Banyuls-sur-Mer, just along from beautiful Collioure on the Vermilion Coast, is a wonderful seaside holiday destination. Active adventurers will appreciate the plethora of outdoor pursuits on offer in the area, whilst beach-goers can kick back on the sand and foodies can savour the delicious fresh cuisine of south-western France. Relaxed and family-friendly, our pick of the best places to stay in Banyuls-sur-Mer reflects the feel of the town itself.
Stroll along the palm-studded seafront esplanade, sunbathe on pebbled beaches, build sandcastles or sample ice creams as a family. There are a whole host of water sports on offer, including kayaking, wind surfing, kitesurfing, fishing and boat trips, as well as opportunities to go hiking, horse riding and mountain biking further inland. The Banyuls-sur-Mer area is famed for its fantastic vineyards, and you’ll find excellent tours and tastings at reputable wineries such as Terre des Templiers, Domaine Berta Maillol and Domaine Tambour, amongst others. Hikes around the Coll de Banyuls, a mountain pass between France and Spain, are magical.
For a more culture-focused experience, tour Musée Maillol — dedicated to sculptor Aristide Maillol — and visit the Biodiversarium or the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Salette. Close to the beach, our pick of the best places to stay in Banyuls-sur-Mer is a brilliant base for soaking up the town’s many attractions with ease.