Welcome to Canet-en-Roussillon, Perpignan's favorite seaside resort, just 12 km from Perpignan. This charming coastal town in the south of France is a destination of choice for lovers of the sea, nature and heritage . With its picturesque old village, its fine sandy beach stretching for almost 3 km and its pond listed in the Natura 2000 European Ecological Network, Canet-en-Roussillon offers something for everyone. In this article, we invite you to discover the must-do activities in Canet-en-Roussillon.
1. A stroll through the old village of Canet, a trip back in time
A former stronghold perched on a hill, the Old Village of Canet invites you to take a trip back in time, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Occitanie. Start with the château vicomtal, built in the year 1000. Within the castle walls, the lords of Canet built a fortified chapel, a large round tower used as a cistern and an impressive ice well, now listed as a French monument. While strolling through the narrow streets of the old town, you should also visit the southern Gothic church of Saint Jacques and the Galerie des Hospices, which hosts numerous exhibitions throughout the year (paintings, sculptures, photos...).
Discover our article What to see and do in the Pyrénées-Orientales? The 21 most beautiful places
2. Sunbathing on the beach at Canet
Canet-en-Roussillon has a lot to offer when it comes to beaches. The seaside resort offers 9 km of fine sandy beach to satisfy all holidaymakers' desires: Blue Flag swimming, sailing, catamarans, windsurfing, surfing, stand-up paddling, kite surfing, jet skiing and diving. It's the perfect way to spend a sporty vacation on the shores of the Mediterranean! The sandy beaches are equipped with top-quality restaurants, numerous lifeguard posts and freshwater points.
3. Stroll along the Vasarely-designed baladoir in Canet
For an original walk near Perpignan, take the baladoir de Canet, designed in the 1980s by Vasarely, the famous optical artist. This iodized, sporty walk takes you along the sea to the marina, one of the largest in Occitanie. Take advantage of the walk to admire Vasarely's works of art and breathe in the sea air. The promenade is accessible to all and offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. A free, enjoyable activity for families and friends alike.
4. Canet Saint-Nazaire lake
Visit the étang de Canet-Saint-Nazaire, located at the foot of the famous Canigou mountain and listed in the European Natura 2000 network of ecological sites, to observe the pink flamingos and 200 other species of migratory birds that stop off here. This picturesque fishing village is home totraditional huts built from reclaimedwood and reeds cut on the banks of the pond. Eel fishing is carried out using the "trabaque", an 80-metre-long tunnel-shaped net. You can also observe species rare in Europe, such as the red-throated pipit and the kobez falcon. Guided walks with a naturalist are available on site.
5. Visit the Oniria Aquarium in Canet-en-Roussillon
Canet-en-Roussillon is an ideal destination for family vacations! Take advantage of your stay to dive into an immersive adventure at the Oniria Aquarium in Canet-en-Roussillon. The main theme of the visit is water and its various physical states, symbolized at the outset by a simple drop. Follow this drop through the planet's different biotopes, from the summit of the Canigou mountain to the depths of the ocean abyss. Oniria's journey is made up of ten universes (mountain, beach, jungle, tropical forest, underwater world tour...). Join us in the projection room to learn more about the vast aquatic world, thanks toCyril Tricot's magnificent reports and documentaries. An aquarium for the whole family to discover and enjoy!
6. The Canet Arboretum
If you're looking for an outdoor activity in Canet-en-Roussillon, don't miss a visit to the Arboretum de Canet. Covering an area of 11 hectares, this green space is home to an impressive collection of 900 species and varieties of trees, many of them ancient and rare. The collection is divided into two groups: plants from all five continents and fruit trees. During guided tours organized in summer, you and your family can discover the different tree species and learn more about their history and origins.
