Vernet-les-Bains

Understand

300px|thumbnail|Église Saint-Saturnin and surrounding buildings in Vernet

Vernet's links with Rudyard Kipling and the Entente Cordiale.

Get in

thumb|Le Petit Train Jaune

Vernet shares a station with Villefranche, easily reached from Perpignan, but, whereas Villefranche is near the station, Vernet is 5 km – a fair trek – uphill on a road so you may need a bus or taxi.

The station is also the eastern terminus of the scenic metre-gauge Ligne de Cerdagne from Latour-de-Carol, with connections from Barcelona (broad gauge) and Toulouse.

Get around

Roads are often steep, so don't assume a 3-km walk to be quick and easy.

Do

Go to the casino if you must, but in any case don't miss the geological museum where the owner gives a most informative tour in several languages.

There is a small zoo in Casteil that appeals to children. Walks range from the ascent of the to easy strolls suitable for children. Unfortunately the TIC only sells the walks guide in summer, which starts by decree on June 1 – but hotels are likely to have copies that you can see at other times.

Eat

Bistrot le Cortal. It's very small so book beforehand. Food and views to die for.

Connect

As of Jan 2024, Vernet-les-Bains and its approach highways have 4G from Bouygues, Orange and SPR, and 5G from Free.

Go next

If you've not arrived from Perpignan, it's certainly worth a visit.