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France, 5 Days · Tailor-made by car
Route of the Cathars
An exciting journey into the past through Toulouse, Carcassonne, Albi and the magnificent Cathar Castles
The sun-kissed southwest of France, cradle of the Cathar religion, beholds a fascinating past. The "Route of the Cathars" takes the traveller on a thrilling adventure into the past, visiting the places frequented by followers of Catharism, a religion created by group of Christians whose behaviour was far from the opulence of the Church of that time, and who were given shelter by knights in their beautiful châteaux, the last bastions against the violent persecution of Pope Innocent III. The Route visits dreamlike castles perched on sheer cliffs, many of them open to the public, inviting you to let your imagination run free while touring this stunning region blessed by nature. Take your time to discover unique places such as the Abbey of Fontfroide and fascinating castles such as Aguilar, Peyrepertuse, Quéribus, Puilaurens, and the four Cathar Castles of Lastours. Most of the fortifications are in ruins today, but it's easy to imagine them in their role as zealous protectors of the peace. The Route of the Cathars is designed to be experienced at the wheel, enjoying every step of the way. Straddling both sides of the road are vineyards and sunflower fields; multicoloured landscapes dotted with cypress, pine and boxwood trees; and quaint villages and medieval towns that have been protected by solemn strongholds for many centuries. The route runs through historic towns such as the fortified Carcassonne (World Heritage Site by UNESCO), the vibrant and cultural Toulouse, and the artistic and stylish Albi (also World Heritage Site by UNESCO). Take advantage of this trip on French soil to sail along the historic Canal du Midi (World Heritage Site by UNESCO); enjoy a wine-tasting session in the ancient cellars of Gaillac; and discover the beauty of enchanted villages like Cordes-sur-Ciel, Castelnaudary, Castres and Lautrec. Travel to the southwest of France and marvel at its incredible history, its beautiful walled towns, exquisite cuisine and breathtaking scenery. Please note: The local Tourist Offices offer travellers the "Passeport du Pays des Sites Chatare", which gives 20 discounted admission fees, including to the main Cathar castles.
Departure date
Departures from April 2024 till April 2025
From
Dublin, Shannon, Cork...
Travel details
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Travel details
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Day 1 City of origin - Toulouse
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Day 2 Toulouse - Seuil de Naurouze - Castelnaudary - Carcassonne
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Day 3 Carcassonne - Fontfroide Abbey - Aguilar Castle - Peyrepertuse Castle - Quéribus Castle - Puilaurens Castle - Carcassonne
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Day 4 Carcassonne - Cathar Castles of Lastours - Castres - Lautrec - Albi - Cordes-sur-Ciel - Toulouse
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Day 5 Toulouse - City of origin
Your trip includes
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Return flight.
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Stay in selected hotel in Toulouse.
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Selected meal plan in Toulouse.
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Stay in selected hotel in Carcassonne.
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Selected meal plan in Carcassonne.
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Rent-a-car.
Your trip doesn't include
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Accommodation taxes in France direct payment in facility.
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Possible toll charges.
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Insolvency protection.
Destinations Visited
Important remarks
- Triple rooms in Europe are generally rooms with twin beds or a double, in which a folding bed is installed to accommodate the third person. Due to the inconvenience this causes, we advise against using this option as far the possible.
- The proposed excursions and tours for each day are purely suggestions, as you can tailor the trip to suit your times, tastes and needs.
- A credit card is considered a guarantee, so sometimes you will need one for check-in at hotels.
- Hotels usually have cots available. Otherwise, babies will have to share a bed with an adult.
- To pick up your rental car, you'll need a credit (not debit) card in the name of the person who made the booking, who must also be the named driver of the vehicle.