7. Take advantage of the cycle paths for some great bike rides
Canet-en-Roussillon is a destination of choice for family cycling enthusiasts. In addition to its beautiful beaches, the Catalan seaside resort boasts a number of charming cycle paths for exploring the surrounding area. Leaving from the port of Canet, the "Le Tour du Port" circuit takes you on a 7.5 km tour of the aquarium, the old riggings quay and the old village. If you prefer a stroll in the countryside, leave Canet village fora walk through the vineyards of the Roussillon plain. You'll discover the Old Village, the Château des Hospices, the Arboretum, the Mas Baux and the Château de Rey over a distance of 14 km.
8. Wine tasting at Château des Hospices
Château des Hospices owner Marc continues a long-standing family winemaking tradition. The sea breezes bring beneficial humidity to his vines, while the Mediterranean climate and stony soils give his wines a unique personality. We particularly appreciated the Cuvée Grande Terre Rouge, made from two parcels of old Syrah and Grenache Noir vines. We also recommend the new sulfite-free "original version" cuvée, which offers an explosion of fruit on the palate. A supple, gourmet wine, full of freshness, a must-discover!
9. Scuba diving in Canet-en-Roussillon
Now's the time to try scuba diving at Le Barcarès, 15 minutes from Canet-en-Roussillon. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, you'll explore the seabed at a maximum depth of 6 meters for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your preference: from the beach, from a boat, or even at night! Whether you choose to make your first dive alone with the instructor (Solo) or with a loved one (Duo - each with their own instructor), this diving experience in Le Barcarès will leave you with fond memories of your first underwater getaway near Perpignan!
Click here to take advantage of our partner's special rates and book your diving experience!
10. Take a trip on an electric boat without a license
Discover the magnificent waters of Saint-Cyprien, 15 minutes from Canet, by renting an electric boat without a license from Les Petits Bateaux de la Lagune right here. This is your chance to discover the beauty of the Saint-Cyprien lagoon, exploring its crystal-clear waters, secluded coves and picturesque beaches. Take advantage of the calm of electric boating to observe the local flora and fauna, admire the birds and relax to the rhythm of the water. Electric boat rental without a license is perfect for couples, families or groups of friends looking for a fun day on the water.
11. Pony rides for children
This is an ideal activity for vacations with children! With this pony ride in the Pyrénées-Orientales, near Saint-Cyprien, your child can discover the equestrian world in complete safety, accompanied by a professional instructor. You can also accompany your child on this experience and hold his or her pony for the duration of the outing. You can choose between a 30-minute or hour-long ride by booking right here. This in-hand ride near Saint-Cyprien is accessible to children aged 2 to 8. The ride will take place in the fields and forests surrounding the equestrian center and will depend on the child's level of riding.
Where to stay in Canet-en-Roussillon?
Canet-en-Roussillon offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are three possible options:
- Best value for money: Hotel Saint Georges
Located on Canet's seafront, opposite the main beach, the Hotel Saint Georges is a family-run establishment par excellence, offering excellent value for money. The bright, air-conditioned rooms are arranged on the seafront, around the pool or on the patio. There's only one reason to stay here: "You jump out of bed, cross the street and you're on the beach"! Click here to book your stay.
Located just 150 m from the beach and marina, the Hôtel du Port is perfect for a stay on the Mediterranean. Rooms are comfortable, air-conditioned, soundproofed and all have loggias. Some have magnificent sea views. For your meals, the hotel boasts a restaurant serving traditional, high-quality cuisine, which you can enjoy on the hotel's lovely terrace. An address that the Petit Futé really appreciated! Click here to book your stay.
- The ideal option for a relaxing stay: Le Galion
Le Galion is ideally located just 150 meters from the beach. Here, calm and relaxation are the order of the day. You'll find total relaxation once you've taken a dip in the heated pool. In summer, you'll be able to sip one, two,... cocktails in the comfort of a deckchair after a day on the beach: a real pleasure! You can also take advantage of your stay at Le Galion to pamper yourself with a thalasso treatment at one of our prestigious partner centers... Tempted? Click here to book your stay.
What to do in Canet-en-Roussillon when it rains?
