Heritage Discovery: The Villages
Want to explore the region's hidden treasures? Discover villages full of character, combining medieval history, spectacular landscapes, vibrant traditions, and local delicacies. Here, Cathy and Eric share their tried-and-tested favorites for unforgettable getaways less than an hour from the Château.
Mirepoix
Mirepoix, a medieval village 50 minutes from Carcassonne, captivates visitors with its 12th-century half-timbered houses made of wood and plaster. Don't miss its Monday morning market under the covered market. July is home to the traditional four-day Historical Festival, and August hosts the Puppet Arts Festival.
Suggestion from Cathy and Eric: Next to the 206-meter-long seven-arch bridge is a Holm Oak tree that is over 800 years old!
Minerva
Minerve, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, is an hour from Carcassonne. This important site of the Cathar Crusade offers charming streets, cafés, and terraces overlooking the Cesse Gorges.
Cathy and Eric's suggestion: Discover the old rampart walk and the underground route to the postern gate and its stele in memory of the Cathars.
Gruissan, the salt marshes and its chalet beach
Just an hour from Château de Palaja, between Leucate and Fleury-d'Aude, the coastline stretches into islands and ponds to explore on foot, by mountain bike, or by boat. Lose yourself in the salt marshes from the wooden chalets on stilts. Visit the salt marshes and taste oysters at the Leucate oyster center. In late summer, the waters take on magnificent pink colors and are dotted with pink flamingos.
Plus: Scenes with Emmanuelle Béart from Jean Jacques Beineix's film, “37.2°C in the morning” were filmed on the beach of the wooden chalets in Gruissan.
Rennes the castle
Just 45 minutes from Palaja Castle, follow in the footsteps of Abbot Saunière and his mysterious Cathar treasure. Discover an unusual church, its esoteric garden, and breathtaking views of the Aude Valley.
A perfect place for the curious, history buffs, and puzzle enthusiasts, to experience as a couple, family, or friends.
Lagrasse
The road to Lagrasse is fabulous, with its views of the Corbières. Less than 40 minutes from our hotel, discover Lagrasse, one of the most beautiful villages in France, nestled in the heart of the Corbières.
Discover a superb Benedictine abbey. Still inhabited by monks, the monastery houses fabulous gardens and a religious bookstore. In the medieval village, wander through the old 14th-century market halls, enjoy the Saturday morning market, and pop into the small artisan shops (soaps, pottery, leather, stained glass, vinegar, etc.).
Suggestion from Cathy and Eric: In summer, come with family, your partner, or friends to sip a local fruit juice under the majestic chestnut tree in the courtyard.