Château de Castelnou: A Medieval Fortress
Discover Château de Castelnou, a beautifully preserved medieval castle with stunning views and a rich history in the heart of the Pyrénées-Orientales.
Explore the Château de Castelnou, a remarkably preserved medieval castle dating back to the 10th century, which served as the military and administrative capital of the Viscounty of Vallespir. Wander through vaulted rooms, palatial halls, and enjoy panoramic views from the terraces.
A brief summary to Castle Castelnou
- Place du Château, Castelnou, 66300, FR
- +33468846920
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds, especially during peak season.
- Take time to explore every street and alleyway in the village to discover picturesque corners and hidden gems.
- Check the official website for special events, such as theatrical tours and medieval days, to enhance your visit.
- Stop at the official lookout point on the D48 road for a beautiful panoramic view of Castelnou.
- Consider purchasing local wine from the cellars near the château to savor the flavors of the region.
Getting There
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Driving
From Perpignan, take the D900 to the roundabout at Pont Trencat. Then, follow the D612A, D615, and D48 to Castelnou. Be aware that parking in Castelnou is paid, costing €3 for the day in the tourist parking area at the bottom of the old village and around the church. During peak season, parking spaces fill up quickly, so arrive early. There are also three parking spaces reserved for people with reduced mobility at the château reception area.
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Public Transport
From Perpignan, take the line 570 bus towards Thuir and get off at the 'THUIR - Piscine' bus stop. From there, take a taxi to Castelnou. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes, and the taxi ride to Castelnou is about 7 minutes. A taxi from Thuir to Castelnou typically costs between €25-€35 [estimation based on taxi fares in the area]. The bus fare is around €2 [estimation based on local bus fares].
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