Cathar Country Tour
The Cathars, the Knights Templar, Rennes-le-Chatêau, The Saunière Mystery,
The Da Vinci Code, The Magdalene & Mysteries of the Cathar Country
On this epic adventure we will be visiting the Cathar Country; lands steeped in mystery and legend stretching back thousands of years. The Cathar Country is in the Languedoc, Occitanie region, nestling in the foothills of the Pyrénées in the South of France. It boasts a rich, diverse and fascinating history all set within some of the most beautiful and spectacular countryside anywhere. These lands were the home to the mighty Visigoths, the mysterious Merovingian kings, the Knights Templar and the mystical Cathars themselves who suffered most cruelly and bravely for their beliefs. More recently they were the home of François Bérenger Saunière, the priest of the tiny hilltop hamlet of Rennes-le-Chatêau, who’s intriguing story inspired a BBC documentary series, the world best seller ‘Holy Blood, Holy Grail’ and the international block-buster novel and Hollywood movie, ‘The Da Vinci Code’. This tiny hill top hamlet of Rennes-le-Chatêau has truly become World famous.
We will head for the Languedoc and Aude Valley and back to the time of the Knights Templar and the Cathars. In the lands of the Cathar ‘Heretics’ we will explore a variety of aspects of some of Europe’s most intriguing history. We will visit Cathar and Knights Templar castles perched high upon mountain peaks, including the amazing Chatêau Montségur, the site of the final tragic massacre where the Cathars marched singing into the flames of their enemies. For the second half of your time in the Cathar Country you will be immersed in the fascinating story of the priest Bérenger Saunière and the Rennes-le-Chatêau mystery.
Day 1. Meet in Carcassonne
On your arrival in the Cathar Country Neil will meet you at Carcassonne airport or Rail Station and take you to your hotel in the historic town of Quillan, your home for the next 8 days. Your stay will be on a bed and breakfast basis, so you will be free to explore the town and take in its restaurants and bars at your leisure.
The Town of Quillan
Day 2. Beginning of the Albigensian Crusade & Ancient Carcassonne
Today we begin our exploration into the story of the gnostic, mystical sect known as the Cathars. We will look at who they were, what they believed and the terrible events that led to their destruction.
The Albigensian Crusade began in 1209 in the town of Beziers when the French armies laid siege before initiating a devastating massacre that resulted in the slaughter of the whole population of the town.
The Albigensian Crusade began in 1209 with the terrible massacre of Beziers and moved onto the mighty ancient city of Carcassonne where the saga developed with the ascent to power of Simon de Montfort, the scourge of the Languedoc.
This morning, we will have plenty of free time to explore this remarkable medieval town where the ancient infrastructure has been merged with the present to create a unique experience with numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, the spectacular ramparts, the Chateau Comtal and Cathedral of San Michel.
In the afternoon we will visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Marceille, a place where history, faith, and quiet beauty meet. For centuries, pilgrims walking the Santiago de Compostela route have paused here to rest, reflect, and seek blessing before continuing their journey.
Renowned as a site of pilgrimage, the basilica is dedicated to the Black Madonna of Marceille, an object of deep devotion. Its origins stretch back to the early Middle Ages, and the church’s elegant blend of Romanesque foundations and later Gothic elements tells the story of generations of worshippers who have passed through its doors.
We will then take a break in the historic town square on Limoux and experience this typical hub of French life.
Mirepoix and Basilique Notre-Dame-de-Marceille
DAY 3. MONTSEGUR & MIREPOIX
The spectacular Castle of Montségur sitting high up on a mountain peak was the place where the Cathars faced their infamous last stand. We will have the opportunity to climb up to the castle, take in the awe-inspiring atmosphere and visit the ‘Cathar memorial’ to this tragic day. We will then head into Montsegur Village ror a lunch break, before heading for the picturesque Medieval Cathar town of Mirepoix with its unique painted buildings, a place you won’t forget.
