The Mediterranean and the mountains are closer together here than in any other region of France. From the sea, the view stretches to 2,000-metre-high mountains, and when hiking in the mountains you can see as far as the sea. Another special feature is the mix of French and Spanish-Catalan culture: food, wine, art and history from both cultures.

There is so much choice: nature lovers can explore the mountains on foot or by bike, there are great shopping opportunities in Perpignan, the ports have been trading places since Roman times, you can visit the famous market in Figuréres (Spain), culture and history lovers can visit the cathedrals of Perpignan and Elne, the Dali Museum in Figuréres or walk in the footsteps of the French painter Henri Matisse in Collioure. Meanwhile, the extensive (sometimes more than 100-metre-wide) natural sandy beaches plus the small idyllic bays and green vineyards of the rocky coastline attract walkers, water sports enthusiasts and sun worshippers alike.

The region is rich in history, has lots of interesting things to do and see, is famous for local food and wine and offers a unique mix of southern French and Spanish/Catalan culture. It is an ideal destination for activities such as walking and cycling – whether for gentle bike rides with the family or on a racing bike/mountain bike – as well as swimming, snorkelling, rock climbing, water sports such as canoeing, diving, stand-up paddling and windsurfing, plus golf, tennis and horse riding. In the winter, the closest ski resort in the Pyrenees is just a 90-minute drive away. In the period from Easter to October, the weather is generally warm with low rainfall, making it an ideal region for outdoor pursuits.