France has plenty of hidden gems and unsung heroes and Carcassonne is one of them. Vacation in this striking city and you’ll feel like you’ve fallen straight into a picture book. And even when you’ve had your fill of fairy tale magic, the surrounding Languedoc region is ready to charm you with its crumbling Cathar castles and lush vineyards.
belle histoire
Arrive in Carcassonne and the first thing you’ll see is a jaw-dropping blend of towers and battlements looming over the city – this is La Cité, a 2,000-year-old walled town that’s still inhabited today.
Cross under the thick walls at Porte Narbonnaise and wander the maze of narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants. Make your way to Château Comtal, the central castle which dates back to the 12th century. Entry here grants you access to the ramparts – wander along them and peer through the battlements and enjoy views of the modern city to the west and the Pyrenees mountains to the south.
Back down on the ground, stroll along to the southern end of the old town to seeBasilique St-Nazaire. This beautiful church has a stunning Gothic façade and magnificent stained glass windows inside.
The new town
Once you’ve explored the old town, you can head into La Ville Basse, the ‘new town’, despite dating back to the 13th century. Visit Place Carnot in its heart and take a seat in one of the many restaurants, where you can try traditional food including the local specialty, cassoulet – a stew-like dish made with pork, sausage and beans.
Throughout the week, this part of the city transforms into a lively market, with stalls piled high with fresh regional produce. Pick up fresh strawberries, smoked meats, olives and cheese – perfect for a picnic.
Make sure you have your camera with you so you can capture the views from Pont Vieux, the medieval bridge connecting the citadel to the new town. It’s one of the best ways to see the fortress in all its glory.
Take a trip outside the city
Renting a car for your visit to Carcassonne is a great way to see more of the Languedoc region. The countryside is peppered with the Cathar castles, 11th and 12th century structures that played an important role in sheltering the religious group known as the Cathars during the Middle Ages.
Some of the best can be found at nearby Lastours. Park in the tiny village and make your way up toChâteaux de Lastours, the ruins of four strongholds set dramatically upon a hillside. From the top you can enjoy magnificent views of the lush hills.
Another key attraction lies north-west of Carcassonne – the Regional Natural Park of Haut-Languedoc. Its impressive landscapes include mountains, lakes and valleys and it’s also home to many protected species of wildlife and rare plants. The park overlooks the Mediterranean, so you can also enjoy some great views from some of its highest peaks.
Renting a car for your visit to Carcassonne makes it possible to explore all these sights and more during your stay in this beautiful and historic corner of France.