Although Canet-en-Roussillon is renowned for its sunny Mediterranean climate, it can still rain during your stay. Fortunately, there's still plenty to do and see in the region, even on a rainy day. Here are just a few suggestions:
- Discover the local wines: The Canet-en-Roussillon region is renowned for its wines. You can visit local wineries and vineyards to discover the region's wines and learn more about the wine-making process.
- Visit the Oniria aquarium: Canet-en-Roussillon's Oniria aquarium is an ideal place to discover marine life while staying dry. Here you can admire numerous species of fish, sharks, turtles and much more.
- Shopping: Canet-en-Roussillon has several shopping centers and numerous boutiques in the town center. You can take advantage of the rain to go shopping and bring back souvenirs of your stay.
- Relax at a spa: If you're looking to unwind and recharge your batteries, why not spend a day at a spa? Canet-en-Roussillon has several wellness centers offering body and facial treatments, massages and hammam or sauna sessions.
What are the most beautiful villages to visit around Canet-en-Roussillon?
The region around Canet-en-Roussillon is packed with charming villages that are well worth a visit. Here are just a few of them:
- Collioure: located around 25 km south of Canet-en-Roussillon, Collioure is a picturesque fishing village nestled in a sheltered bay. The village is famous for its royal castle, Notre-Dame-des-Anges church and narrow streets lined with colorful houses.
- Castelnou: Located around 30 km west of Canet-en-Roussillon, Castelnou is classified as one of France's most beautiful villages. Perched on a hill, the village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the cobbled streets, shady squares and medieval castle.
- Céret: located around 30 km west of Canet-en-Roussillon, Céret is a lively town known for its modern art museum, pedestrian streets and lively squares. Visitors can also explore the remains of the ancient fortress and the church of Saint-Pierre.
- Elne: locatedsome 15 km south of Canet-en-Roussillon, Elne is a historic village that boasts a Romanesque cathedral, a cloister and the ruins of an ancient fortress. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area from the hill on which the village is perched.
Where to walk in Canet-en-Roussillon?
Canet-en-Roussillon offers numerous walking opportunities for visitors. Here are just a few ideas:
- The Promenade de la Jetée: this 2 km-long promenade runs along the Canet-en-Roussillon beach, offering a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. Ideal for a stroll with family or friends.
- The sentier du littoral (coastal path): this 10 km-long hiking trail runs along the coast between Canet-en-Roussillon and Argelès-sur-Mer. It offers magnificent views of the sea, beaches and coves.
- The old village of Canet: the historic center of Canet-en-Roussillon is a charming medieval village with cobbled streets, shady squares and ancient buildings. A stroll through the old village reveals the Saint-Jacques church, the Château Vicomtal and the Tour de l'Horloge.
- The port of Canet: Canet-en-Roussillon's marina is a pleasant place to stroll and admire the boats. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to relax in.
Family activities in Canet-en-Roussillon
Canet-en-Roussillon is an ideal destination for families, with many child-friendly activities. Here are a few suggestions for family activities:
- Swim and play on the beach: Canet-en-Roussillon boasts several kilometers of fine sandy beaches, with supervised swimming areas and playgrounds for children.
- Visit the Aquarium Oniria: this aquarium offers an immersive, fun experience to discover the different states of water and the marine species that live there. Activities and workshops are also available for children.
- Go for a bike ride: Canet-en-Roussillon boasts a number of family-friendly cycle paths, allowing you to explore the surrounding countryside in complete safety.
- Discover the Arboretum: this botanical park houses a collection of over 900 species of trees from all over the world, as well as play areas for children.
- Take part in a treasure hunt: Canet-en-Roussillon's tourist office offers treasure hunts for families, providing a fun way to discover the town and its surroundings.
- Take a boat trip: several companies offer boat trips departing from Canet-en-Roussillon, to discover the region's coastline and seabed.
Tempted by our selection? You might also like our article on The 15 most beautiful Cathar castles to visit in Occitania.
Take a look at our train fares and book now!
