On diegoenfrance.com I share authentic and detailed guides about the most beautiful villages in France.
This article about Castelnou is based on my own visit to the village, exploring its streets, its castle and its surroundings, with the goal of helping you plan an authentic, safe and enriching family trip.
Why visit Castelnou?
Castelnou is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in France, with a castle that dominates the valley, charming stone streets, and a natural setting that is perfect for disconnecting. Castelnou is ideal for those looking for an authentic getaway, far from mass tourism, and to enjoy with the family.
What you will find in this article
- A complete tour of what Castelnou and its surroundings offer.
- Practical tips and recommended activities for a family plan.
- Clear and useful information to organize your visit and make the most of it.
ℹ️ Population in Castelnou, France: 295 inhabitants in 2020. Source INSEE
⭐ If when planning your visit to Castelnou you want to add an urban getaway, Perpignan is the ideal option. A vibrant city, with history, Catalan architecture and a family-friendly atmosphere.
👉 Discover what to do in Perpignan with this complete guide to enjoy this gem of southern France with your family.
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Tourism in Castelnou: a journey through time in one of the most beautiful villages in France
If you are looking for a different destination for your next family trip, Castelnou in France will steal your heart.
This small medieval village, located in the south of France, in the heart of the Eastern Pyrenees, looks like something out of a fairy tale.
As soon as you arrive, time stands still. The walls, the cobbled streets, and the castle watching from above invite you to discover it slowly, without rushing.
On my blog I want to show you those authentic corners of France, far from the crowds. Castelnou is one of those places that still keeps its soul. Here you won’t find large hotels or mass tourism. You will find history, nature, small shops, and the warmth of a village that welcomes you with open arms.
⭐ Your first trip to Castelnou or to France? Don’t miss these practical tips to plan your trip and avoid surprises.
👉 Read the First Complete Guide of real advice and tips for tourists in France, and travel with peace of mind from minute one.
What to see and do in Castelnou
Castelnou is one of those villages best enjoyed slowly. You don’t need a map: the best thing is to let yourself wander and get lost in its little streets. But there are some places and experiences you simply can’t miss.
Stroll through the medieval streets
✅ Walk recommended by diegoenfrance.com for its universally valuable historical heritage
Walking and sightseeing in Castelnou is like traveling back in time. The stone houses, the flowered balconies, the ancient doorways… Every corner is like a postcard.
On your walk you’ll find charming little details: a hidden fountain, a bench beneath an olive tree, a viewpoint offering incredible views.
❤️ What we love: every step in the village reveals a corner worthy of a postcard.
😉 Diego’s Tip: Don’t forget your camera. The photos here take themselves.
The church of Sainte-Marie du Mercadal
✅ Reviewed by diegoenfrance.com for its historical and spiritual value
Before entering the village, right at the foot of Castelnou, you’ll find this simple church steeped in history.
Built in the 13th century, it was the religious center of the old Mercadal district, where merchants and artisans lived outside the walls.
Its discreet facade hides a stone interior, serene and cool, perfect for taking a short break before heading up to the village. Next to it, the small cemetery offers a peaceful view of the valley and Mount Canigou.
❤️ What I loved: The entrance doors are magnificent!
😉 Diego’s tip: Pause for a moment outside and look up: the contrast between the church, the village, and the castle is one of the most beautiful sights in Castelnou.
Tourism in Castelnou: Discover the artisans’ workshops
✅ Artisan workshops recommended in the diegoenfrance.com guides for their authenticity and quality.
Castelnou is a living village. In its little streets, you’ll find workshops for ceramics, blown glass, jewelry and other traditional crafts.
It’s a lovely plan to share with the kids: watching how the artisans work, talking with them and taking home an authentic souvenir.
The Château de Castelnou: the jewel of the village
✅ Highlighted visit on diegoenfrance.com for its panoramic views and thousand-year-old history.
The Château Vicomtal de Castelnou, France, is impossible to ignore. From any corner of the valley you’ll see it towering over the landscape like a silent guardian of time.
Built in the 10th century, this castle was for centuries a strategic fortress that protected the Vallespir and Conflent regions.
Visiting the castle is not just about walking its walls: it’s a journey back to the Middle Ages, with unforgettable views and corners that invite you to imagine the lives of those who once lived there.
What you will see at the Château de Castelnou:
- The imposing stone walls that still surround the site.
- Defense towers from which the entire valley was once controlled.
- An inner courtyard with remains of ancient structures.
- Temporary exhibitions (in high season there are often art or local history displays).
- Spectacular views of Mount Canigou, the vineyards, and the village of Castelnou itself.
