Carcassonne

Morning starts under the shelter of the Narbonne Gate. Midday is spent exploring the dry halls of the Château Comtal. In the afternoon, we find refuge in the Basilica and make a quick dash across Pont Vieux. The evening concludes in the cozy bistros of Place Carnot, safe from the rhythmic rain outside.

A crisp winter morning at the gate without the usual crowds. At midday, we warm up inside the castle while the cold wind howls outside. The Basilica is exceptionally peaceful in the afternoon. We cross the bridge in the early twilight and enjoy hot chocolate at Place Carnot in the evening.

Explore Carcassonne on two wheels. Start at the Canal du Midi port and cycle along the UNESCO World Heritage site under the shade of ancient plane trees. A detour takes you to Lac de la Cavayère for a break. In the afternoon, reach the majestic fortress before returning through the flat streets of the Bastide.

We start at the port despite the drizzle. The Canal du Midi path is muddy but mystical. At midday, we reach Lake Cavayère shrouded in mist. In the afternoon, we cycle up to the Cité where the alleys provide some cover. We finish the evening in the Bastide with a warm drink.

A frosty start at the port. The bare plane trees along the canal let the winter sun through. At midday by the lake, it is windy but the air is wonderfully clear. In the afternoon, we climb up to the Cité, enjoying the view without the heat. In the evening, we treat ourselves to a hearty Cassoulet in the Bastide.

By car, you will discover not only the Cité but also the hinterland. After exploring the fortress, drive to Saint-Hilaire Abbey, where the world's first sparkling wine was invented. Enjoy lunch in Limoux and visit a vineyard for a local wine tasting. To finish, a panoramic viewpoint offers the perfect look at Carcassonne's silhouette.

Comfortable start at the Cité parking lot with an umbrella. At midday, we visit Saint-Hilaire Abbey, which is dry and atmospheric inside. In the afternoon in Limoux, we enjoy a covered wine tasting. We end the day with a misty view from the panorama point over the lit-up fortress.

A frosty morning at the Cité parking lot with plenty of spaces. At midday, Saint-Hilaire Abbey is quiet and impressive in the winter chill. In Limoux, we warm up with a glass of Blanquette. We end the day at the panorama point exactly at sunset, when the Cité glows in golden light.