The 9 things to do in Castelnou

How to visit Castelnou, the time of a stay? Here are the 9 essential things to do in Castelnou, this friendly village of the Pyrenees-Orientales!

Small village of the South France Castelnou is a village built on the hillside of barely three-cent inhabitants. Count among more beautiful French villages Castelnou offers a wonderful little journey in time. In order not to miss anything, we have concocted you a list of the must-sees to visit in Castelnou.

Built by its castle dating from the 10th century, the city is a real moment of escape, discovering ancient monuments and offering a beautiful walk inside the fortifications of the village.

Want to discover one of the treasures of the Pyrenees-Orientales? Here are the nine essential things to do in Castelnou!

1. Walk in the village

The best way to visit Castelnou is to take a walk in the village. A short walk, the number of streets is limited, but sporty because you will climb! The first thing we notice is the excellent conservation of fortifications. It is believed to be in the Middle Ages, when the village had to defend itself from a possible external invasion!

The most remarkable building is the door of Millars, always flanked by its two monumental towers. It symbolizes the entrance of the old village surrounded by its ramparts. On the outskirts of the promenade you will find small architectural treasures, flowery houses, rare shops and restaurants. A village that has preserved all the charm of medieval times.

2. Château Vicomtal

In Catalan, Castelnou means "new castle". The village owes its name to its imposing castle, which dominates the city since the 10th century and a must to visit in Castelnou. Many times destroyed and rebuilt, its present appearance has nothing to do with the initial that is unknown to us.

A symbol of the village, it offers a superb view over the valley. Unfortunately, the castle is still closed to the public for security reasons. Good news, however: its reopening is planned for 2020. So you'll find out before you get there.

3. Tour de Castelnou

Historically, the tower is linked to the castle. In the Middle Ages, his role is to report by smoke the arrival of unknown people. Located at the top of a hill, it is easily accessible after a small walk outside the village.

More than the tower, it is the panorama from the top that you enjoy the most!

4. Scenic market of Castelnou

Visiting Castelnou in the summer without going to the picturesque market is missing something! Every spring Tuesday, local producers and artisans come to exhibit their various and varied products.

Here you can find a honey mix, olive oil and organic bread, as well as goat cheese. As for craftsmen, they exhibit products in leather, glass or iron. A real discovery of the region's know-how.

5. Saint Mary's Church of Mercadal

Dating from the 13th century and built outside the fortifications, the church, which owes its name to the medieval market, is one of the must-sees to visit in Castelnou. Remarkably preserved, the current building differs very little from that of origin.

It is famous for hosting a sundial engraved in the rock, above the entrance door, as well as some masterpieces of baroque art. The interior of the church is visited by appointment to the city hall.

6. Local gastronomy

Difficult to visit Castelnou without succumbing to the region's culinary specialties! If the village itself does not have a speciality in itself, the small area of the Aspres, around the Canigou and which houses Castelnou, has a plethora.

For example, the bunyete, a sort of doughnut, the cargolade, a dish based on snails, the Catalan turkey, a confectionery, and finally the Byrh, a spirits. More broadly, it is possible to taste the Catalan specialities (Catalan Cream, Catalan Chicken...). Enjoy!

7. The Priory of the Monastir del Camp in Passa

Visiting Castelnou is also discovering its surroundings. Among them, the Monastir del Camp is an obligatory passage. Ancient monastery, welcoming monks from the 12th century, the building is well preserved and is a testimony of the mix between Roman and Gothic arts. The monastery is notably known by its superb cloister dating from 1307.

8. Hiking in Canigou

Among the activities to be done in Castelnou, the hike is the most popular. No, not only in the village despite the denial, but towards the peak of Canigou, located nearby. Many trails lead to the top. If all are, let us recognize it, difficult, the view from the heights is breathtaking and a great reward of the efforts provided.

9. Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Tet

Do you want something original to visit in Castelnou? Visit the Orgues d’Ille-sur-Tet, amazing sand and clay formations, located a few kilometres from the village. Over the centuries, erosion has made that these geological curiosities bring together to a church organ, hence their name. It’s a good idea for a walk too since it’s possible to walk around!

How to get to Castelnou?

By car

Located close to Perpignan , the road to visit Castelnou is not very difficult but the journey can be long.

• From Marseille : count about 3h10 road via theA55,A7 andA54, a few off-road passages then theA9 up to Perpignan, for an estimated toll 26€. After Perpignan, there are fifteen kilometers on a departmental road;
• From Lyon : the journey is fast, about 4h20, as it is possible to take the highway to Perpignan (A7 then A9for a cost of approximately 43€ of tolls;
• From Paris : the journey takes about 8 hours via theA10,A71,A75 andA9 up to Perpignan, for a cost of approximately 60€ Toll.

By train

The station of Perpignan is only 20km from the village, so it is possible to get there by train. However, it is necessary to rent a car for the rest of the stay.

By plane

Perpignan-Rivesaltes Airport is 25km away. Once landed, the rental of a vehicle is essential.

Do not hesitate to consult a flight comparison site as Skyscanner to find the right combination.

Where to stay in Castelnou?

There are few dwellings in the village. For example, there is no hotel. Only rare apartments or guest rooms, always in stone buildings, are available for booking. A nice change!

As the area of the village is not extended, there are dwellings in the middle of nature around the dwellings, for a time of escape away from the urban tumult. It is also found in neighbouring villages, especially in Thuir.

To find your accommodation, do not hesitate to check out Compare hotels or Airbnb to experience a more authentic experience.