Banyuls-sur-Mer, nicknamed "La Lumineuse", is located on the Côte Vermeille, where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean. This seaside resort is particularly popular for its magnificent beaches and secluded, protected coves, while having preserved a rich heritage that is a must-see. Banyuls is also a picturesque fishing port with typical staircase lanes, famous for its natural sweet wine that can be tasted while admiring the sea. The town was also the birthplace of Aristide Maillol (1861-1944), one of the greatest French sculptors of the 20th century. A small but magnificent museum is dedicated to him, as is an itinerary entitled "In Aristide's footsteps". Zoom in on the must-sees on this unmissable getaway from the Côte Vermeille, one of the most beautiful spots in the Pyrénées-Orientales, and its surroundings, such as Collioure, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Occitanie.
1. Mas de la Serre Mediterranean garden
Nestled in an exceptional setting, the Jardin Méditerranéen du Mas de la Serre is the terrestrial part of the Biodiversarium. Situated on a three-hectare site in the hills above Banyuls-sur-Mer, it offers visitors a pleasant moment of relaxation and discovery. The tour, which offers a magnificent view of the hinterland, takes in two outdoor areas: the themed terraces and the discovery trail, which highlights the natural management of the environment. Inside, temporary and permanent exhibitions, always instructive and varied, complete the visit. Benefiting from a mild microclimate thanks to its south-facing conch sheltered from the tramontane wind, the garden is home to a rich Mediterranean biodiversity. Over 500 plant species can be found here.
2. Musée Maillol - La Métairie
Aristide Maillol (1861-1944), a native of the region, never cut ties with his native village. He had a studio in Marly-le-Roi, but regularly returned to the family home in Banyuls - known as "la maison rose" - to recharge his batteries and devote himself to painting, tapestry and sculpture. Later, he acquired and restored this small farmhouse in the Roume valley, so that he could work in the peace and quiet of the beautiful Catalan countryside he so cherished. From 1910, the farmhouse became his haven of peace, his hermitage. Maillol would spend the last years of his life here, roaming the mountains, drawing, cooking and meditating, in this simple universe amidst a landscape he considered the most beautiful in the world. Today, the métairie is a museum run by the Dina Vierny Foundation, housing 36 statues - bronze and terracotta - as well as some fine photos, lithographs and objects illustrating Maillol's life. You can also visit the beautiful kitchen and dining room, with its laid table ready to welcome guests. You can also watch a moving short film dedicated to him, shot in Banyuls a few months before his death... In the lovely garden, the statue of La Méditerranée (1905) stands serene watch over his grave. A unique place where the artist's soul floats.
3. The Biodiversarium
The Biodiversarium is made up of two complementary sites brought together to present the biodiversity of the Pyrénées-Orientales, and in particular that of the Côte Vermeille. The Aquarium was created in 1885 by the University of Paris. Most of the region's species can be found here. Bream and groupers are displayed in natural settings identical to those found on the rocky coast. The aquarium also serves as a showcase for the Arago laboratory, one of Europe's largest marine biology centers, where some 180 researchers and technicians work around the clock. The Mas de la Serre Mediterranean Garden, located on the Route des Crêtes, combines walking and observation of the varied flora of the coast on a 3-hectare site, with exhibitions, fun workshops, educational activities, discovery trails and themed terraces overlooking the Baillaury valley.
Book your sea kayak trip from Banyuls-sur-Mer along the sublime Côte Vermeille right here !
4. Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette chapel
When you arrive in Banyuls, you're sure to have seen this little white building perched on the hillside overlooking the town. It is in fact a chapel founded in 1863 by Bonaventure Reig, following a vow made to Notre-Dame de La Salette in Isère. With its simple architecture, its whiteness inevitably evokes other Mediterranean shores. Surrounded by pines and oaks, at an altitude of 200 meters, it overlooks Banyuls and its vine-covered hillsides. It's a place of gentleness and serenity, offering a splendid view. However, the chapel is not open to the public. To get there, the road is narrow, so it may be better to take the tourist train or walk. An attractive, fairly steep footpath takes just 30 minutes.
