Cathar Castles and Abbeys in Languedoc-Roussillon
Innumerable hilltop fortresses can be found in the department of Aude with a fascinating history dating back as far as the 11th century.  They are a continuing reminder of the bitter feuding between the French nobility (representing the Catholic Church) and the Cathar religion.  Although the castles are largely ruins today they still have fabulous settings and provide a pleasant option for a short trip and a bit of exercise (some of the castles have very steep climbs to reach them!).  For convenience, we've also grouped some splendid abbeys in this section.

Château de Puilaurens
 

Location: On the D117 about 50 km west of Perpignan.

General Info: Entry prices are €3.5 for an adult, €1.5 for a child age 6 – 12. Opening hours are 10AM – 6PM April – September and 9AM – 8PM in peak season.  In February, March and the first 15 days of November it is only open in school holidays and at weekends.

Description:  This is one of the best preserved of the Cathar castles in a great setting above the village.  At a height of 690m the Château de Puilaurens appears suddenly on your left as you drive along the main road from Perpignan.

Our recommendations:  Can be combined with a visit to the other nearby Cathar castles or the Gorge de Galamus or as an addition to our Cathar Castle driving tour.

For the children:  As with many castles we find the children don't mind these attractions as they make their own entertainment with things like hide and seek, or simple things like counting the steps!  But to make it a more memorable day out you could combine a visit here with a trip canoeing or white water rafting in the gorge between Axat and Quillan.

   - Abbaye de Fontfroide
   - Abbaye de St Martin-de-Canigou
   - Château de Queribus
   - Château de Peyrepertuse
   - Château de Puilaurens
   - Montségur

Lastours. Just 12 km north of Carcassonne within the valley of the Orbiel lies the four fortresses of Lastours. In the foothills of the Montagne Noire.

- Cathar Country - website on the Pays Cathar.