Carcassonne casts a spell on all who venture here. Visit the city and you’ll be transported to medieval lands, where castle walls proudly protected people from the threats that lay beyond.
Even the briefest of trips to Carcassonne is likely to linger long in your memory.
A royal fantasy
Make straight for La Cité,Carcassonne’s mesmerising fortified town which is undoubtedly the highlight of the city. Story book magic is in abundance here.
Built upon a hilltop more than two millennia ago, the fortress boasts 52 towers which rise – high and glorious – into the blue sky. Perfectly preserved, the fortress boasts enough treasures to spend a whole day exploring.
Enter via Porte Narbonnaise and head into the heart of the stronghold. Wander along the narrow cobbled passageways, lined with shops, and make your way up the ramparts. From here, you’re in the perfect place to bask in outstanding views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Head back down to ground level and seek out the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire tucked away in the southern corner of the citadel. Dating back to the 11th century, this stunning cathedral boasts a blend of Roman and Gothic architectural detailing.
Catch a glimpse of the menacing gargoyles studded around the exterior before wandering into the vast nave to admire the beautiful stained glass windows decorating the walls.
Rural ruins
Go out of Carcassonne and into the countryside to find the famed Cathar Castles among thickly-forested hills and standing solitary upon isolated rocky ridges. Each unique, they all add to this region’s magical character.
From the airport, drive north-east through the dramatic countryside to the village of Lastours, nestled in the Orbeil Valley. Park up and follow the marked route up the hillside and to the mountain ridge. Here you’ll find the Castles of Lastours, four medieval wonders that offer a glimpse into the past of this historically rich region.
Head south along the D118 to Lapradelle-Puilaurens where you’ll find parking spots at the base of the hillside.
Ascend the rocky peak through thick pine forest to reach Puilaurens Castle, looming more than 2,200 feet above the Boulzane valley. Although a castle is thought to have been on the site since the 10th century, the remains you’ll see are from the 13th.
More dramatic ruins can be found in Cucugnan. Positioned high above the valley, 14th century Queribus Castle looks as if it has been carved straight into the rock face. You can see its polygonal tower from miles away, marking its strategic position. Head up to the tower and drink in the spectacular views across the surrounding mountains.
Nothing Toulouse
Drive up the A61 in the direction of Toulouse, known as La Ville Rose. Famed for its pretty pink-tinged buildings, this romantic city is utterly enchanting. Meander through the atmospheric streets of the cobbled old quarter, opening out on to squares buzzing with locals.
You’ll find a goldmine of places to eat. Toulouse has a reputation for outstanding southern French cuisine and is the perfect place to sample its gastronomical delights.
Tuck into flavoursome cassoulet, a slow-cooked meat and white bean stew, at Le Colombier, that features the city’s signature sausage, saucisse de Toulouse.
Roam the stalls of vibrant Marché Victor Hugo, the city’s covered market, before heading up to one of the restaurants on the first floor to feast on succulent duck confit and perfect fries.
All the magic and beauty of this wondrous city and surrounding region can be explored fully with car hire from Carcassonne Airport.