|
From the Mediterranean to the Pyrenees, the Aude
Cathar Country possesses a large variety of
landscapes and prestigious historical sites in
an area of natural outstanding beauty. In
spectacular locations, innumerable hilltop
Cathar Castles pepper the area, with a
fascinating history dating back as far as the
11th century. They are a continuing reminder of
the bitter feuding between the French nobility
(representing the Catholic Church) and the
Cathar religion. Although the castles are
largely ruins today, they have fabulous settings
and provide an ideal day out exploring and a bit
of exercise - as many of the castles have very
steep climbs to reach them! Visit the amazing
Arques Chateau and Donjon at the entrance to the
village.
Alet-les-Bains
Both road and rail follow the magnificent River
Aude, skirting the miniscule thermal resort of
Alet-les-Bains - a 12th century town with its
half-timbered houses and the ruined cathedral. A
lovely place to visit and especially for a
cooling swim in the outdoor, natural spa-water
pool. Nearby Rennes-les-Bains also has an
outdoor swimming pool with naturally-heated
spa-water.
Rennes-le-Chateau
The views alone are spectacular but one reason
for the excursion is to visit the mysterious
parish church run by Abbe Sauniere from 1885
until 1910. He was suspended because of his
inability to explain how he financed his
comfortable lifestyle and the lavish restoration
work on the church. The church is full of veiled
symbols and secret codes, which, some say,
indicate that he had discovered the lost
treasure of Solomon, brought here by the
Visigoths in the fifth century. The inspiration
for the ‘Da Vinci Code’ and treasure-seekers.
Mediæval City of Carcassonne
A visit to this area would not be complete
without a day-out to this fabulous UNESCO World
Heritage Site. |
