Harbour view of Port-Vendres
One of our favourite things to do is to visit Port-Vendres. You can walk from Collioure along the main road to this next town or it is an easy drive of only 5 minutes. As you come over the hill, it is obvious that Port-Vendres is a working fishing village. Being a deep-water port, you will see a variety of ships – everything from small fishing vessels to freighters to cruise ships. Many use this location as their access point to the Côte Vermeille.
The Romans, who called it Portus Veneris after the goddess Venus, originally developed port-Vendres. It went on to be ruled by the Kingdom of Majorca and was used as a mainland port between the Balearic Islands. The French took it over in 1659 when the Roussillon area changed hands. In the late 1700’s there was extensive work done to open up, enlarge and modernize the area. As a result it is the only natural port along this rocky coastline.
The Romans, who called it Portus Veneris after the goddess Venus, originally developed port-Vendres. It went on to be ruled by the Kingdom of Majorca and was used as a mainland port between the Balearic Islands. The French took it over in 1659 when the Roussillon area changed hands. In the late 1700’s there was extensive work done to open up, enlarge and modernize the area. As a result it is the only natural port along this rocky coastline.
Port-Vendres offers visitors much to do. There are numerous sea activities including fishing, scuba diving, boating, jet skis and swimming. The wonderful Banyuls wineries sit in the hills atop Port-Vendres and are a must do for anyone enjoying the sweet unique wine of the region. Port-Vendres also enjoys many festivals during the year including fishermen and Catalan celebrations along with painting and artist’s exhibits. But one special thing about this town is that they are really known for their excellent seafood restaurants. Having the benefit of the catch of the day literally at their doorstep, many small restaurants line the streets and water’s edge.
Picturesque main street
Cafe at the fish market One place in particular that we enjoy – isn’t a typical restaurant but a café that is located above the fish market. When we first visited this location, it was in the back of a warehouse with simple counters where you could choose from a menu on a blackboard. Recently the Port-Vendres fish market has built a new building just to house their seafood storefront and they created a stylish café on the second floor with wonderful views of the harbour. The store has absolutely everything you would ever want to purchase. All freshly caught that day. Fish, seafood and delicacies that are unique to the region and incredibly tasty!
Oyster bar
We love to order fresh oysters along with a flute of sparking wine and sit for a casual snack. We tell everyone that visits Collioure to add this to their list of things to do. It is a real treat to experience the tastes of the area.
Check out the Port-Vendres website for all the things you can experience in this small but bustling fishing town.
Check out the Port-Vendres website for all the things you can experience in this small but bustling fishing town.
Fresh seafood
Catalan delicacies
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