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Port-Vendres
On the Occitanie Rail Tour
Discover Port-Vendres
Port-Vendres (Portus Veneris, “Port of Venus”) is thought to have been founded by the Phoenicians, around a cove that served as a harbour for galleys. From 1679 onwards, it developed as a military port and fortified town under the influence of Vauban. Today, Port-Vendres is the 2nd fruit port in the Mediterranean. You'll love its authentic harbour atmosphere, both cosmopolitan and typically Catalan.
Must-see
In Port-Vendres, take bus line 540 for a 10-minute trip to Paulilles Cove, a listed natural site on the Vermeille Coast.
In Port-Vendres, you'll enjoy:
- Walking to the quays to watch the ballet of large merchant ships entering and leaving the port.
- Taking the bus to go paddle-boarding in the magnificent Paulilles Cove or, for wine-lovers, visiting Les Clos de Paulilles wine estate and tasting their wines.
- Hiking along the coastline trail towards Banyuls-sur-Mer, passing Cap Béar and its magnificent lighthouse.
- Taking advantage of all the possibilities offered by Port-Vendres, a hotspot for scuba diving, underwater observation, and sea outings. See the Activities tab below.