- The chance to walk around the outer perimeter of the castle, offering unique postcard-worthy views.
❤️ What we love: those views over the valley and Mount Canigou that leave you speechless.
💡 Diego’s advice: Access to the castle is via a sloping path. Wear comfortable shoes and, if you can, avoid the hottest hours of the day in summer because the sun can be intense.
⌚ Opening hours: Open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Check the website for updates.
🥪 Picnic area available
🎟️ Rates: €6.50. Under 8 years free. Pass Découverte: €5.50
Hiking and nature nearby
✅ Suggested routes on diegoenfrance.com to enjoy the nature around Castelnou.
If you want to stretch your legs a bit, there are easy trails that start right from the village. Short walks that pass through vineyards, holm oak forests and olive groves.
❤️ What we love: discovering hidden viewpoints that offer unforgettable postcard views.
😉 Diego recommends: the short trail that climbs to a natural lookout with spectacular views of the castle and Mount Canigou. Perfect for a picnic.
More things to do and combine with your visit to Castelnou
If you have a little more time, the region offers authentic experiences that complete a perfect day.
Discover the Caves Byrrh in Thuir: history and wine tradition
✅ Caves highlighted on diegoenfrance.com for their historical value and cultural impact.
Just 15 km from Castelnou, France, in the town of Thuir, you’ll find the famous Caves Byrrh. This place is a piece of the region’s history: since the 19th century, it has produced the legendary Byrrh aperitif, a wine flavored with quinine that is part of the tradition of southern France.
The guided tour is an ideal plan for adults and kids:
- A tour among centuries-old barrels and antique machinery.
- Tasting included for adults (and juice for the little ones).
😉 Diego’s tip: check the schedule for guided tours in English if you prefer explanations in your language.
❤️ What you’ll love: seeing the largest oak vat in the world up close
📍 Address : 2 Bd Violet BP-25, 66300 Thuir
⌚ Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 9:30 am to 11:30 am and 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm
🎟️ Tickets: Free for children under 8. Kids €2.50, Adults €6.50
Visit the Château Musée de Bélesta: archaeology and medieval heritage
About 20 km from Castelnou, the Château Musée de Bélesta combines history and archaeology in a spectacular setting. This 13th-century castle houses a museum displaying prehistoric and medieval finds from the region.
What you will find at the Château Musée de Bélesta
- Archaeological remains from the Bélesta Cave site.
- Pieces that tell the story of how the first inhabitants of these lands lived.
- Amazing views of the surrounding mountains from the castle terraces.
📍 Address : 5 Rue du Château, 66720 Bélesta
⌚ Hours: 2 pm to 5:30 pm. Closed on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
🎟️ Tickets: Free for children under 12 years old. Children 4,50 € and adults 5,50 €.
Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt: a unique natural landscape near Castelnou
✅ Natural site recommended in the diegoenfrance.com guides for its unique beauty.
Less than 15 km from Castelnou, this is one of the most unusual landscapes in southern France.
Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt is a natural site shaped by thousands of years of erosion. Its fairy chimneys, columns and whimsical forms seem from another planet.
What to expect at Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt
- An easy trail (family-friendly) that crosses this natural labyrinth.
- Incredible views and a setting that changes color with the light of the day.
- A magical place for photos and to let your imagination run wild.
❤️ What you’ll never forget: walking among formations that look like they’re from another planet.
💡 Diego’s advice: Go early or at the end of the day, when the light enhances the colors and the heat is gentler.
Three farms near Castelnou to discover as a family
✅ Farms recommended in the diegoenfrance.com guides for their authenticity and educational value.
The region around Castelnou is not only full of history and incredible landscapes. It is also a land of agricultural traditions and know-how.
Visiting a local farm is an experience we always love to do when we visit a charming little village, as it connects us with the authentic life of the countryside.
At these farms you’ll meet the producers, discover their crafts, and taste fresh, high-quality products.
- La Poule Joyeuse : Chem. du Mas de l’Arbre, 66350 Toulouges
- Domaine Busuttil : Els Prats, 66300 Thuir
- La Deveze : D39, 66450 Pollestres
An ideal plan to combine nature, learning and shared moments as a family.
❤️ What we love: tasting fresh, authentic products straight from the farm.
Visit the Canalettes Caves: a natural treasure near Castelnou
✅ Suggested itinerary on diegoenfrance.com for those seeking nature and adventure near Castelnou.
Just about 30 minutes from Castelnou, the Canalettes Caves are a stop that will leave you speechless.
If you’re looking for caves near Castelnou to visit as a family, this is a perfect plan: nature, history, and a spectacular underground setting.