Day 4. The Gorges de Galamus, The Rock Cut Hermitage of Saint Anthony & Chateau de Puilaurens
Today we will discover one of the most dramatic natural and spiritual landscapes of southern France on this unforgettable journey through the Gorges de Galamus. At the heart of the gorge lies the Hermitage of Saint Anthony, a truly spectacular sight. Built directly into the cliff face in the 18th century, this remarkable sanctuary appears to cling impossibly to the rock. Dedicated to Saint Anthony the Hermit, it has long been a place of pilgrimage and contemplation. During your visit, you will explore the small chapel and terraces, where the hermits once lived in solitude, and enjoy panoramic views across the gorge below.
In the afternoon, Perched dramatically on a rocky ridge in the foothills of the Pyrenees, the Château de Puilaurens is a destination that feels lifted straight from the Cathar times. As your journey winds through dense forests and mountain air scented with pine, the first glimpse of the castle’s stone ramparts instantly transports you to medieval France.
Rising to nearly 700 meters above sea level, Puilaurens offers sweeping panoramic views across the valleys of the Aude and toward the distant peaks of the Pyrenees. This strategic fortress, once a key stronghold on the former frontier between France and Aragon, retains an atmosphere of mystery and resilience. Its well-preserved walls, towers, and battlements invite visitors to imagine watchmen scanning the horizon and messengers carrying news across the mountains.
Château de Puilaurens and The Hermitage of Saint Anthony of Galamus
Day 5. Espéraza Market & the beginning of our journey into the mystery of Father Sauniere & Rennes les Chateau
The quiet commune on Espéraza holds a typical French, Occitanie market on Thursday mornings so today we will spend a couple of hours experiencing this vibrant scene. After this we will begin our look into the intriguing mystery that surrounds the now infamous priest Berenger Saunière as we head for the hilltop hamlet of Rennes le Chatêau, the centre of the Da Vinci Code and story and the Holy Bloodline. We will begin with a discussion of the background of the Saunière mystery in the out-door cafe overlooking the Rennes le Chatêau church and then have plenty of time to look around this church and the ‘Saunière Domain Museum’. On the way we will have a drive up to Montazels, to see Saunière’s birthplace.
Day 7. Espéraza Market – A Lively Slice of Aude Valley Life
Nestled along the banks of the River Aude, the charming town of Espéraza comes alive on Sundays with one of the most authentic markets in the Aude Valley. This vibrant gathering offers a true taste of southern French life, where locals and visitors mingle amid the colours, scents, and sounds of the region.
Stroll through bustling stalls laden with sun-ripened fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, cured meats, fresh bread, olives, and regional wines. Artisans display handcrafted goods, from leatherwork and jewellery to textiles and Provençal essentials, making the market an ideal place to find unique souvenirs.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with café terraces spilling onto the pavements and the gentle backdrop of the surrounding foothills of the Pyrenees. Take time to pause for a coffee or a glass of local wine, soak up the convivial ambience, and watch everyday village life unfold.
Day 7. A day delving further into Rennes les Chateau Mystery with visits to Rennes les Bains, Coustaussa and Alet le Bains
Today we will visit the town of Rennes-les-Bains, where the churchyard holds a couple of interesting secrets left there by the Abbe Henri Budet, a friend and fellow conspirator of Saunirer. We will also drive up to the small town of Coustaussa where Father Gélis, another friend of Saunière’s, met his death in extremely unusual circumstances.
We will also visit the peaceful and serene medieval walled town of Alet-les-Bains, famous for its thermal springs and as an historic religious centre. Crossing the river Aude by the old ricketry stone bridge and seeing the towns many wooden framed buildings you feel the centuries fade away and you are back in the times of the Medieval alchemists and cabbalists that once lived here. The house of Nostradamus is to be found in the main square.
Day 8. Return to Carcassonne
To bring your exploration to a close Neil will transfer you to Carcassonne airport or train station for your journey home with your memories of this most beautiful and mystical of places
8 Day Tour Price £1400
Single Supplement £100
Deposit £400
Includes – All transport and site visits from pick-up at Carcassonne airport/rail station, Bed & Breakfast & many site entrance fees
Does not include – air fares and insurance (please make arrangement for private travel insurance cover).
Please note, all deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless the tour is cancelled by Neil.