The weather
This country, ‘the Pays Cathare’ has everything to offer to the modern traveller: quietness, unspoiled nature, historic sites, caressing sun heath, wandering roads, sporting possibilities, all framed by this amazingly curved landscape with view on the Pyrenean giants who tirelessly guard this harmonic unity.
Centrally in the rich supply are obviously the Cathars. They have stigmatized so intensely the country, be it very peacefully, that their traces are still present today: the remains of the fortresses of Montségur, Puivert, Roquefixade are close, the famous village of Montaillou as well. You can go to Rennes-le-Château and get to know more about abé Bérenger Saunier and the mystery around. Take your time to try and discover the many bits of hidden history in this secret part of France. Don’t forget to taste the fruits of the lovely vineyards surrounding and if you don’t limit to what you already may know, i.e. Crémant de Limoux, Minervois, …. you will make some great discoveries.
Should you wish to sunbathe on a beach and enjoy the pleasantness of the nearby sea, you drive about an hour to Narbonne-Plage, whereas you will reach the highlands in still less time to perform winter skiing or summer walks in the mountains.
Of course, Carcassonne and its ‘cité’, within easy reach is a must, the same guilds for the romantic Canal du Midi inviting you to make extensive biking excursions or nice hiking strolls.
Foix (capital of Ariège) and its famous castle are worth while visiting and in lots of places surrounding your stay you can frequent very nice markets, both in the morning and in the night.
Each Friday night, at Léran, charming port at the Lac de Montbel, you can attend to a village happening where you can try and taste local delicacies, cooked for you, country wines. A similar event takes place every Saturday night in July and August at Lagarde reachable by foot.
Further in the Pyrenean Highlands you can practice more demanding sports, such as wall climbing, delta flying, canyon exploration, mountain walks, speleology …..
