Located at the foot of Mont Canigou and in the heart of the Regional Nature Reserve of the Catalan Pyrenees, Vernet-les-Bains is both a spa town and a ‘Station Verte’ ( French award for a village or town which offers a range of services in an unspoilt environment). Vernet is a place of relaxation and tradition : with its old village, spa quarter and numerous hiking trails.
Situated in the heart of Conflent, nature dominates in Vernet-les-Bains, a spa town and ‘Station Verte’. Rich in history, the old village that was built in the middle ages has preserved its medieval castle, church and flowered streets which will lead you to the village’s more modern part. Belle Epoque buildings can be seen along the Cady river banks such as the casino and Hotel de Portugal. Once called ‘Paradise of the Pyrenees’, Vernet les Bains was visited by many British aristocrats and important figures of British society, such as the author of the Jungle Book, Rudyard Kipling who was inspired by the village when writing.
WHY SNOW FALLS AT VERNET
A legend of St Saturnia by Rudyard Kipling (16th of March 1911)
With respect to nature, apart from being ideally situated at the foot of Mt. Canigou, Vernet-les-Bains is en route for those accessing the summit of Canigou. Vernet-les-Bains is also home to an arboretum village that counts 2 000 trees and 320 remarkable species. In this region, which has been shaped by history, relaxation, sporting activities, leisure and the open air, these various elements harmoniously unite to meet every visitors’ needs.
The village’s beauty, tranquility, its very welcoming side and diverse entertainment have for more than a century attracted families in search of a convivial atmosphere and the open air – hikers, people attracted by outdoor sports, those coming for hydrotherapeutic cures and lovers of rich natural, architectural and cultural heritages. Vernet-les-Bains is also the starting point of the famous Canigou Championship, which takes place on the first Sunday in August and which brings runners and hikers together (on Saturday) in a bid to conquer the summit.
Independent and family-run, the thermal baths are the last ones in the Pyrénées Orientales of such a kind. Vernet-les-Bains’ thermal baths have preserved their authentic and convivial atmosphere over generations. Its staff wish to sustain this pleasant atmosphere and those who visit are treated with great care.
From arrival onwards, each visitor benefits from personalized attention in order to facilitate their care and promote their well-being. Different areas of the baths have been named after flowers so that everyone can find their way around easily.
Sulfur waters also have traces of sodium, they derive from the heart of the Canigou and have proven properties:
Based on Vernet-les-Bains’ thermal waters, the organic cosmetic range Vitherma is known for its soothing and healing qualities. From eau de jeunesse to hydrating creams, check out all the products on the official Vitherma website or at the selling points located in the Well-being Centre, Fouard pharmacy in Vernet-les-Bains or at the Biocoop in Prades.