5. The underwater trail
Explore the underwater flora and fauna of the Cerbère-Banyuls marine nature reserve in a whole new way! From Peyrefite beach, discover the rocky seabed by swimming on the surface or by snorkeling, equipped with mask, snorkel and flippers. This safe 250-metre underwater trail, marked by a water line, offers five observation stations, each illustrating a different ecosystem: pebbles, posidonia meadows, boulders, faults and drop-offs. The stations are marked by numbered buoys and underwater information panels, while lifeguards ensure safety. Music accompanies the return to the beach. This 500-metre round trip requires swimming skills and good physical condition. It's a unique, educational and entertaining experience.
Whether on your own or with a guide, admire the beauty of the underwater world of the Cerbère-Banyuls National Nature Reserve thanks to snorkeling at Cap Cerbère by booking right here.
6. The Banyuls-sur-Mer tourist train
After passing through the village, the little tourist train takes you on a tour of the Banyuls vineyards along a charming, steep, narrow road of wild beauty. The tour includes commentary in several languages, and the scenery is magnificent. From the Notre-Dame de la Salette chapel, you can enjoy a truly panoramic view. Don't forget your camera! On the way back, stop off at the Terre des Templiers underground cellar for a tasting of dry and sweet wines. The Banyuls-sur-Mer tourist train departs from the seaside resort's tourist office every day from April to September.
7. Templar lands
The guided tour of this vast cellar, which pays tribute to the work of men, is a must-see of the seaside resort. You'll discover the superb and imposing tuns room, where you can see the huge two-hundred-year-old vats on either side. The tour continues with a tasting of dry and sweet wines. By appointment, Terres des Templiers can also organize guided tours through the vineyards and offer tastings of great vintages. The welcome is impeccable and the whole team extremely friendly.
8. Discover Maillol's statues
Artist Aristide Maillol left an indelible mark on his hometown with his monumental female sculptures. Strolling along the waterfront, you can admire emblematic works by the artist, such as "L'Action enchaînée," "L'Air," and "L'Île-de-France," all created in bronze. As you stroll through the city, you'll also discover "La Jeune Fille Allongée," "Monument aux morts pacifiste" and "Esquisse à l'Harmonie." These sculptures, with their generous, harmonious forms, celebrate the beauty of the female body and invite contemplation. A visit to Banyuls-sur-Mer is a must.
9. Farniente on the beach
Of course, a trip to Banyuls-sur-Mer, one of the top destinations for beach vacations, is synonymous with long, lazy days on the beach. The small, family-friendly Plage des Elmes is perfect for young children. Grandes Elmes beach offers a peaceful setting ideal for paddle boarders and snorkellers. The central beach, also known as Plage du Fontaulé, in the heart of the village, is protected by arcades. Finally, Peyrefite beach, the wildest in the area, is home to the underwater trail. Don't forget your sun cream!
10. Getaway to Argelès-sur-Mer
Less than 20 km away, Argelès-sur-Mer is a family-friendly seaside resort with an exceptional location at the foot of the Albères mountains, the last links in the Pyrenean chain. This location has encouraged strong demographic growth, making Argelès-sur-Mer the third-largest town in the département. During the summer season, this figure can easily be multiplied by ten, as the town is Europe's camping champion, with dozens of establishments. Argelès-sur-Mer is in fact the old village, with its shops, services and year-round activity. Argelès-Plage, the seaside resort 2 km to the east, attracts thousands of tourists from all over Europe during the two months of summer, and calms down once the season is over. Further south, you'll find Port-Argelès, the last marina to be built on the coast, and finally, before tackling the Côte vermeille, the last white-sand beach of Le Racou and its charming cottages.
