The yellow train of Cerdanya
The Catalan emblem of the Eastern Pyrenees
The yellow train of Cerdanya – the “Canari” – which connects Villefranche de Conflent to Latour de Carol, on 63 km and 1 200 m of difference in altitude. In the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees Regional Natural Park, travel through its breathtaking landscapes for a unique experience. A superb trip in open carriages, to admire the magnificent Catalan lands. Our family campsite in the Eastern Pyrenees, takes you to discover the destinations served by the yellow train of the Pyrenees.
From Villefranche de Confluent to Font Romeu
The yellow train serves no less than 22 stations in the direction of Spain. Villefranche de Confluent is the main departure station and an obligatory stop on your visits to the Pyrenees Orientales. We advise you to come in advance to be able to visit beforehand the city classified as one of the most beautiful in France. This Catalan city, formerly a strategic place of defense of Roussillon, is surrounded by ramparts designed by Vauban. Your arrival in Villefranche marks the start of the Confluent region in the Têt valley whose landscapes are characterized by several rivers and massifs such as the peak of Canigou which dominates from all its height. By the way, if you come by car from Perpignan, stop first at the organs of the Ile sur Têt on your way before arriving at the station. Its white sand and clay chimneys shape the landscape in an amazing way. Once your head is full of discoveries, board the yellow train of the Pyrenees towards Font Romeu. You will pass through breathtaking landscapes and places, especially when you pass on the bridge that is 65 m above the ground. Like Villefranche, Vauban also designed impressive fortifications at Mont Louis, one station before your next stop.
From Font Romeu to Latour de Carol
You can choose to continue your journey by yellow train or make a stop in Font Romeu halfway. At an altitude of 1800 m, this small village, well known to Olympic athletes, is above all a ski resort. But it also combines history and modernity like the solar oven of Odeillo, the second largest solar oven in the world, and its large hotel. Direction Spain and Andorra, the train continues its crossing of the Cerdanya to take you through the various Catalan plateaus. Primarily rural, this part of the journey is a source of escape. There are many mountain hikes in the surrounding villages. This rise in altitude can be accompanied by water activities on the various lakes and rivers. Once you arrive in Latour de Carol – Enveitg, you will be close to the Spanish border and the Catalan culture.
The route of the Canary in the colors of Occitania, is very good in winter as in summer because the line is open all year. It takes about 3 hours from Villefranche to Latour de Carol. You can find out more on the yellow train website.
How to get to Villefranche from the campsite in the Pyrénées Orientales?
From our campsite in the Eastern Pyrenees, you can go with your family or friends for a day in the Catalan natural park. Experience this unique visit from Torreilles by car or by public transport. Please inquire in advance about the booking conditions for the purchase of train tickets. Once these formalities have been completed, there are several ways to reach the Villefranche de Confluent train station. By car, it will take you 1 hour on the main road. Otherwise, you will find train lines in Perpignan that will take you directly to your destination. From Torreilles to Perpignan, you will find regular bus lines.