NEW EXCURSION “PAULILLES”

We are delighted to offer you the opportunity to enjoy an accompanied visit to the “Bay of Paulilles” with its interesting story across the years and, at the same time, benefit from a beautiful walk. This area is a real jewel of the Catalan coast and this excursion allows you to experience the beauty of the natural environment at the same time as its culture and history.

A unique heritage

The Bay of Paulilles, nestled between Cap Béar and Cap Oullestrell (both classified sites) takes you into a fabulous story. This former NOBEL (of the Nobel peace prize fame) dynamite works has been re-modelled in an exceptional manner in respect of both history and the environment. It’s an area which allows you to relax, and sense the calm, all whilst walking between the sea and the green vine covered hills and flower rich fields. This is why the Bay of Paulilles is, today, considered to be one of the best spots along the Catalan Coast.

From the “Col de Les Portas” above the village of Port Vendres, the Bay resembles a real oasis of greenery, with a covering of vines and sparkling leaves at the foot of the Albères with their carpet of schist.

Original flora and fauna

As you discover the different parts of the site you cannot fail to be impressed and fall in love with its natural beauty and variety: the exotic square with bananas, palms and eucalyptus; the pines along the coast giving natural shade just behind the beach…. the oak and olive trees, different varieties of pines; flowering plants, the view of the Pyrenees, the marine life.. You may also be able to see numerous different species of birds, some of which are considered rare.

A guided visit

During the visit, you will be invited to view the four different displays which sum up the uniqueness of this place – the 3D model of the Côte Vermeille, the plan of the factory site and the processes before its closure, the journey the dynamite took across the world and finally, the 3D model of the site as it is now. A visit with the climb up the former water tower, transformed into a look-out post, allows you to gain a panoramic view of the site and the coast. There is also a large building which houses the Catalan barge restoration display and workshop where local folk dedicate their time to ensuring the continuance of the local sea-faring heritage.

The excursion to the Bay of Paulilles “Discover history through the soles of your feet!”

• Excursion led by the team from Le Dauphin
• Cost : 13€ per adult, 11€ per child
• Duration: Approximately 2h30 walking between Cap Béar and the Bay of Paulilles
• Guided visit around the small museum and the catalan barge workshop
• An apéritif with local products

The team at Le Dauphin wish you an excellent walk whilst discovering the history of the area.