Banyuls-sur-Mer sits on the Mediterranean coast in the Pyrénées-Orientales region of southern France. This charming seaside town is tucked into a natural bay, just a short distance from Collioure and Port-Vendres. Unlike the lively streets of Collioure, Banyuls-sur-Mer offers a more peaceful, laid-back atmosphere—perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
The beach, a lovely mix of sand and pebbles, feels spacious and welcoming. A scenic boardwalk runs along the seafront, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. Just behind the beach, a variety of restaurants and bars invite you to relax. Many serve set lunch menus—below 20 euros, gets you a three-course meal, perhaps starting with tuna tartare, followed by a fresh fish fillet, and a dessert to finish. Local specialities often include grilled or smoked vegetables, spicy meatballs, olives, and even grilled snails—perfect for experiencing the rich flavours of the region.
Aristide Maillol: Banyuls-sur-Mer’s Artistic Legacy
Banyuls-sur-Mer is the birthplace of renowned French sculptor Aristide Maillol. As we wandered through its charming streets, we came across several of his artworks, including The Young Lady Reclining near the port. His former home has been transformed into a museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into his life and artistic legacy. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in sculpture or French art history.
Quiet Streets and Colourful Facades
Shops are tucked along the winding pedestrian streets, adding to the town’s cosy, unhurried charm. Even in the peak of summer, we were surprised by how quiet it felt—just a few people wandering, no crowds, no rush. The houses looked freshly painted, their bright colours giving everything a warm, cared-for feel. I loved how the balcony doors and railings matched so perfectly, as if the whole town had been thoughtfully designed to be as charming as possible.lace.
Beaches of Banyuls-sur-Mer: From Lively to Tranquil
This charming seaside town sits just north of the Spanish border. Banyuls-sur-Mer is known not only for its stunning architecture and deep Catalan roots but also for its beautiful beaches. Some of the finest in France can be found here, with sheltered coves perfect for a refreshing swim.
Fontaulé Beach, the most central, has a lively atmosphere with bars, restaurants, and even a carousel for children. It’s a great spot for water sports like diving and kayaking, making it popular with both families and adventure seekers.
Sana Beach, near the Helio-Marin Centre (also called Sana), offers a peaceful retreat. Close to the quieter Elmes Beach, it’s a lovely stretch of sand for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more relaxing setting.
The beaches are all within easy reach of each other, and you can walk between them in under an hour—perfect for exploring the coastline at a leisurely pace.
Wine, Memories, and a Return to Domaine Tambour
South of Banyuls-sur-Mer, the coastal road leading towards Cerbère takes you to a hilltop parking area, where the winemaker Domaine Tambour offers their wines. In 2018, their Doré Doux won a Gold Medal at a wine competition in Paris.
We’ve always enjoyed Domaine Tambour’s wines and make a point of stopping there to restock our wine cellar. This time, we also bought a box of their award-winning Doré Doux.
For two years running, we found ourselves visiting the same shop, and each time, I was recovering from a broken leg. The shop owner clearly remembered us, especially as I’m Asian – which probably made me a bit easier to recall! But what really stayed with me was how we were drawn back not just by our circumstances, but by the irresistible charm of their wines. We couldn’t leave without buying a box of six bottles to take home, ensuring we could enjoy a taste of the region long after our trip had ended. Now, each bottle holds a special memory.
Travel tips for Banyuls-sur-mer
Trains and buses from Carcassonne run regularly to Banyuls-sur-Mer, providing easy access to this charming town. If you’re coming from Barcelona, the high-speed TGV train takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach Banyuls-sur-Mer. Alternatively, there are also bus connections for those who prefer a different mode of transport.
For those driving, simply follow the D914 from either the north or south of the village. This scenic route will take you straight to this delightful seaside destination.
Banyuls-sur-mer looks like a beautiful town of which I never heard of..infact it took me some effort to pronounce the name itself. I loved reading about the place and would love to have around here