"Between Port-Vendres and Banyuls, lovely vine-coloured hills descend to rocky bays of blue sea and beaches. The steep vineyards rise and fall until you reach Banyuls itself where you will find a palm and eucalyptus trees lining the waterfront and offering shade to the numerous cafe-bars. Behind there's the older part of narrow lanes intertwined with shady newer streets.

The town was the centre for the Templars and their wine cellars survive and can be visited. Banyuls (pronounce the 's') has long been noted for its intriguing wines, especially a sweet port like red and the strong Vieux Banyuls.