Heritage Discovery: The Cathar Castles
Follow the trail of Cathar history through fortresses suspended between heaven and earth. Between breathtaking landscapes and medieval tales, these iconic castles offer a unique immersion in the history of Occitania. Cathy and Eric share their favorites for life-size getaways, accessible to all from the Château de Palaja.
Peyrepertuse and Queribus
Less than 1.5 hours from Palaja Castle, heading towards the Pyrenees, set out to explore the great Cathar sites: the Royal Fortresses of Peyrepertuse and Quéribus. These majestic castles tell the story of the Albigensian Crusade and offer an experience combining wild nature and ancient heritage.
After a pleasant walk (about 1 hour, accessible with sturdy shoes and a bottle of water), the view is magnificent: 360° views, breathtaking landscapes, and a guaranteed wow factor, all the way to the Mediterranean or the peaks of the Pyrenees! An exceptional site in spectacular natural settings.
Perfect for an outdoor getaway, a breath of fresh air with the family, or a romantic outing to the summit.
The Castles of Lastours
Only 20 minutes from Palaja Castle, this time on the Montagne Noire side. Discover the Lastours castles, perched on a rocky spur in the heart of a verdant valley. These four listed medieval fortresses overlook the charming village of Cabaret and offer a spectacular panorama of the Orbiel Valley.
The round-trip walk takes about an hour, through narrow streets and steep paths. Bring sturdy shoes and a bottle of water to fully enjoy this immersive walk through history.
Cathy and Eric's suggestion: From the village, the belvedere offers a breathtaking view of the four castles without having to walk. A must-see, perfect for families or couples.