Located near Villefranche-de-Conflent, these caves are famous for their impressive formations and for the natural show they offer underground.
Here’s what to see at the Canalettes Caves and why it’s a unique experience for family tourism in the region.
Visiting the caves is an adventure that fascinates both adults and children alike.
What you will find at the Canalettes Caves
- A comfortable and safe route, suitable for the whole family: exploring the Canalettes Caves with kids is easy and full of surprises.
- Gigantic halls decorated with stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years.
- Light and music displays that enhance the beauty of the galleries and turn the visit into a real show.
During the visit, the temperature is cool and constant, ideal for hot days.
This plan with kids near Castelnou combines nature, adventure and an unforgettable underground moment.
At the end of the tour, the light and sound show transforms the cave into a magical stage.
❤️ What you will love: exploring a unique place that is part of the authentic experiences on diegoenfrance.com.
💡 Diego’s advice: wear non-slip shoes and a light jacket. The caves stay at around 14°C all year.
📍 Address: Route de Vernet les Bains, 66820 Corneilla-de-Conflent
⌚ Opening hours: from 10 am to 5 pm
🎟️ Rates: Children 5 to 12 years old €6. General admission €12.
Map of what to see and do when visiting Castelnou and surroundings
To help you plan your getaway easily, I’ve prepared this interactive map with all the places I recommend in the article: the castle, the church, the caves, the farms and other points of interest near Castelnou.
Use it to plan your sightseeing routes in Castelnou, discover what to do with your family, and make the most of this gem in the south of France.
Pass Découverte: Your Key to Exploring the Region on a Budget
The Pass Découverte en Pays Catalan is a free discovery pass available at local tourist offices and participating sites across the Pyrénées-Orientales, including Perpignan.
This small booklet gives you access to over 70 cultural, natural, and historical sites with special discounts—perfect for expanding your list of things to do in Perpignan and beyond, without breaking the bank.
How the Pass Découverte en Pays Catalan Works
1– Your pass is stamped at your first full-price entry.
2– From your second visit onward at another participating site, you enjoy reduced prices.
ℹ️ The pass is valid for up to 5 people throughout the year (2025 edition, valid through 2026)
❤️ What you’ll love most: saving money on every visit while discovering top destinations like the Caves Byrrh, Tautavel Prehistory Museum, Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt, Fort Bellegarde, and more—without worrying about ticket costs.
This pass is the perfect travel tool to make the most of your time in and around Perpignan—adding culture to your itinerary while staying budget-conscious.
A must for planning your route smartly and economically
Where to eat in Castelnou
After exploring the village, you’ll surely work up an appetite. And eating in Castelnou is part of the experience: good food, local products and views that make you want to stay for hours.
Charming restaurants
In the village itself there are two small restaurants, with shaded terraces and lots of character. Some are in old stone houses or at the foot of the wall.
⭐ ⭐ After exploring Castelnou, there’s nothing better than sitting down at the table and tasting the local cuisine. If you’re traveling with family, these tips will come in handy.
👉 Check out the best tips and advice for tourists in a restaurant in France and make the most of the experience.
The restaurants you’ll find in Castelnou
- A family bistro with simple but tasty dishes: homemade quiches, salads with local goat cheese, regional charcuterie.
- A restaurant with a terrace offering an incredible view of the valley; ideal for a long lunch with a glass of wine in hand.
💡 Diego’s advice: In high season (summer, holidays, weekends), it’s best to book ahead. The places are small and fill up easily.
A picnic with local products
If you prefer something more casual, there are several little shops where you can put together a picnic: freshly baked bread, goat cheeses, artisanal cured meats, fruit from local producers.
There are benches and shady spots where you can sit, eat and enjoy the scenery. And the kids will be happy running around while you savor a good piece of cheese with crunchy bread.
Other charming villages to visit near Castelnou
✅ Suggested destinations on diegoenfrance.com for those looking for authentic and responsible tourism.
If Castelnou steals your heart, don’t miss these other authentic villages in the south of France. They all have that medieval charm, unique landscapes and a perfect atmosphere for a family getaway.
How to get to Castelnou, France
Getting to Castelnou is easy, and the journey is part of the adventure. The roads that cross the vineyards and hills of the Eastern Pyrenees offer landscapes that invite you to stop and take photos.
Getting to Castelnou by car
Castelnou is very well located if you’re coming from:
- Perpignan: only 25 km (about 30 minutes).
- Barcelona: 190 km (about 2h30 via highway).
- Toulouse: 220 km (about 2h45).
