The protected natural environments of the Pyrénées-Orientales

The Pyrénées-Orientales department is distinguished by its remarkable ecological richness, marked by the diversity of its natural environments and the presence of emblematic species. To preserve this heritage, the department is home to 11 nature reserves, 2 regional natural parks, a Grand Site, a marine natural park, a vast territory integrated into the European Natura 2000 network, as well as several sites protected for their landscape value.

At The Originals City Hotel Mondial Perpignan , we encourage our guests to discover nature in a responsible and respectful way, contributing to the protection of biodiversity and natural spaces in the Pyrénées-Orientales.

Adopting the right behaviors

In order to protect species and natural spaces, we encourage our customers to adopt responsible practices:

• Stay on the marked trails
  
  

• Do not pick plants or flowers, nor collect stones or shells.
  
  

• Do not disturb or feed the animals
  
  

• Respect prohibited or restricted areas.
  
  

• Leave no waste in nature
  

• Opt for soft and quiet transport

Natural sites to discover

Catalan Pyrenees Regional Natural Park

This protected area, covering more than 138,000 hectares on the Spanish border, offers a great diversity of landscapes: mountain forests, high-altitude lakes, and verdant valleys follow one another. A true sanctuary for local flora and fauna, it is also a prime location for hikers and lovers of wide-open spaces.

Corbières-Fenouillèdes Regional Natural Park

Spanning two departments, this park encompasses the Corbières massif in the north and center, the Fenouillèdes region in the south, and the upper Aude valley in the west. It is characterized by rugged terrain, spectacular gorges, deep forests, and vineyards. The area also boasts numerous medieval castles and archaeological sites, testaments to a rich historical past.

Gulf of Lion Marine Natural Park

Created in 2011 and managed by the French Office for Biodiversity (OFB), this marine park protects over 100 kilometers of coastline, from Leucate to Cerbère. It preserves a rich marine ecosystem, a cultural heritage linked to the sea, and a diversity of maritime activities. At its southern tip lies the Cerbère-Banyuls Marine Nature Reserve, established in 1974, the first fully marine reserve in France, now managed by the Pyrénées-Orientales Department.

Canigó, Grand Site of France and Occitanie

An iconic symbol of the Pyrénées-Orientales, Mount Canigou has been designated a Grand Site de France since July 2012 and a Grand Site Occitanie since 2017. This exceptional mountain range, ideal for hiking, is visible from Languedoc, Ariège, and the province of Girona. It embodies both a major landscape landmark and a strong symbol of identity for the Pyrenean region.