We are driving from Spain into France and are considering a stop at Collioure. Is this worth a slight detour and if so what is the best spot for lunch?

Where are you coming from in Spain and going to in France that Collioure would be a "detour?" If you're just driving up the coast, Collioure is right there, and you should definitely stop.

La Balette is a great seafood restaurant with wonderful views over the bay (you'd probably need a reservation in high season). La Frégate, in town, has excellent seafood as well.

St Cirq,
We are driving from La Bisbal (Costa Brava) to Trausse, a very small village in Languedoc. The most direct route is inland once in France, hence the "detour." Thank you for the recommendations.

Collioure is worth a short visit. I agree with one of the posters that La Fregate is great for lunch. Another restaurant we enjoyed was, I believe, called "Neptune".

Collioure is a small town, easily walkable for its little shops. Nice seaside ambience; it is where Matisse painted early in his career.

Anthony

I don't know about restaurants but certainly know that Collioure is worth a short visit. Very picturesque - I purchased a lovely water colour at a very modest price and still take pleasure in looking at the view.

I spend a lot of time in Europe focusing in recent years on France and one week every summer is Collioure. Love it there. Great Catalan culture and art galleries. Summers are hot but with a constant stiff wind making it very comfortable. Nights are perfect.

For a restaurant recommendation I would trust St.Cirq's advice.

Larry J

There's also the Hotel-Restauarant, Les Templiers. The restaurant is quayside.
Checkout the unusual lighthouse that is part of the church.

If you are staying in Languedoc you
will be able to drive down the freeway
to visit Collioure very easily. I think
it is worth more that just a 'detour'!