Find the best car rental option at RentalCars
The best option is to arrive by car, as this lets you explore the surroundings at your own pace.
Where to park in Castelnou
The village is pedestrian-only, and that’s part of its charm. At the entrance there is a large parking area (paid in high season, free outside the season).
From there, in less than 5 minutes on foot you’ll be inside the walls.
💡 Diego’s advice: if you can, arrive early to find a spot and enjoy the village with fewer people.
🅿️ Parking price €3 for 4 hours.
⭐ Castelnou is an ideal destination to explore by car and enjoy the landscape, but it’s key to know the local rules and tips for driving safely. 👉 Here are the best tips for driving in France, from an experienced driver on these roads.
Achieve maximum immersion
in French culture
Here’s a playlist to listen to while driving these routes
Practical tips for visiting Castelnou
The best time to visit Castelnou
Castelnou is a delight in any season, but spring and autumn are ideal. The weather is mild, the colors of the landscape are at their best, and there are fewer people than in the height of summer.
In summer, the village is livelier with more visitors and fairs, but the heat can be strong at midday, so it’s better to start early.
Accessibility in Castelnou
The village is pedestrian-only and the streets are made of stone and sloped. If you’re traveling with a stroller, it’s best to bring one that can handle those surfaces well or, if possible, opt for a baby carrier.
For people with reduced mobility, access is more challenging, but it’s worth trying to reach at least the main square, where you can already feel the charm of the place.
📷 One last tip: Take your time. Castelnou is one of those places to savor without rushing. And don’t forget to fully charge your phone or camera — you’ll leave with a full gallery.
History of Castelnou: a medieval stronghold in the heart of Roussillon
Castelnou was founded in the 10th century as a key defensive stronghold of the viscounty of the Castelnou, one of the most powerful families in the region. The castle, built on top of the hill, had a clear mission: to watch over the valley and protect the territory from invasions.
Over the centuries, the village grew sheltered by its walls, becoming a commercial and artisanal center. During the wars between France and Aragon, Castelnou suffered sieges and plundering, but its medieval structure remained surprisingly intact.
Today, walking through Castelnou is like traveling through a thousand years of history, in a setting that seems frozen in time.
FAQ about visiting Castelnou and surroundings
Is Castelnou worth visiting?
Yes, without a doubt. Castelnou is one of the most beautiful villages in France and a gem of the south of the country. Its castle, its walls, the cobbled streets and the natural surroundings make it a perfect destination for a family getaway. In addition, it is an authentic place, without mass tourism, where you can enjoy peaceful and responsible tourism.
What is the best time to visit Castelnou with family?
Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting Castelnou: the weather is mild, the landscape is at its best and there are fewer tourists than in summer. If you go in summer, it’s best to arrive early to avoid the heat of the middle of the day and enjoy the village more peacefully.
How much time do you need to visit Castelnou?
Castelnou is a small village that you can explore in about 2 or 3 hours if you just want to stroll through its streets and visit the castle. If you also plan to have lunch there, visit artisan workshops or go for a walk in the surrounding area, I recommend dedicating the whole day.
Where do I park in Castelnou?
The village is pedestrian-only, so you have to leave your car in the parking lot at the entrance. In high season it is paid; outside of high season it is usually free. From there, in just a few minutes on foot, you reach the heart of the village. It’s best to arrive early to find a spot easily.
What to do in Castelnou with kids?
Castelnou is an ideal destination for families. Kids will love exploring the castle and its walls, imagining battles and medieval adventures. Strolling through the cobbled streets, discovering artisan workshops and playing in the village squares are activities they’ll enjoy. In addition, the surrounding area offers easy and safe walks, perfect for a picnic or to observe the landscape and nature.
Can you visit the Castelnou castle?
Yes, the Castelnou castle can be visited and is one of the main attractions of the village. The tour includes the walls, the towers and the inner courtyard, and offers spectacular views of the valley and Mount Canigou. Access is via a sloping path, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
Castelnou and responsible tourism
Visiting Castelnou is not just a walk: it’s a way to support a village that keeps its traditions and heritage alive.
When you choose to eat in its small restaurants, buy from the artisans or stay in a chambre d’hôtes, you are directly helping to ensure that Castelnou remains that special place we all love.
💚 Tips for tourism that leaves a positive impact:
- Respect the pace of the village and its inhabitants.
- Take your waste with you and leave the surroundings as you found them.
- Choose local products: cheese, honey, ceramics… besides taking home a unique souvenir, you contribute to the local economy.
Because in the end, the best part of these trips is coming back knowing that, even just a little, you helped places like Castelnou stay authentic.
