Carcassonne

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The Bastide St Louis The lower town at Carcassonne, across the river Aude from the better known UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE  ‘La Cite’ is a large fortified village or ‘bastide’. Built on the traditional grid pattern within a defensive wall, some of which remains, it was much affected by the wars of the 13th,14th and 15th centuries along with three catastrophic fires. Two of the latter occurred in the early and mid 17th century and the consequence of this destruction was the raising of a renaissance town in the place of the medieval.

Tiny shops line the narrow streets whilst numerous bars and restaurants offer a welcome respite and a chance to sample the local produce and wines, perhaps a dish of the famous Cassoulet with a glass of wine from the Malpére.

The bustling main square Place Carnot is dominated by a marble fountain with the imposing figure of Neptune. On Saturdays the market transforms the square into a colourful and bustling spot to peruse the many varied stalls selling delicious local produce.

The Canal du Midi is enjoyed by boating enthusiasts, cyclists and walkers as they enjoy its towpath under the immense plane trees that line its banks. Starting at Agde on the coast it stretches all the way to Toulouse. Cycle Hire is available from April-September.

The River Aude is five minutes walk away and is a popular spot with large flat rocks on which to perch and soak up the sun.  Carcassonne also has a wonderful outdoor swimming pool, with a paddling pool for toddlers and is open in the main season.  Outdoor tennis courts available to hire are conveniently situated next to the pool. A Petanque/Boules Court is alongside the river with a stunning view of La Cité,