spain, and explore its ramparts and underground passages,
- Notre-Dame des Anges Chapel: Discover this architectural gem nestled atop a hill, offering a panoramic view of the region,
- Tautavel Prehistory Museum: Delve into the history of humanity with fascinating exhibits on prehistoric humans and their discoveries,
- Bélesta Castle–Museum: Combine history and contemporary art at this medieval castle, home to unique collections,
- Palace of the Kings of Majorca in Perpignan: explore this Gothic palace, a former royal residence, and admire its gardens and view of the city,
- Elne Cloister: Soak up the serenity of this Romanesque cloister, famous for its sculptures and its peaceful setting,
- The city of Carcassonne, a fortified medieval city: set out to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its ramparts, castle, and picturesque narrow streets,
- Collioure Royal Castle: Immerse yourself in history as you explore the castle—a must-see destination that combines cultural heritage with Mediterranean scenery,
- Discover the castles of the Pyrénées-Orientales; there are about 15 of them in the department.
Discovering Catalonia and Languedoc-Roussillon
The Pyrénées-Orientales is brimming with exceptional sites that captivate visitors seeking new discoveries and wonder. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, this department offers a variety of landscapes and a chance to immerse yourself in Catalan culture.
The Vermeille Coast: A Mediterranean Gem
Discover the Côte Vermeille, a unique region that enchants history and nature lovers alike. With its wild coves, picturesque villages, and exceptional views, this region offers a complete immersion in Mediterranean beauty.
From Collioure to Céret: Where Art Meets Tradition
With rocky coves and turquoise waters, a fishing port, and hillside vineyards, the Vermeille Coast is a wild stretch of coastline that begins south of Argelès and extends all the way to the Spanish coast at Port-Bou. This arid region produces distinctive, high-quality wines such as Collioure and Banyuls. The Côte Vermeille, a marvelous meeting point between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees Mountains, has managed to preserve its beauty and landscapes intact.
For your cultural visits, use the smart guide to heritage in Catalonia: the “Pass Inter-Sites” allows you to benefit from reduced rates.
The Exceptional Natural Sites of the Pyrénées-Orientales
- Located in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, Mount Canigou rises to an elevation of 2,700 meters and separates the highlands from the Roussillon plain. There are many options for outdoor enthusiasts: hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, exploring Vauban’s fortifications— designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and sampling local specialties.
- The Bouillouse Lakes in the Eastern Pyrenees form a majestic group of 27 lakes and ponds, each boasting exceptional biodiversity. This nature reserve is home to exceptional flora and fauna.
- The marine reserve, France’s first nature reserve established in 1974, protects the Mediterranean seabed. It is home to exceptional marine biodiversity, fostering scientific research and diving in a preserved ecosystem.
- The Dosses site on the shores of the Etang de Salses, a natural area home to nearly 200 plant species and 50 bird species. Discover the rich biodiversity of Mediterranean lagoons at the Dosses nature site.
- Raho Lake: Supervised swimming; new mountain bike and horseback riding trails. Easy access for people with limited mobility.
- Canal du Midi -The locks of Fonserane, The tunnel of Malpas
- The Galamus Gorges, a remarkable natural site with stunning scenery, easily accessible from your accommodations,
- Enjoy the ” Festival des Déferlantes” in Barcarès, a music festival held every year in mid-July. Discover renowned artists and enthusiastic crowds on the Mediterranean beaches,
- Discover the Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt, striking sandstone cliffs sculpted by erosion, which you can explore along a well-maintained trail.
Towns and Cities Along the Mediterranean Coast: A Living Heritage
Our campground in the Pyrénées-Orientales is an ideal starting point for exploring this region, which is highly praised in reviews for its Mediterranean coastline and must-see attractions. No matter the season, take advantage of the best deals to discover this region rich in culture and scenery. Explore the local heritage, capture every moment in photos, and immerse yourself in a travel experience that blends nature and tradition. A memorable stay awaits you in Barcarès, surrounded by the sea, mountains, and picturesque villages with authentic charm.
Discover the most beautiful villages in the Pyrénées-Orientales. During your stay at the campground, explore the charming seaside resorts of the Pyrénées-Orientales : Perpignan, Canet-en-Roussillon, Collioure, Saint-Cyprien.
Sainte-Marie-la-Mer, a charming seaside resort in the Pyrénées-Orientales, captivates visitors with its fine sandy beaches , perfect for relaxing with family or friends. Also discover Saint-Laurent-de-la-Salanque, a charming town in the Pyrénées-Orientales near the Salses Lake, set in a natural landscape typical of the Catalan region.
Torreilles
Torreilles, a true gem of the Pyrénées-Orientales, offers a pristine natural setting nestled between a wild beach and an authentic village. Discover its Mediterranean landscapes, its historical heritage, and its many outdoor activities—perfect for a rejuvenating getaway with family or friends.