Moulin de la Cortina

The Collioure Mill, sentinel of the Cortina olive groves

On the hill, among the terraced olive trees, stands the Cortina Mill, one of the oldest windmills in the region. Its stone outline watches over Collioure and rewards the climb with a panorama over the bay. The Collioure audio-guided tour leads to this witness of the Catalan Middle Ages, where you grasp the town's ancient bond with the land, grain and later olive oil.

A medieval mill born in 1337

This stone tower mill dates back to the fourteenth century: in 1337 Raymond de Toulouse, procurator of the king of Majorca, granted the right to grind grain here. For centuries its sails turned to the rhythm of local harvests, before the agricultural mechanisation of the nineteenth century made it obsolete and let it fall into ruin. Since restored, it has regained an activity as an oil mill, faithful to the olive-growing tradition of the Catalan country.

What to see

People come to the mill for its setting as much as for the building: the terraced olive trees, the golden stone and the view over Collioure and the sea. On visiting days, passionate volunteers explain how the mill works and its role in local farming history, making it a lively, instructive stop. It is one of the finest goals for a walk on the heights of the town.

Practical information

The Collioure Mill stands on the heights above the town and is reached on foot by an uphill path through the terraces, often passing through the Pams garden; sturdy shoes are recommended. The visit, free of charge, is generally guided by volunteers on certain days of the week, mainly from April to September, in the morning. As these days and times vary with the season, it is best to check them before climbing up.

How old is the Collioure Mill?

This tower mill dates back to the fourteenth century: as early as 1337 the right to grind grain here was granted, making it one of the oldest windmills in the Catalan country.

Can the mill be visited?

Yes, volunteers generally offer a free visit on certain days, mainly from April to September and in the morning; as days and times vary with the season, remember to check them before climbing up.