Villefranche-de-Conflent

This former commercial town was the capital of Conflent and has kept exquisite traces of its history and of its status as a defensive site. For instance, the ramparts and La Viguerie tower, both built by the Count of Cerdagne in the 11C, then strengthened with fortifications added by architect Vauban in the 17C and the Fort Libéria, recently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, or the stalls and houses that belonged to leading citizens or rich traders.

Villefranche is an eleventh century medieval town fortified by Vauban in the seventeenth century. It lies at the foot of the Canigou at the heart of the Pyrenees. Within the fortifications, its narrow lanes are home to local crafsment and picturesque shops.

Check out the Grotte Grandes Canalettes

The Grandes Canalettes Grotto is 300 metres from the Medieval City of Villefranche-de-Conflent on the road to Corneilla de Conflent and Vernet-les-Bains in the Pyrenees Orientales.

This is one of the largest and most dramatic grottes that I have ever seen and well worth a visit.

Some Accommodation in the area