Discover Llívia: the tiny Spanish town nestled in the heart of France

A unique enclave where history, culture and mountain views combine

If you’re curious about quirky places, Llivia is a tiny Spanish town in the province of Girona, Catalonia, with a fascinating twist… it's completely surrounded by French territory. This oddity dates back to the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659, which ended the Franco-Spanish war.

Sitting at around 1,200 metres altitude amid the mountains of the Pyrénées-Orientales, Llivia offers stunning views and a rich local culture. The territory is shaped like a thick “L” and covers a mere 13 square kilometres. With about 1,400 residents, the town boasts charming stone houses, wooden balconies, and a slow pace of life that’s often compared to ski towns.

Here are five great reasons to visit Llivia:

• Enjoy authentic Catalan culture: Llivia lives and breathes northern Catalan traditions, reflected in everything from its architecture to its lively festivals and local language.
• Embrace nature and outdoor activities: The surrounding mountains provide excellent opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the great outdoors all year round.
• Relax in cosy accommodation: Whether you prefer budget-friendly stays like Hotel Llivia or something a little more upscale such as the four-star Set Terres - La Vil·la de Llívia, there’s something for every traveller.
• Step into history: Don’t miss the Esteve Pharmacy, now a museum and one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies, alongside the classic Our Lady of the Angels church and the Bernat de So tower.
• Experience the novelty of an enclave: Llivia’s unique position means you travel through a two-mile stretch of France on the N-154 to reach the nearest Spanish town, Puigcerdà, making for an unexpected little adventure.

Mostly closed to the public and primarily used by the military, it sometimes opens for special heritage days, offering a unique glimpse into this fascinating French-Spanish frontier. The island is historically significant as the site where the Treaty of the Pyrenees was negotiated and signed in 1659, marking a pivotal moment in European history.