Collioure and the Côte Vermeille by van: 6 must-see spots you can’t miss

With turquoise waters, terraced vineyards and colourful fishing villages, the Côte Vermeille is a paradise for van-lifers. Here are our top picks for exploring Collioure and its surroundings, blending untouched nature with Catalan heritage.

Picture this: wild coves with crystal-clear water, cobbled lanes scented with garlic and olive oil, and breathtaking views from the heights of the Albères. Collioure and the Côte Vermeille promise total escapism, even on a short campervan trip. From coastal walks and tastings of sweet natural wines to swims in pristine waters, here are the unmissable stops for a perfect road trip. Ready to hit the road?

Le Fort Saint-Elme

Perched on a hill overlooking Collioure, this 16th-century fortress offers unrivalled views of the bay and the Albères. Its ramparts, casemates and turbulent history make it a fascinating visit for lovers of history and landscapes.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Marsouins Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star campsite 800 m from the beach, shaded pitches. 8-minute drive, ideal for families. › Camping Municipal La Pinède Campsite ★ 4.2 Municipal campsite 1 km from the beach, immaculate facilities. 6-minute drive, well shaded. › Parking in the heights of Banyuls-sur-Mer Parking ★ 5 Free hilltop parking, sea views and absolute peace. 6-minute drive, spacious spots. › Parking nature sea view Port-Vendres Parking ★ 4.9 Wild spot with sea and mountain views, untouched nature. 22-minute walk, access via D914. › Seaside parking Banyuls-sur-Mer Parking ★ 4.7 Panoramic parking, spectacular views over Banyuls. 7-minute drive, rocky and quiet terrain. ›

L’église Notre-Dame-des-Anges

This Catalan Baroque gem, right in the heart of Collioure, charms visitors with its detached bell tower and fresco-adorned interior. Its seaside location makes it a must-visit for a cultural and photographic break.

Where to sleep nearby

Sea view parking Coliures Port-Vendres Parking ★ 4.6 360-degree views of Collioure and Banyuls, 500 m altitude. 5-minute drive. › Mas Yala Campsite ★ 4.8 Nature-focused shaded campsite, absolute peace 6 km away. Secure pitches for vans up to 9 m. › Les Criques de Porteils Campsite ★ 4.4 Sea views from pitches, beach 10 minutes on foot. Rated 4.4, 298 reviews. › Train station parking Argelès-sur-Mer Parking ★ 4.5 Free, spacious parking near the station. 6-minute drive, quiet night. › Camping Les Marsouins Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star campsite 1 km from the beach, pool and activities. Free access via mini train. ›

La plage de l’Oullibe

This pebbled cove, reachable on foot from Collioure, is perfect for a swim in turquoise waters. Its wild and untouched setting makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing break between road-trip stops.

Where to sleep nearby

Mas Yala Campsite ★ 4.8 Untouched nature, shaded pitches 5 km away. 6-minute drive, absolute peace. › Camping Les Marsouins Campsite ★ 4.6 4 stars, beach 800 m away. Access by bike or free mini train, 6-minute drive. › Parking in the heights of Banyuls-sur-Mer Parking ★ 5 Free, sea views from the heights. 7-minute drive, calm and spacious. › Les Criques de Porteils Campsite ★ 4.4 Sea views, 19-minute walk from Collioure. Terraced pitches, rated 4.4. › Camping Municipal La Pinède Campsite ★ 4.2 Municipal, 1 km from Banyuls beach. 7-minute drive, shaded and well rated. ›

Le sentier du littoral de Port-Vendres à Banyuls-sur-Mer

This coastal hiking trail links two fishing villages, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Ideal for walking or cycling, it reveals secluded coves and lush nature.

Where to sleep nearby

La liberté à 360° ! Motorhome area ★ 5 360-degree views of the sea and Canigou, free in an organic vineyard. 50-minute walk. › Camping Le Colomer Campsite ★ 3.8 Family-friendly, quiet campsite 5 km away, spacious pitches. 6-minute drive. › Day and night parking with sea view Caixas Parking ★ 4.3 Sloped parking with sea views, very quiet. 6-minute drive (5 km). › Parking with Canigou view Caixas Parking ★ 4.8 360-degree views of Canigou and the Mediterranean, flat grassy terrain. 41-minute walk. › Church paid parking Castelnou Parking ★ 4.2 Parking at the foot of a medieval village, €3 for 24 hours off-season. 37-minute walk. ›

Le Cap Béar

This iconic headland in Port-Vendres marks the boundary between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Its lighthouse and cliffs provide a 360-degree panorama of the coast, perfect for an unforgettable sunset.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Municipal La Pinède Campsite ★ 4.2 3-star shaded campsite 1 km from the beach, immaculate facilities. 5-minute drive (5 km), ideal for comfort and sea access. › Parking with sea view Port-Vendres coast Parking ★ 4.8 2-3 free spaces overlooking Port-Vendres, spectacular sea views. 5-minute drive (4 km), absolute peace. › Paulilles, Port-Vendres Motorhome area ★ 3.9 Free parking near family beaches, 2 motorhome spaces. 33-minute walk, natural atmosphere and close to the sea. › Shaded motorhome area in Port-Vendres Motorhome area ★ 3.2 Coastal overnight area at €8 per night, water and waste disposal, near the coastal path. 28-minute walk, perfect for hikers. › Motorhome area in Collioure Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Only overnight area in Collioure at €15 per night, mountain views and peace. 7-minute drive (6 km), walkable to the centre. ›

Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt

Just a short drive from the coast, this unique geological site in France features cliffs of sedimentary rock shaped by wind and rain. An easy walk lets you admire these spectacular formations, nicknamed the 'fairy chimneys'.

Where to sleep nearby

Free parking Orgues Ille-sur-Têt Parking ★ 4.1 6-minute walk from the Orgues, free and spacious. Toilets and bins on site. › Aire de service camping car de RODES Motorhome area ★ 4.4 Quiet overnight area 6 km away, €5 per night. 6 flat pitches, warm welcome. › Sunset spot parking Bélesta Parking ★ 4.7 Canigou views 5 km away, free. Narrow track but exceptional panorama. › Camping la Garenne Campsite ★ 4.3 Family campsite 38-minute walk away. Heated pool, shaded pitches. › Quiet parking near the canals in Ille-sur-Têt Parking ★ 3.8 Canal-side, 45-minute walk, free. Peaceful night, tricky access for large vehicles. ›

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