Around the Ginestas lodges
Between the Mediterranean and the Cathar Countries
Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a popular tourist destination due to its old walled town, well-preserved ramparts and medieval castle. You can explore the medieval city, visit the count’s castle, stroll through the cobbled streets and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the ramparts.
Carcassonne also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops, giving visitors an authentic experience of local culture. Don’t forget to discover the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which crosses the city.
Canal du midi
cycling units. Many companies offer bike rentals so you can explore the beauty of the surrounding area at your own pace.
Picturesque towns and villages: The Canal du Midi passes through charming villages and towns, offering visitors the opportunity to experience local life, gastronomy and regional architecture. Carcassonne, Narbonne and Béziers are some of the towns crossed by the canal.
Many companies offer bike rentals so you can explore the beauty of the surrounding area at your own pace.
The Canal du Midi passes through charming villages and towns, offering visitors the opportunity to experience local life, gastronomy and regional architecture. Carcassonne, Narbonne and Béziers are some of the towns crossed by the canal.
Plages de Méditerranée
Hérault beaches: The Hérault department, in the Occitanie region, also offers beautiful Mediterranean beaches. La Grande-Motte, Palavas-les-Flots and Cap d’Agde are some of the popular seaside resorts. The beaches are often well maintained and offer various activities for families and water sports enthusiasts.
Vermilion Coast: This part of the Mediterranean coast is located near the Spanish border. Collioure, with its colorful houses by the sea, is a popular destination. The beaches are often smaller and offer a picturesque charm.
Château Cathare
Cathar Castles: The region is famous for its Cathar castles, medieval fortresses built in the 13th century during the crusade against the Cathars. Some of the most iconic castles include Château de Montségur, Château de Quéribus, Château de Puilaurens and Château de Peyrepertuse. These sites offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Towns and villages: As well as castles, many medieval villages and towns in Cathar Country are worth exploring. Carcassonne, with its famous walled city, is one of the most popular destinations. Limoux, Mirepoix, and Castelnaudary are other charming places that retain a medieval atmosphere.
Abbaye de Fontfroide
Fontfroide Abbey is a well-preserved example of Cistercian architecture and offers visitors a unique experience, combining history, art and nature. If you have the opportunity to visit the region, it is worth discovering this site steeped in history and
Vignobles
Aude is crossed by several wine routes, offering an excellent opportunity to discover the diversity of the region’s vineyards. For example, the Corbières Wine Route will take you through the vineyard-covered hills of Corbières, while the Minervois Wine Route will take you through the vineyards of Minervois.
