Among the many beaches along the coast, we recommend especially:
- Le Racou beach at Argeles-sur-Mer (5 mins by car – 20 mins walk)
- La Balette beach at Collioure (10 mins drive)
- The Bay of Paulilles’ beaches between Port-Vendres and Banyuls-sur-Mer (20 mins drive)
In the 4th paragraph, you’ll find a list of beaches that have been awarded the “Pavillon Bleu” label.
1 – Le Racou beach – the nearest
Le Racou (which means “corner” in Catalan) is a small charming hamlet located 2 km away in the foothills of Albères. In 1957, the inhabitants created the “Racou free commune”, decreed the independence of the hamlet and elected a mayor! 50 years after this declaration of independence (which has never had legal value), this village has kept a peaceful family atmosphere.
Last big sandy beach before the rocky coast, you will appreciate its diverse landscape, its view of the cliffs and beach houses. You can reach this beach by walking the coastal path.
2 – La Balette beach at Collioure – the most beautiful view of the belfry
Fancy a swim when you walk in Collioure? We recommend this little pebble beach.
The view of Collioure and the church Notre Dame is beautiful.
The beach is located just below the 1 star michelin restaurant La Balette. You access the beach by the coastal path.
3 – The Bay of Paulilles’ beaches between Port-Vendres and Banyuls-sur-Mer
This bay is a favorite of the Catalans. You are spoiled for choice with five beautiful beaches.
We particularly recommend the beaches of Balanti and St. Catherine.
Park your car in the parking lot of the Bernardi beach and walk on the coastal path towards the Cape Bear.
You will not find the fine sand of Argelès-sur-Mer but turquoise water beaches, calm and a magnificent view of the Albères.
We invite you also to visit the old dynamite factory rehabilitated by the General Council – Presentation
4 – Beaches awarded the Blue Flag label
The Blue Flag is a distinction awarded to beaches, marinas and leisure centres for their exemplary environmental management. To obtain the Blue Flag, candidates must meet strict criteria divided into four main categories:
Environmental education and awareness
Setting up educational activities to raise public awareness of the local environment.
Display of information on ecosystems, natural sites and eco-responsible behaviour.
Water quality
- Regular monitoring of water quality to ensure compliance with health standards.
- Frequent sampling and analysis to detect any pollution.
Environmental management
- Presence of selective sorting bins and waste management programmes.
- Use of environmentally-friendly products to maintain public spaces.
Services and Safety
Accessibility for people with reduced mobility.
First-aid posts and safety equipment to guarantee the safety of bathers and boaters.
You will find below the list of beaches near the hotel Les Mouettes that have obtained this label:
Argelès
- Marenda beach
- Central beach
- South beach
- Racou beach
Port-Vendres
- Bernardi Beach
- Factory beach
Banyuls-sur-Mer
- Central beach
Saint-Cyprien
- Beaches Art PS1 and PS2
- Harbor beach
- Capellans beach PS4
- Lagoon beach PS6
Canet-en-Roussillon
- Sardinal beach
- Roussillon beach
- Central beach
- Open sea beach
- Marenda beach
- Mar Estang beach
Official website : www.hotel-lesmouettes.com
Blog : blog.hotel-lesmouettes.com