Ceret-City of Cherries

Because of Ceret's close proximity to Spain its shares many cultural events with its neighbors just south of the Pyrenees. In particular there are festivals in Mid-May to celebrate the cherry season; the second week in July starts a month long fest of bull-fighting (there is an arena in town), dancing, music, even a running of the bulls! A Penultimate weekend in August welcomes the International Sardana Festival (a 3-day dance competition that is very colorful and traditional) and in late September there is a HUGE 3 day Latin and Mediterranean Festival which draws the biggest crowds for music,dancing and food.

The Modern Art Museum is a must see-even if you are not a fan of "modern art". The first floor exhibits have some wonderful original Picasso's as well as historical artifacts. The upstairs is tres modern-with "installations" of fabric and sound. The cafes and restaurants scattered around the town are inviting as well.

Quick Tips:

If you plan to attend any of the aforementioned festivals, you must book reservations for accomodations months in advance.

Best Way To Get Around:

The bridge became famous in later years as a refuge for escapees from Franco's fascist regime, with many famous artists passing through or spending time here.

Whatever its origins, it is a beautiful bridge that provides a breathtaking view of the river and valley below.

Performing dancers wear brightly colored costumes,performing specific and quite intricate steps to the engaging music. Steps are composed of long and short steps of varying difficulty. >When you see a group of "ordinary" people (those not attired in costumes) you will find a more "authentic" presentation of the Sardanas. If your feet start tapping and you feel like you just cant help joining in - that's fine...but there are a few basic rules of etiquette to keep in mind. 1) If the circle is composed of men and women, it cannot be entered by a "single". The person on your right is considered your partner and to break up 2 partners is quite rude. If you are joining alone, look for a circle of same sex partners and you will be quite welcome. 2) You need to be able to count to 33. Dance steps are fairly simple but follow in a pattern that requires counting to 33. But locals will be helpful. Look for a group that is laughing a lot and looking like they are having a good time! The International festival lasts for 3 days in August, with renditions and versions of the traditional dance displayed in streets, arenas, anywhere there is a little room. The music is supplied by a musical group called a cobla and consists of woodwind and drum instruments. Along with the dancing, there is a huge outdoor market, bullfights and evening concerts held during the 3 day event.