My travels to the Languedoc-Rousillon area of France were an amazing and enlightening experience that I’d like to share. This is the southwestern Mediterranean coastline of France, west of the Cote d’Azur or French Riviera and Provence, and east of the Pyrenees mountains.

There is a lot to know about this region, but let’s start with the comparison of the two sections of coastline.  The French Riviera is known for beautiful beaches and high profile tourists in Nice and Cannes and Marseille. The Languedoc-Rousillon area of the coast is much rockier, although they are sea rounded stones, so easy on the feet.

The clear water of the Med against the colorful houses of Collioure.

The water is equally clear and beautiful in both places, but the towns in the Languedoc-Rousillon area are not as popular with tourists…..yet….and so still unspoiled and old world.

The colorful shops of Collioure

The first town we visited, right on the Mediterranean was called Collioure and if you’re a fan of Fauvism, you might recognize some of its scenery in the paintings of Matisse or Derain. This is a medieval trading port, fought over by Spain and France until 1659 when ownership was claimed by France in the Treaty of the Pyrenees. You can see the Spanish influence in the architecture and brightly colored buildings, but also in the language spoken here, which is Catalan.

The colorful Catalan boats used to fish for sardines.

The primary industry here is sardine fishing and there are still Catalan boats in the port which were used by the fisherman.

The tower to the right, now part of the church, was originally a medieval lighthouse.

The history is evident in the Royal Castle, originally mentioned in 673 AD but added to and changed numerous times from the 13th century on. The church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges uses the old medieval lighthouse tower as part of its worship space. But the narrow cobblestone roads, and the numerous beaches, along with the views of the Mediterranean are what make this town so idyllic. The shops, galleries and restaurants that line the roads entice you to shop and spend time enjoying the beauty and fresh sea air. The Mediterranean calls to you for a swim….or at least to dip your toes!

I couldn't resist…..

Next, we’ll travel to Perpignan………….