On a sunny autumn day, or even a warm afternoon in winter, pick up the makings of a picnic and stroll to the Jardin des Remparts in Perpignan. The gardens, within the remnants of the medieval city walls, are planted with sub-tropical trees and shrubs which

flourish in Perpignan’s mellow microclimate even when there is snow on the horizon on the high peaks of the Pyrenees. Green parakeets – not native, but here to stay – add a further exotic touch.