Our ‘walking for fitness’ holidays are centred at the traditional Auberge du Balestie. In the heart of Cathar country just 30 minutes from Carcassonne, 5 minutes from Mirepoix and nestled on top of a hill, overlooking a picturesque lake and with magnificent views of the Pyrenees, the setting of the hotel is outstanding.

This is Cathar Country.

 

The Cathars were a religious group who appeared in Europe in the 11^th Century, they were a dissident sect of Christians and as such, were heavily persecuted. They took refuge in hilltop fortresses (known today as ’Cathar castles’), many of which remain to this day. Set amidst rolling countryside, it offers an unrivalled variety of walking. MONTSEGUR is perhaps the most famous of the "castles in the sky."

MIREPOIX

 

is a medieval market town of 3100 permanent inhabitants situated halfway between Carcassonne and Foix. During the Middle Ages, the town was flourishing, with nearly 2000 inhabitants and many shops and industries. In 1279, the barrage at Puivert ruptured and caused massive flooding that destroyed the whole village, sparing only the château. It was re-built in 1289. The Place du Maréchal-Leclerc is one of the best and most evocative medieval squares in Europe. The medieval buildings that line the square are held up by massive beams - the ends of those of the richest houses are sculpted with people and animals.

CARCASSONNE

is a spectacular medieval walled town is a UNESCO world heritage site and offers a genuine description of ‘breathtaking’.

There is no fee to enter the Cité - this is a working town with private houses, shops, hotels, and restaurants.