Explore Pays Cathare

 

‘Colours of Pays Cathare’ is ideally situated to explore this diverse area. Close to the stunning Cité of Carcassonne, with easy access to the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean, even Spain. There are so many places to visit within a one hour drive.


Special interests - Join a themed week* or plan your own... I can help with your itinerary, arrange tutors and workshops for Local History, Art, Photography, Writing and more... Ask for details.

History...


2,000 years of history and two UNESCO World Heritage sites at Carcassonne; the stunning Medieval Cité and Canal du Midi. Follow the Cathare Trail to mountain top chateaux, medieval villages and abbeys, or visit mysterious Rennes le Chateau, which inspired the books ‘Holy Blood Holy Grail’ and ‘The Da Vinci Code’.

Culture...


A friendly, unspoilt corner of Southern France, with carnivals, festivals - Spanish Ferias too - throughout the year. Try local specialities: sparkling white wine, cassoulet, truffles, summer fruits and nuts. Hear Occitan music, play petanque, visit bustling marketplaces, socialising or watch the world go by over coffee.

Art...


Find visual inspiration all around you in nature, medieval villages, chateaux and abbeys. Visit local galleries, follow sculpture and art trails through the hills.  Meet the artists in their studios or at the village exhibitions and fetes. Bring paints and your camera, come alone or as a group.

Nature...


Get close to nature with opportunities to walk, cycle, go horseriding, play golf or take a cruise on the tree-lined Canal. Swim in the rivers or thermal baths. Head to the mountains for kayaking, white water rafting, adventure courses and snow sports.  Be amazed by the beauty of your surroundings.