Strolling through the streets, the visitor eventually comes to the looming and impressive Ch?teau Royal. This vestige of the Cathars, a Christian sect ruthlessly repressed by the Catholic church in the Middle Ages, may not be as majestic as the fortress of Carcassonne to the north, but adventures through the labyrinth tunnels under the chateau and up the winding stone staircase that leads to its roof result in breathtaking perspectives both on the past history and current landscape of Collioure. Fortified in 1677 by Louis XIV’s famous strategist Vauban, the palace presents the curious with permanent exhibits of regional history and changing exhibits of modern art.
An enjoyable way to appreciate the natural beauties of the land is from a vantage point out at sea, by taking a trip in one of the many brightly colored boats offering inexpensive promenades en mer. Le St.-Laurent will take you south along the coast to Port-Vendres and on to Cap Bear. Longer cruises travel as far as the port of Spain at Cerbere, and every trip helps to gain a different perspective on Collioure, revealing the verdant moutains that seem to push against the Spanish style red roofs of the quietly huddled four-story houses.
