Castelnou

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Back to the Middle Ages

Just over 20km from Perpignan at the forefront of the Massif du Canigou, the village of Castelnou stands on a rock overlooking the Vallespir. The medieval village ‘par excellence’ revolves around its famous castle at the top of this beautiful part of Occitanie with its lush, unspoilt countryside and fascinating history. Apart from its present-day renown which attracts many visitors, Castelnou was the centre of much attention and ambition during the Middle Ages because of its strategic position.

Castelnou is a charming blend of medieval buildings and unspoilt vegetation, steeped in history and with a wonderful air of serenity. It is a lovely place to stay with superb views of the Massif du Canigou and the whole region from its 450m summit.

In addition, Perpignan and the Mediterranean, the Spanish border into Catalonia via Le Perthus round off the total change of scenery provided by the region.

One of the « Loveliest Villages in France »

Castelnou 2 — It is impossible to talk about Castelnou without mentioning its main attraction : the medieval castle at the top of the hill. Built around 990, the impressive five-sided building with crenelated ramparts inspires all the respect due to a medieval edifice. Attacked and besieged by James II of Majorca during the Aragon Crusade of 1285, it was later handed back before being given away or sold on many occasions for political reasons. The castle is completed by a watchtower on the neighbouring hill which is still in excellent condition.

Period gateways, armour and other instruments used during war in the Middle Ages complete the tableau depicting the castle’s history. It has been the subject of numerous restoration projects which have allowed it to regain part of its former glory, making it the main attraction in the village along with the church of Sainte Marie Del Mercadal.

As proof of its attractiveness, Castelnou was voted 7th in the classification of the « Loveliest Villages in France ».

At the heart of Occitanie, very close to Catalonia

Once you have visited the village, continue your discovery trip of the myriad of natural and cultural attractions in Pyrénées-Orientales. The ever-visible Massif du Canigou provides the backdrop for walks in the area, even to the top of the 2,800 summit if you are feeling brave ! Perpignan has plenty of places to see including the Couvent des Minimes dating from 1575 or the Palais des Rois de Majorque, a magnificent 13th century Gothic building, once the centre of the short-lived Kingdom of Majorca.

Carry on from Perpignan towards the coast and Canet-en-Roussillon with its fine sandy beaches and generous sunshine. To the north, the Etang de Leucate is a great place for water sports like kite-surfing and windsurfing. Continue along the coast to Banyuls-sur-Mer then on into Spain, Catalonia to be more precise.

Useful information

Access and Transport

From Perpignan, take D900 to roundabout at Pont Trencat. Then take D612A, D615 and D48 to Castelnou.

Address and contact details

66300 Castelnou

Tel. : 04 68 28 32 38 (Office de Tourisme)"