Wikipedia
Latour-de-France is a commune in the Pyrénées-Orientales department in southern France.
Latour de France is situated by the original frontier between France and Catalonia and is rich in history. Its military significance ended with the Treaty of the Pyrenees peace between Louis XIV of France and Philip IV of Spain that ended the Franco-Spanish War of 1648–59 but is still evinced in street names such as place de l’hôpital and place d’Armes.
This little village of approximately 1,000 inhabitants boasts its own Appellation Contrôlée associated with the forward-looking cave co-operative, a garage, grocery, bakers, tobacconist, and blacksmith. There are two tennis courts, a charming children's playground, and several locations used by petanque enthusiasts.
At its perimeter, there is a mix of ancient and modern while the old central village is a labyrinth of narrow streets. While the Mairie has assiduously maintained and developed its many hidden small squares, the village has managed to remain unspoilt and authentic.
Thirty years ago, in common with many villages, there were a fair number of derelict properties. These have virtually disappeared having been renovated for the most part by local families. There are few foreigners in Latour de France. The few who are there have always found a real welcome and look on it as a little piece of heaven.
There are many well-mapped walking and biking trails through the vineyards with points of interest such as derelict chapels, mines, etc. – all surrounded by scenic views of the mountains.