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Castelnou
Pyrénées-Orientales
Castelnou, a medieval Catalan village at the foot of Mount Canigou
Nestled at the foot of the Aspres, with the "Canigó" as a backdrop, Castelnou reveals a rich medieval heritage that has remained intact. Its cobbled streets, its ramparts dotted with gates and towers, and its viscount’s castle perched on its rocky outcrop tell a thousand years of history.
We wander among the artisans’ workshops, admire the stone houses and linger to take in the panoramic views that stretch across this northern part of Catalonia.
The jewel of Catalonia
Medieval heritage, the skill of local craftspeople and the Catalan countryside make Castelnou a village worth exploring step by step. So, are you curious?
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Word of Mouth
Look up! Beneath the eaves, the painted ‘cairous’ reveal triangles, suns and chevrons drawn in lime to ward off bad luck. A mysterious tradition… perhaps originating from Mallorca.
Your experiences to live in Castelnou
©Aspres-Thuir Tourist Office – Thuir Photography Club
Explore the narrow streets of Castelnou
Let yourself be guided through the village’s medieval alleyways, amongst ramparts, fortified gates and stone houses. Along the way, you’ll come across bread ovens, the remains of the seats of the kings of Majorca and views of the castle
©Mr Cail
Indulge in the flavours of Catalonia
Fancy sampling some Catalan specialities? At the entrance to the village, Castelnou’s historic market welcomes you with its local producers and unique creations. A warm and welcoming stop-off where you can enjoy a treat whilst discovering something new.
Enjoy a lively village all year round
Castelnou comes alive throughout the seasons: the Agricultural Fair, the Firefly Night Walk, the Medieval Festival and the International Painting Competition. A wonderful opportunity to experience the village in all its vibrancy and traditions all year round.
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Oct. 1, 2026 to Oct. 31, 2026 from 11 a.m.
CHÂTEAU DE CASTELNOU
We are delighted to be able to welcome you again this year. The park, Botanical Trail and Château interiors will be accessible, as will the rooftop terrace for breathtaking panoramic views! ...
Next dates:
- From 10/01/2026 to 10/31/2026
Open every day
66300 CASTELNOU
From Oct. 24, 2026 to Oct. 25, 2026
LES ENIGMES DU CHÂTEAU
Autumn colors adorn the Aspres region. With them, the bustle of summer gives way to the murmur of autumn. This is when the castle reveals its secrets to the most adventurous visitors.
Next dates:
- From 10/24/2026 to 10/25/2026
Open every day - From 10/24/2026 to 10/25/2026
Open every day
66300 CASTELNOU
From Oct. 24, 2026 to Oct. 25, 2026 from 11 a.m.
CHÂTEAU DE CASTELNOU - LES ENIGMES DU CHÂTEAU
For a weekend, the Château de Castelnou invites you to uncover its secrets! Whether with your family or just among adults, come take on the challenges, solve the puzzles, and let yourself be swept away by the castle’s mysteries. ON THE PROGRAM See you on the 24th & 25th...
Next dates:
- From 10/24/2026 to 10/25/2026
Open every day
66300 CASTELNOU
The Nov. 1, 2026 from 10 a.m.
MARCHÉ HISTORIQUE DE CASTELNOU - FÊTE DES SORCIÈRES
The historic market in Castelnou brings the village to life throughout the seasons, showcasing local producers and artisans and fostering a sense of community. In the unique setting of this medieval village, every market and event is an invitation to...
Next dates:
- 11/01/2026
Open every day
From Dec. 26, 2026 to Dec. 30, 2026
LES QUATRE SAISONS AU CHÂTEAU DE CASTELNOU - HIVER
Four seasons at the Château - the winter program: - Lendemains de Noël au Château Sat. 26 & Sun. 27 December (11am-5pm) Show for young audiences - Music recital Fortune-teller - Storytelling tour - Wed. dec. 30 at 3pm ...
Next dates:
- From 12/26/2026 to 12/30/2026
66300 CASTELNOU
The Dec. 30, 2026 from 3 p.m.
VISITE CONTÉE DU CHÂTEAU
The Département has planned a whole program of events for young and old: Fête de la Nature, Nuit Romantique, Journées Médiévales, Nuits des Etoiles, Journées Européennes du Patrimoine and many more!...
Next dates:
- 12/30/2026
Open every day
66300 CASTELNOU
Wine tasting at a local winery
Fancy a taste of the Catalan terroir? Discover the wines of the Côtes du Roussillon through a friendly tasting session. Share in the winemakers’ expertise and passion, raise a glass with friends and savour the region’s wines.
Roc de Majorque Walk
Set off on a 2½-hour walk linking Castelnou to the Roc de Majorque. The route takes you through narrow streets, Catalan countryside and to viewpoints overlooking the Aspres. An ideal outing to get some exercise together whilst discovering local history!
Discover Castelnou’s craftspeople
Gloomy weather? It’s the perfect opportunity to take a little extra time to admire the village’s many creative talents. Painters, potters, woodturners, mosaic artists and jewellery designers invite you into their world and reveal their techniques, materials and sources of inspiration. All you need to do is step inside their workshops...
Map of Castelnou
Extend the visit to near Castelnou
Eus
(20 km)
Villefranche-de-Conflent
(28 km)
Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste
(30 km)
Prepare your stay at Castelnou
Office de Tourisme Aspres-Thuir
Accessibility
Castelnou
# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélos
# Parking : Stationnement payant ou partiellement payant en fonction de la situation et de la période
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : Aire de stationnement pour camping-cars à moins de 15 mn à pieds
