The Aude offers a multitude of cultural, sporting and historical activities. Among the best-known are, of course, the medieval city of Carcassonne, the Cathar castles, the area around Narbonne, the Mediterranean coast and the Montagne Noire.

Do you also know Lagrasse? Fontfroide Abbey, the marble quarries of Caunes Minervois?

Or pop over to the neighboring departments for a visit to Minerve, the Gorges de Galamus and the port of Sète. More the sporting type? Rendezvous each year for the Mondial du Vent in La Franqui.

Carcassonne

Everyone knows Carcassonne for its medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ramparts, the Château Comtal, the first walls from the Gallo-Roman era, a visit to the inner ramparts. Carcassonne also offers a wonderful festival in July. It’s magical to be able to attend open-air concerts within the ramparts. More information

Discover the “other Carcassonne” too, with the CitĂ© d’en-bas, Place Carnot and Maison Cabanel – an artisanal liquor maker created by Joseph Cabanel in 1868 – which makes its own Pastis Cabanel.

Lagrasse, in the heart of the Corbières mountains, is one of France’s most beautiful villages

Stroll through the medieval village, follow the signposted route, visit the abbey and have lunch at the restaurant Le Bastion. On Saturday mornings, there’s a small market under the halls, which date back to the 4th century. Swimming in the Orbieu is supervised in summer. More information

Ribaute

Ribaute is a small village on the banks of the Orbieu. It’s the summer spot where all river-swimming enthusiasts gather. It’s a popular spot, so in summer it can get quite crowded. Swimming in the Orbieu is a delight, and you can spend a relaxing day by the water with your picnic.

The Canal du Midi links Toulouse to the Mediterranean and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Canal crosses 4 départements: Tarn, Haute Garonne, Aude and Herault.

Key figures: 240 km long, 14 years in the making, 63 locks, 126 bridges, 55 aqueducts and 7 canal bridges. Whether you want to explore it by bike, boat or on foot, the Canal is a must-see tourist attraction. Depending on what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to ask us for more information, or consult the many websites on the subject. More information

Abbaye de Fontfroide

Fontfroide Abbey is located at 10 minutes from Narbonne and around 20 minutes from LaFabriek. Nestled in the heart of nature, you’d never know it was so sumptuous. You’re sure to fall in love. More information

Minerve is also one of France’s most beautiful villages. Protected by the Gorges de la Cesse et du Brian, between the Canal du Midi and the Montagne Noire, Minerve can be visited on foot. Stroll through its medieval streets and learn all about the Cathars who took refuge in Minerve in 1210.

Admire the splendid views, and why not take a hike on this magnificent site and in the surrounding vineyards. More information