Port Vendres, France Cruise Port Guide

Spanish border in the south. Port-Vendres, only 10 miles from the Spanish border, is located on the coast that is known as the Cote Vermeille.

For cruise vessels, Port-Vendres provides the opportunity to visit some of the prettiest areas of France. It serves as a convenient starting point for trips to Perpignan, Roussillon's historic capital; Collioure, a picturesque harbor filled with brightly colored fishing boats; and the medieval town of Carcassonne.

The ship is scheduled to dock at Quai de la Republique. The town center is within walking distance.

The area is best known for its foie gras and preserved duck (confit de canard). Many little stores offer beautifully packaged tins that make ideal gifts. Most shops close between noon and 2 p.m.

The cuisine in the southwestern part of France is rich and strongly seasoned, making generous use of garlic and goose fat. The most famous regional dish is cassoulet, a succulent white-bean stew with confit d'oie (preserved goose), spicy saUSAge, pork and sometimes lamb. Harbor restaurants often serve lobster and bouillinade, a fish stew.

Port-Vendres serves primarily as a starting point for trips into the surrounding areas. The most interesting destinations such as Perpignan, Carcassonne and Collioure are covered on Tours PGF-1, Banyuls. Five miles from Port-Vendres is the small town of Banyuls. It is known for its seafront aquarium and the full-bodied Banyuls wine. The aquarium contains a comprehensive collection of the region's fish and submarine life. The wine can be sampled at the Cellier