The Pyrénees Orientales, locally known as the PO, is still one of the lesser-known regions of France and this is why you should hurry to get there before the masses. Bordering Spain between mountains and sea, it is the side of France that you might not know existed.
The PO region offers so many travel choices, events and activities, that you might well be planning your second trip before you finish your first.
MARCH | Easter Procession de la Sanch
Starting off with the unique Easter Procession de la Sanch, this tradition is more than 6 centuries old. It is held in the medieval city of Perpignan where participants dressed in unique and bizarre costumes celebrate this most important catholic event, marching through the street of the city. A rare sight worth discovering!
JUNE | Summer Solstice Celebrations
Come and celebrate the summer solstice at the Feux de la St Jean festival which celebrates in the PO the brotherhood of the 2 Catalonias on each side of the border every year on 23 June.
JULY | Summer Festival 66
Throughout July enjoy this entirely free cultural extravaganza under the Catalan sun; With over 400 artists performing an eclectic mix of music from jazz, rock, classical, flamenco to electro, in unique historical sites, you can discover the region's cultural heritage through music, at next to no cost!!!
JULY | Festivales Déferlantes - International Music Festival
Held each year in Argelès-sur-Mer, this music festival has seen the likes of Elton John, Sting, Patti Smith, Manu Chao to name but a few perform on its stage. So book online to get your tickets for 2020 at festival-lesdeferlantes.com and you'll get to dance in the amazing park of the Chateau Valmy for some unforgettable moments; This year's line up boasts amongst others Tones & I, The Black Eyed Peas, Angèle and Gwen Stefani.
JULY | Electro Beach Festival
It is one of France's largest electro festival held in the seaside resort of Bacarès. electrobeach.com
SEPTEMBER | Visa Pour L'image - a celebration of photojournalism from around the globe
This renowned international festival is purely dedicated to photojournalism and each September thousands descend on the city of Perpignan to visit its 20 exhibitions on display throughout the city. A unique way to discover some wonderful historical sites as well as amazing photographers and their works from every corner of the globe. visapourlimage.com
Need Accommodation? Studio vert is your perfect basecamp!
Aside from all these events punctuating the year, there are timeless nature and historical sites to explore throughout the region. Nestled between sea and mountains overlooking the Rousillon, only 25 min from the beaches of Argelès and from the artist town of Collioure and 35 min to Perpignan, Studio Vert is your perfect vegan basecamp to explore the best parts of the PO. Contact us now and we can help you organise your next well-deserved holiday!