Palau-Del-Vidre: Glassmaking tradition and Sant Martí

Palau-Del-Vidre can be explored through two themes: glassmaking, with its historic evidence and workshops, and Lake Sant Martí, with its circular walking route and seasonal activities. The town’s glassmaking tradition dates back to the 13th century. As you plan your trip, consider whether you would like to focus more on crafts and cultural heritage or on activities by the water. These perspectives lead to different offerings and provide a practical framework for your choices.

Glass history, art and crafts

Workshops in the historic center demonstrate glassworking techniques such as fusing, enameling, engraving, mosaic, murrine, pâte de verre, sandblasting, and glassblowing with a blowpipe and at a torch. Alongside its long history, these techniques give the subject of glass a practical, craft-based dimension.

The Church of Sainte Marie de l’Assomption contains two 15th-century Gothic altarpieces. It also houses a Renaissance altarpiece and the rare Vierge Ouvrante. These sacred works of art offer another way to explore the town’s cultural heritage, alongside its glassmaking tradition. The former fort is also part of the town’s history: it was once surrounded by moats and protected by a gate.

At Été Verrier, five to six glassmakers present their latest work each week in July and August. If you would like to include the program in your trip, check the event dates in advance. L’Effet Verre is also a showcase for local glass craftsmanship: handmade jewelry is created there from Murano glass, using colored glass rods shaped at a torch.

Tours of the town and its cultural heritage

Two tour formats offer different focuses. A guided tour takes you through the lanes and explores Palau-Del-Vidre’s cultural heritage. It introduces the history and traditions of glassmaking, as well as traces of the art of fire. The Baludik tour, “Palau-del-Vidre, le palais du Verre,” is a family-friendly treasure hunt through the town’s streets and to its glass workshops. The two tours therefore have different emphases: the guided tour focuses on history and glassmaking traditions, while Baludik centers on a treasure hunt in the streets and at the workshops.

Lake Sant Martí and activities

A two-kilometer path circles Lake Sant Martí. Its shores are landscaped with a variety of vegetation and designed for walkers and people taking part in sports. The path and landscaped shores offer a distinct focus alongside glass art. Fishing is possible at the lake in certain seasons; day permits are issued on site by the local association. If fishing is part of your travel plans, this seasonal restriction is important to keep in mind.

Cyclists will also find specific route connections. The Boucle des Albères leads to the lake at Palau-del-Vidre and then to the town’s glass workshops. Another cycling connection runs from the glassblowers’ village of Palau-Del-Vidre to the EV8 cycling route; it passes through fields toward Argelès or Le Boulou and beyond. The Boucle therefore leads to the lake and then the workshops, while the EV8 connection points to destinations beyond the town.

Palau Aventures offers a high ropes course, zip lines, and electric boat rides. These add more types of activities to the overview of glass history, the walking route, and cycling connections.

Discover more destinations: Claira, Matemale, Saint Cyprien, Lamanère, Bolquère, Finestret, Baillestavy, Maureillas-Las-Illas.

For the broader travel overview: Pyrénées-Orientales.