11. Escapade in Collioure
While Perpignan's must-see sites are also within easy reach, Collioure, just 12 km away, is the real jewel of the Catalan coast. The village of Collioure, with its many must-sees, has retained all the charm of its historic old town, famous since the time of the kings of Majorca. And immortalized by the greatest painters of the 20th century. Picturesque little streets of indefinable charm, a unique church with its emblematic bell tower, a light and gentle southern atmosphere, a mighty castle bordered by delightful little beaches, all combine to make Collioure the most visited site in the department and one of the most beautiful villages in the South of France. In the early 20th century, Matisse and Derain, dazzled by the luminous, serene sky and the small fishing port, immortalized the place on their canvases. They brought fame to this sumptuous village, which is best explored on foot through its steep, flower-filled alleyways, lined with tall, colorful houses. You'll feel the special atmosphere that makes Collioure one of the department's treasures, with one of France's most beautiful beaches. A great getaway in an ideal spot for a successful weekend in France.
12. Scuba diving
There are some extraordinary trips, and this is one of them. In the Banyuls-Cerbère marine reserve (ranked among France's most beautiful diving spots), the Pyrénées-Orientales unveils a rich underwater world, accessible to all, that's full of wonders. Whether snorkeling (fins, mask and snorkel) or diving with a scuba tank, beginners and experienced divers alike can discover rocky scree bottoms and beautiful coralligenous formations, home to sars, gilthead breams, groupers, corbs, dentex, rays, barracudas... Adventurous divers can explore the wrecks of Le Bananier, L'Astrée, Le Saumur, Le Saint Lucien and Le Pythéas for memorable dives.
Tempted? Take a 3-day diving course and pass the French Level 1 diploma, allowing you to dive to a depth of 20 meters in total autonomy by booking right here.
Are you an Open Water Diver or above? Then enjoy an exploration dive in the Parc Naturel Marin du Golfe du Lion from Argelès-Sur-Mer by booking right here.
13. Try the local gastronomy
Catalan cuisine resembles the diversity of landscapes in this beautiful region, between sea and mountains, colorful and fragrant. Firmly rooted in its Mediterranean territory, it features fresh vegetables and sun-drenched fruits, as well as starches, olive oil, garlic, thyme, herbs from the garrigues, dried fruit, honey and spices. Here, plates sing with a southern accent, accompanied by the melody of the cicadas. Added to this are all the riches of the Grande Bleue and a wide variety of meats, including poultry, lamb, rabbit, veal, wild game and pork, which is a constant in Catalan cuisine, contributing to the gastronomic reputation of the charcuterie de pays. And when it comes to Catalan cuisine, it's impossible not to mention the "petit gris" snail , which occupies a very special place in our gastronomy. As for sweets, Catalans are renowned for their sweet tooth, and almonds and pine nuts are widely used. Varied, colorful and fragrant, this cuisine is sure to please at Banyuls' finest tables!
Where to stay in Banyuls-sur-Mer?
Located on the heights of Banyuls, this hotel with terrace, pool and spa boasts a Mediterranean cuisine restaurant. Charming! Click here to book your stay in just a few clicks.
Hotel with swimming pool, sauna and hammam located between the sea and the mountains of Banyuls-sur-Mer. Côté Thalasso is a unique place where the view alone is a source of pleasure and well-being. Click here to book your stay in just a few clicks.
For a stay with your feet in the water, the Hôtel des Elmes welcomes you to its establishment with direct access to its private beach. Heated pool too. Click here to book your stay in just a few clicks.
What to do in Banyuls-sur-Mer when it rains?
On the (rare) rainy days in Banyuls-sur-Mer, there are plenty of things to see and do. There's the Maillol museum, of course, to discover the local artist, but also the Biodiversarium, a must-see for the whole family. Wine shops like Terres des Templiers are also a good idea.
What are the best walks around Banyuls-sur-Mer?
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, mild weather and a privileged environment, it seems obvious that outdoor activities are very popular around Banyuls-sur-Mer, especially hiking. In fact, the seaside resort is the starting point for the GR10, a legendary trail that crosses the Pyrenees between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. The Col de Banyuls, the paths leading to the Madeloc tower or the Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette chapel. Then it's time to consider one of our top destinations for mountain vacations or summer in the great outdoors.
