Collioure Windmill

Known locally as "Le Moulin de la Cortina" due to its location in the Cortines area, this remarkable Collioure landmark dates back to the 14th century, making it not only the oldest windmill in Roussillon, but also a rare example in a region predominantly known for its water mills.

Collioure windmill's origins are deeply intertwined with the medieval history of the region. On February 11, 1337, the Knight Raymond de Toulouse, acting on behalf of the King of Majorca, granted Jacques Ermengald of Collioure the right to operate this windmill. Originally built to grind grain, it played a vital role in the local agriculture, helping process the harvests from the surrounding lands.

Over the centuries, however, the windmill's blades ceased to turn, and by the 19th century, it had fallen into a state of ruin.

But, in the late 1990s, Collioure’s Mayor recognized the cultural and historical significance of this structure and initiated a comprehensive restoration project for the windmill.

So, in June 2001, the restoration was carried out using traditional methods, with wooden machinery meticulously crafted by local carpenters led by Bernard Garibald.

Today, the windmill has been repurposed to serve as an olive oil mill and use olives from local olive groves surrounding the windmill including olive varieties like Picual, Hojiblanca, Verdale, and Poumal, the mill now produces high-quality Collioure olive oil. This oil is celebrated not only for its exceptional flavour but also for its health benefits and is produced without any chemical additives or pesticides.

Indeed, visitors to the windmill can explore this historic site and witness the oil production process firsthand. The mill is open from April to September, every Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., offering a unique opportunity to purchase this "liquid gold" directly from the source.

How to get to Collioure Windmill

Reaching the windmill is a scenic journey in itself.

One can either take a walk through olive and almond groves from Fort St-Elme along the Cami del Port de Sant Telm, enjoying breathtaking Mediterranean views along the way, which is about 1km.

 Or there is a shorter (but much steeper) 200 metre path leading up from the Musée d'Art Moderne, which offering equally stunning vistas of boats dotting the brilliant blue sea in Collioure.