Fisherman's house above the Old Port in Port-Vendres

Interesting, comfortable multi-level house with good harbor and surroundings view. Central location for hikes, shopping, swimming, dining, transportation. Car isn't necessary here. Cool loft for kids or old kids has view out skylight. Facilities all work well. Owners have been ill, so we understood why it wasn't sterile like a dentist's office but adequately clean. Fun place, nice neighbors--

We wanted a base from which to spend 10 days srokelling and mountain walking - Gareth and Irene's house was perfect! Everything you need is within walking distance - restaurants (we recommend Le chant du poulpe', amongst the best restaurants I've been to) bars, and grocery store. There's a small quiet creek 10 minutes walk away to cool down in the sea. A little further (20min drive) the marine nature reserve awaits you - you don't need to go to an aquarium, you just stick your head underwater. The only thing missing is the David Attenborough voice over and your in a BBC nature documentary. The house itself is basic, but it has everything that you would need. Everything is clean and in good condition, the living room is large as is the main bedroom. As it's built into the mountain side it remains cool even in the afternoons which is great. The shady patio is a real bonus, and the views of the port at sunset are great. There are loads of info if you're into hiking, with all the detailed ordinance survey type maps you will need so that you don't get lost! We really recommend a stay at Port Vendres - perhaps not as picturesque as Colioures ar Banyules, but so much quieter, and this is still a working port, not just a tourist trap. Diolch i chi, Geraint ac Irene, fe ddaru ni fwynhau!

Port -Vendres is an attractive working port and, as such, has plenty to see and do without being too touristy. The house is set up above the harbour but it is a quick walk down the steps to reach bars, restaurants, shops and fresh fish outlets. The view from the small balcony is charming and allows you to enjoy the sun in the morning, the lights of the harbour and church at night, and spectacular lightning displays when there is a storm! The small front garden means lunch outside in the sun as it creeps up over the surrounding buildings. The neighbours couldn't be kinder or more helpful and the local semi-feral cats appreciate feeding and distant companionship. If you enjoy catering for yourself the kitchen is small but adequate though there could be a larger pasta saucepan and a tin opener, but maybe we couldn't find it. The owners are very helpful and provide literature to help you decide your excursions and days out. It is very easy to travel around as there is a regular 1€ bus that takes you up to Perpignan and the villages on the way. It is an easy walk to Coullioure, a must, and a slightly longer walk or bus to the beach of Paulilles, another must visit. With a car there are plenty of places to visit; up and down the coast and inland. Spain is within easy reach with Girona, Figueres and the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes high above the Costa Brava. We were very lucky with the weather in October, a very pleasant 22-25 degrees, no rain, though locals were desperate for it so when a spectacular lightning storm with torrential rain arrived the night before we departed it was a welcomed event for them. There is so much to recommend this area and this accommodation, particularly in the quieter later part of the year. Check that attractions are open as the season is pretty much over but, be assured, if you are looking for something comfortable, homely and practical then you will be happy in this place. The upstairs mezzanine bedroom ceiling is very low and, when we were there, the lack of working air conditioning given the temperatures meant that it was hot to sleep. Beds were comfortable and everything was very clean and well presented. The arrangements and directions were clear and the deposit returned very promptly. Wifi would have been wonderful but the local restaurants and bars are very happy to provide you with access to theirs. If we went back to this area we woul definitely stay there again. Thank you for sharing it with us.

This was a delightful property and just how we had imagined it to be! Perfect location with a private little area for enjoying our breakfast after collecting the croissants from the near by boulangerie. Would definitely recommend it as it was perfect in every way!