Les Libellules - Things to do in the Carcassonne Region

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Things to see and do

"In all directions there are beautiful views, views all the way to the Pyrenees.

• The Black mountain itself provides many forest walks. The region has a wealth of castles, which gave protection to the area throughout the ages.

• The village is in the Cabardes wine region but within 15 miles are found the; Minervois, Fitou, Corbieres and other wine growing areas; Rivesaltes, Limoux and Malepere being not much further.

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• Numerous Cathar castles can be visited in the area, to the east are the historical towns of Bezier and Narbonnes while to the west is Toulouse home of aircraft industries.

• Excellent facilities for walking and horse riding with several stables nearby.

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•  The Canal du Midi winds through the Minervois region between Carcassonne and the Mediterranean. Boats may be rented by the day or week for a leisurely cruise down this pleasant tree-shaded waterway.

• Within a few kilometres of the village are many delightful spots to while away a pleasant afternoon. Fill your basket with delicious treats from a charcuterie or patisserie, take a few bottles of the local wine, and picnic in a meadow filled with poppies. Spread your blanket beneath a shady tree, or lounge on the banks of the Canal du Midi and watch the boats glide by. 
  

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• If a visit to the sea is your desire, then an hours drive brings you to the endless miles of golden sandy beaches of the Mediterranean , while Spain and Andorra can be reached in one and half hours.  

• Caves are widespread in the region, with The Grotte de Limousis (Caves of stalactites) and the Giant Chasm of Cabrespine (one of the world's largest caverns) are only 15 minutes away.

• The book town of Montolieu (the Hay on Wye of France) is a 20 minute drive away.

• The amazing Palaeolithic cave paintings at Niaux             

• Drive up high into the Pyrénées to wonder at the amazing Paleolithic cave paintings at Niaux. Unlike the more famous Lascaux, in the caves of Niaux you will view the actual paintings, not replicas made for tourists.There is no concession for age or infirmity, so be prepared to walk, crouch, slip and slide. Wear hiking shoes and a warm jacket. It is an unforgettable experience. Check out the official website at www.ariege.com/niaux

• Cycling -  Feel the breeze in your face and the sun on your shoulders as you pedal the uncrowded country lanes through the vineyards, or the more strenuous challenge of the roads into the Montagne Noire. The area is ideal for cycling. If you don't bring your own bikes, there is a rental agency in Carcassonne more than happy to help you out. 

• Durfort the copper village.

• Chateaux are abundant throughout.

• The road of the Abbeys, the medieaval pilgrim trail passes through the area, to St Papoul, Villelonge, Fontfroid, Caune-Minervois

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