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.

Abbaye de Fontfroide

Location: The Abbaye de Fontfroide is located about 5km to the south west of Narbonne via the D613.
General Info: Tel: 04 68 45 11 08.  Website.
Description: This is an old but fascinating Cistercian abbey dating back nearly 1000 years.  It’s privately owned and can only be visited as part of a one hour guided tour (in French).  The gardens can be wandered unaccompanied.
Our recommendations: It’s best to come early in the morning, or later in the day to avoid the inevitable crowds.
For the children: Although this is an amazing place, there’s probably not so much to interest children.  So we’d recommend that you combine an early morning visit here with a trip south on the D611 to see the Cathar castles at Queribus and Peyrepertuse.  There are several places along the way where one can stop for a picnic lunch.  Or you could make an extended day out by combining it with our Cathar Castle tour.

   - 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 lie the four fortresses of Lastours. In the foothills of the Montagne Noire.

- Cathar Country - website on the Pays Cathar.