Hôtel de la Cité, Carcassonne, France
by Orient-Express
 




Excursions in the Cathar Country

In the 12th and 13th centuries, a new religion, Catharism, also known as the Albigensian Heresy, took root in the south of France. This different form of Christianity was regarded as a threat by Pope Innocent III and a holy war was declared against the various countries in Langue d’Oc by the Barons of France and the Catholic Church.

The immediate result of this Crusade was the annexing of a large part of the south of France to the Capetian-ruled Kingdom of France, as well as the near-total destruction of a highly original local civilisation. 

Four special guided tours will take you back in time to the Middle Ages in Languedoc.

Please note: when booking your tour online, please specify your preferred tour option, as well as your room reservation number.

 
Discovering the Lastours Castles

Perched on the same rocky outcrop, the impressive ruins of the 4 Castles (Tour Régine, Cabaret, Quertinheux and Surdespine) tower over the Orbiel Valley. 

Half-Day Tour
9am-12pm or 3pm-6pm
Price

2 adults
€225

3 adults
€250

4 adults
€275

Children under 16*
free of charge



Discovering the Castles of Peyrepertuse and Quéribus

Your guide will take you to the mountains, south of Carcassonne, to visit the fabulous Cathar castle of Quéribus. Stop for lunch at the picturesque little village of Cucugnan. After lunch, we set off to admire the Gorges of Galamus with their breathtaking views. From there, you will continue on towards Peyrepertuse, to visit the largest Cathar Castle of the area, also the most imposing example of medieval military architecture in Languedoc Roussillon.   

Full-Day Tour
9am-5pm
Price

2 adults
€550

3 adults
€600

4 adults
€650

Children under 16*
€30



Discover Rennes-le-Château and Mirepoix

Leave the hotel for Rennes-le-Château situated on the trail of the legend of Abbé Saunière and his mysterious Treasure Trove. Had he found the legendary treasure of the Templars? The source of Abbé Saunière's wealth has never been discovered as he took his secret with him to his grave. Stop for lunch at the charming medieval town of Mirepoix famous for its wonderful market square.    

Full-Day Tour
9am-5pm
Price

2 adults
€550

3 adults
€600

4 adults
€650

Children under 16*
€30


Visit of Lastour Castles, with Canal Cruise, Picnic, and Wine Tasting Tour

Do you want to experience Southern France to its full? Your excursion will include a visit to the Lastour Castles, perched on the same rocky outcrop, the impressive ruins of the 4 Castles (Tour Régine, Cabaret, Quertinheux and Surdespine) tower over the Orbiel Valley and a tour of a family-owned vineyard with the winegrower explaining the different winegrowing methods in Languedoc Roussillon, a visit to the wine cellar with a tasting of the wines from the vineyard.

Between the two visits you will enjoy a canal cruise on board the hotel’s cruiser, the Gabriella. Lunch served on board with a sampling of various typical local products – sausages and cold cuts,
salads, cheeses, fruits and vegetables of the season, cakes and sweets – accompanied by local wines.

Full-Day Tour & Cruise
9am-5pm
Price

2 adults
€675

3 adults
€725

4 adults
€800

Children under 16*
€30



* Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult participant.

Please note: the meeting point for the above tours is in the Hotel lobby.
Prices and programmes subject to change.
 
US Bookings:
800-237-1236
 
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A complimentary child room
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Hôtel de La Cité, Place Auguste-Pierre Pont, 11000 Carcassonne, France
Tel: +33 4 68 71 98 71 Fax: +33 4 68 71 50 15 Email: reservations@hoteldelacite.com