In the Footsteps of the Cathars
8 or 15 days, Self-guided for 2 people or more, Seasonal Daily Departures
In the northern foothills of the Pyrenees, close to the Mediterranean, this walk takes you to the heart of the Corbieres region. Whilst walking through the lush and beautiful region of valleys and rolling hills, you have plenty of time to explore the numerous imposing, mystic stone castles that are scattered on rocky crags. The trails pass through a variety of terrain where you may see whole families tending their vineyards. Every evening you will receive a warm welcome with fine foods and local wines to taste. You can choose to finish the walk at Quillan (for one week), or continue for a second week to Foix.- Days 1 and 2. Outbound
- Fly out to Toulouse or Carcassonne and spend the night in one of the these historic towns before transferring the following day onto the small village of Duilhac sous Peyrepertuse.
- Days 3 to 7. Duilhac to Quillan
- The Cathar footpath takes you through rolling vineyards and fragrant vegetation, passing many country villages where time seems to have stood still. You will have the chance to take in the many old castles and enjoy the panoramic views that they offer. You cross many passes from where you descend into valleys alongside bouncing rivers. Some afternoons are spent walking along old walled lanes under the shade of enormous oak and chestnut trees. All along the way there are opportunities to delve into the history of the area at the Galamus hermitage, Rennes Chateau, and Burgarach. In the evenings you will be able to savour plenty of locally cooked fresh food and regional wines.
- Day 8. Quillan
- Today you either take a rest day or a short walk in your two-week trip, or make the journey home to the UK if you are following the one-week itinerary.
- Days 9 to 14. Puivert to Foix
- Transfer to the village of Nebias from where you walk to the famous Puivert Castle, passing through juniper and oak which give the air a subtle fragrance. Pine forests abounding with deer open up onto high plateau where you will stay in traditional mountain villages. The walk through the famous 'Frau' gorge, notched out of the chalk leads to the village of Montsegur where a full day will be spent either exploring the area, or just looking at the museum and art craft shops. From here the route continues on to the mediaeval castle of Roquefixade and finally Foix where you can enjoy its lively atmosphere, market and castle.
- Day 15. Homeward
- After a morning spent enjoying Foix you travel back to the UK.
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- Tour grade: B/C
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Cost per person - September to June:
One week £495 land only.
Two weeks £890 land only. -
Cost per person July and August:
One week £530 land only.
Two weeks £955 land only. -
Single supplement:
One week £110.
Two weeks £220. - CO2 offset cost: £1.60.
- What is included: Accommodation, most meals, baggage transfers, route notes and maps.
- Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses
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Departure dates:
Saturdays, March to November.