There's a kind of magic to exploring Europe by rail. I recently took a trip through southern France and northern Spain, exploring a few of our bases and the highlights that are included in some of our most popular tours.
My trip offered a tapestry of sun-soaked coastlines, historic cities and culinary delights. From the sparkling Mediterranean shores of Roses to the fairytale citadel of Carcassonne, the journey pieced together some of the region's greatest highlights, all of which are featured across several GRJ tours, thoughtfully curated by our Product Managers Rhianna and Katie, and enriched by our incredible Tour Managers.
Roses, Catalonia - Where the Pyrenees Meet the Sea
Tour: Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
Where We Stayed: Hotel Mediterraneo Park, Roses
About Roses: Sitting on the rugged Costa Brava, Roses is a perfect starting point for exploring northern Catalonia. The Hotel Mediterraneo Park provided a relaxing base with easy access to the golden sands and promenade of this traditional fishing port.
Tour Highlights:
- Núria Valley Rack Railway: We venture on the unique rack railway high into the tranquil valleys of the Pyrenees, arriving at Vall de Núria - a pocket of serenity ringed by mountains and perfect for lakeside walks or visiting the Sanctuary of St Gil.
- The Little Red Train: Crossing into France, board the century-old Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat, chugging past châteaux, vineyards and breathtaking viaducts in the Pyrenean foothills.
- Medieval Towns: Excursions on this tour include stops in pretty towns like Girona and Besalú, where medieval architecture and cobblestone streets are set against a scenic backdrop.
- Dalí Museum in Figueres: The tour includes an immersion into the surreal mind of Salvador Dalí at the 'largest surrealist building in the world' in the artist's hometown.
Cadaqués & the Catalan Coast - The Artistic Coastline
Tour: Roses, Cadaqués & the Catalan Coast
Where We Stayed: Hotel Canyelles Platja, Roses
About the Tour: Swapping bays but not the incredible views, the Hotel Canyelles Platja overlooks the inviting azure waters of Canyelles Petites beach. This hotel serves as base camp for excursions that blend natural beauty with Catalan culture. The service, food and wine in the hotel provided a perfect end to each day.
This tour part of our Classic range and the bay is a little quieter and more intimate. Wine plays a big part of this region, and on our tour, we visit La Vinyeta for a tasting. I also took a trip to Celler Peralada, a pioneering winery in the heart of Catalonia's Empordà region (well worth a visit on your free day).
Tour Highlights:
- Cap de Creus Peninsula & Cadaqués: Cruise the wild coastline to the whitewashed fishing village of Cadaqués - beloved for its winding alleys and as inspiration for Dalí.
- Lunch at a Vineyard: The region's cuisine shines with fresh seafood and festive local wines, which are sampled amidst rolling vineyards.
- Barcelona Day Trip: On a fascinating excursion, soak up Antoni Gaudí's flamboyant architecture, including the Sagrada Família, and roam the Catalan capital's vibrant markets.
Carcassonne - Medieval Majesty & Modern Luxury
Tour: First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
Where We Stayed: Hotel Du Roi & Spa by Sowell, Carcassonne
About the Hotel: What a view! The Hotel Du Roi & Spa is within sight of Carcassonne's mighty citadel and ramparts. This peaceful setting is only permeated by intermittent chirrups from the nearby riverside.
A short stroll in the morning across the Rue du Pont Vieux, just outside the hotel is an incredible way to start any day, while the incredible wine collection and excellent food round off enjoyable evenings.
Tour Highlights:
- Citadel Exploration: Guided tours lead us through Carcassonne's fortified city, with its double walls, fairytale towers and honey-coloured buildings.
- Wine Tasting & Castles: We indulged in a wine-pairing dinner at Château de Pennautier and explore the scenic villages and Cathar castles dotting the Languedoc region.
- Vibrant Markets: Visit the historic city of Narbonne to marvel at the locally grown produce on display in Les Halles, before enjoying the sights and sounds of Mirepoix on market day.
Les Eyzies, Dordogne - Prehistoric Wonders & Gourmet Delights
Tour: The Charming Dordogne
Where We Stayed: Hôtel des Roches, Les Eyzies
About the Hotel: Set in the heart of the Vézère Valley and perfectly located to explore the region, Hôtel des Roches is tranquil and green with a lovely outdoor pool - ideal for recharging after days filled with sightseeing and gastronomy. Like many of the hotels we use, this is family-run and the Bousquets take incredible care of our customers. #
Tour Highlights:
- Marqueyssac Gardens & Château des Milandes: Wander through manicured gardens and visited the castle once home to cabaret star Josephine Baker.
- Truffadou Steam Train: This nostalgic train ride hugs cliffs above the Dordogne valley, offering panoramic views and a sense of living history.
- Rocamadour & Sarlat-la-Canéda: Explore the clifftop pilgrimage site of Rocamadour and browse the lively markets of Sarlat - famous for truffles and walnuts.
- Prehistoric Caves: With free days in Les Eyzies, there's ample time to uncover the cradle of Cro-Magnon man, revealed through cave paintings dating from more than 30,000 years ago.
Avignon, Provence - The Heart of Roman France
Tour: Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
Where We Stayed: Novotel Avignon Centre
About the Hotel: From the comfort of Novotel Avignon Centre, the city's medieval ramparts and the historic Palais des Papes were just a stroll away.
Tour Highlights:
- Guided Walks: Join a guided walking tour of Avignon, we discover its grand squares and poignant history.
- Rhône River Cruise: One highlight is the lunch cruise to Arles. The landscapes that inspired Van Gogh rolled by as we enjoy local cuisine while gliding across the water.
- Ancient Wine Tasting: Spend a memorable afternoon at the Pont du Gard tasting wines as they were made during Roman times.
Discover Spain and France with the experts
Every stage of this journey was a reminder of how rail touring blends relaxation, cultural immersion and unique encounters.
Our single-centre tours in this region of Europe offer the opportunity to unpack once, unwind and immerse yourself in memorable locations. Having our expert Tour Managers to help navigate your way round a well-curated tour also gives the opportunity of a deeper appreciation of southern France or Spain's diversity and charm.
View our full range of Spain and France holidays here:
