With tiny villages scattered across the Pyrenees Mountains, the French Cerdagne region is a quaint and enchanting rural destination. Wildflowers grow along the green mountains surrounding the lakes of this historic territory on the Spanish border. While visiting Cerdagne go on a walking trip to enjoy the utter serenity in this picturesque terrain.
As one of the sunniest parts of France, the region was chosen for solar-related experiments. Arrive in Odeillo to see a remarkable shiny instrument that reflects and distorts the stunning valley and mountains around it. This is the largest solar furnace in the world, made up of 10,000 mirrors. Watch the demonstrations and peruse the displays to learn about the effects of the sun’s rays and the types of experiments carried out here.
The area was long fought over by the Spanish and French. Visit the fortified town of Mont-Louis to learn about this history. Stroll through the preserved ramparts of the 17th-century Mont-Louis Citadel that was constructed by preeminent architect Vauban.
Move on to Angoustrine-Villeneuve-des-Escaldes to use the thermal waters in the area. Relax in the hot waters, which are said to have healing properties, in one of the spas. A little north is the spectacular Lac des Bouillouses, whose forest trails are ideal for picnics. In winter, go skiing on the slopes of Les Angles or Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via.
Cerdagne makes up the northern half of the historic Cerdanya region on the Spanish border. The southern part belongs to Catalunya and Spain. Drive north from central Barcelona for 110 miles (180 kilometers) to get here in 2 to 3 hours. While in this part of southern France, travel to other surrounding districts such as Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Catalanes, Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Ariégeoises and Parc Natural del Cadi-Moixeró.
The French Cerdagne ranks as the sunniest spot in France, with an extraordinary solar furnace and thermal water spas.
