Each morning when we wake up, we throw open the shutters covering our bedroom window and look out at the incredible view. To see the Mediterranean each day is truly a wonderful sight. The sunrise from Saint Vincent beach is stunning and no matter the time of year, it is lovely to watch the brightening of the sky with the quaint Chapel of Saint Vincent in the foreground.
The tiny Chapel was originally built on an island in 1701. The main purpose was to shelter the relics of Saint Vincent, the patron saint of Collioure. Legend has it that Saint Vincent was martyred on this very rock in 303. It is a very nice spot to sit and enjoy the views of the Cote Vermeille and out beyond to the bright blue sea.
From the Chapel, stretches a peninsula that was created to help protect the inner u-shape of the Collioure bay. You can walk along this narrow stone structure right to the end, however, make sure it is not too windy when you go! On a calm day the view is spectacular and a perfect spot for taking pictures of the whole town. It is especially beautiful at sunset.
Each year during the middle of August, Collioure celebrates the Festival of Saint Vincent. Many events and activities take place over several days including demonstrations of Catalan boats, dances, concerts, street music and a fabulous fireworks display. The Catalan Procession on the Sea is the highlight – it is quite an amazing ceremony.
We are fortunate to have a home in a town that is so colourful and packed with amazing culture. The memory of Saint Vincent Chapel and the sunrise on the beach is certainly something that we keep close in our hearts between visits to Collioure.
The tiny Chapel was originally built on an island in 1701. The main purpose was to shelter the relics of Saint Vincent, the patron saint of Collioure. Legend has it that Saint Vincent was martyred on this very rock in 303. It is a very nice spot to sit and enjoy the views of the Cote Vermeille and out beyond to the bright blue sea.
From the Chapel, stretches a peninsula that was created to help protect the inner u-shape of the Collioure bay. You can walk along this narrow stone structure right to the end, however, make sure it is not too windy when you go! On a calm day the view is spectacular and a perfect spot for taking pictures of the whole town. It is especially beautiful at sunset.
Each year during the middle of August, Collioure celebrates the Festival of Saint Vincent. Many events and activities take place over several days including demonstrations of Catalan boats, dances, concerts, street music and a fabulous fireworks display. The Catalan Procession on the Sea is the highlight – it is quite an amazing ceremony.
We are fortunate to have a home in a town that is so colourful and packed with amazing culture. The memory of Saint Vincent Chapel and the sunrise on the beach is certainly something that we keep close in our hearts between visits to Collioure.