Places to Visit

Roquefort les Cascades waterfalls

Travel time (walking): approx. . 1 hour
Travel time (car): approx. 5 minutes

Situated just above the picturesque village of Roquefort les Cascades, spring water from deep within the limestone rock flows down the side of the valley, forming breathtaking waterfalls. The cascades are split into three tiers, with the first two being accessible by car. Parking is provided by the second tier, and a short walk up the side of the valley takes you to the third and most spectacular waterfall. The falls are located within a five minute drive of La Maison De Roquefort, while those of a more active nature can walk from the house to the falls, following a trail which takes in the beautiful French countryside and native woodland.

The Cathar monument of Roquefixade

Travel time (car): approx. 20 minutes

One of the great Cathar strongholds, this famous castle finally fell to catholic crusaders in the 13th century. Subsequently abandoned, the ruined walls of Roquefixade make for an impressive sight, situated high on a rocky crag above the village which has taken it's name. Parking is provided at the foot of the escarpment for visitors content to view the monument from below, while those who climb the somewhat steep trail from the car park to the ruin itself are rewarded with breath-taking views across the mountains and surrounding valley to Montségur, another famous Cathar monument. Hikers and mountain bikers can take the official trail to Roquefixade from the house and over the adjoining valley.

Rennes-le-Château and the Abbé Saunière

Travel time (car): approx. 40 minutes

A short drive east of La Maison de Roquefort, within the neighbouring Aude region, is the magical village of Rennes-le-Château. This ancient site has been occupied by man since Neolithic times (over 3,000 years ago). Remains of Gaul, Roman, Visigoth and Merovingian occupation give rise to rumours of hidden treasures and great secrets passed down from generation to generation.

The key story dates back to 1781 and the Lady d’Hautpoul, who is believed to have passed on such a secret to her confessor, the abbé Bigou before she died. Bigou subsequently hid parchments the Lady had passed to him in a Visigoth pillar at the church of Saint Magdalen.

In 1891, during early restoration work at the church, the abbé Bérenger Saunière recorded the discovery of a tomb below the church. From this day onward, Saunière and his housekeeper, Marie Denarnaud lived as though they had access to an exhaustible fortune.

For more information about the village of Rennes-le-Château and the mysteries surrounding it visit:

http://www.rennes-le-chateau.fr/

http://www.rennes-le-chateau-archive.com/

http://www.rennes-le-chateau.co.uk/index.htm

The historic, walled city of Carcassonne

Travel time (car): approx. 1 hour

Positioned on a rocky outcrop above the modern-day city of Carcassonne, the medieval walled city is an impressive sight and a registered location of UNESCO world heritage importance. Once through the impressive gatehouse and within the massive stone walls, visitors are greeted by a bustling town with countless shops of all descriptions lining it's historic streets, while the town's museums and art galleries offer a great deal for those looking for culture. For visitors with history in mind, tours are available of the medieval ramparts and other areas of the monument, including it's historic castle and cathedral. A number of fantastic restaurants are arranged in one of the town squares, and offer a variety of menus in a pleasant, shaded environment.

The Official Carcassonne Website (multi-lingual): www.carcassonne.org

"La Maison des Loups" Wolf Sanctuary

Travel time (car): 1 hour 30 minutes

Nestled amid the picturesque scenery and woodland of Les Forges d'Orlu, La Maison des Loups is home to several species of wolf, including Arctic, Canadian and European wolves. Large viewing areas are ideally located, allowing visitors to view these intelligent and elusive creatures among the dense woodland. Feeding time offers a rare opportunity to see the wolves up-close, and you may even be lucky enough to glimpse the small bodies of pups in the undergrowth. Ample parking is provided near the entrance and giftshop and the sanctuary is located next to several other impressive attractions, including an outdoor pursuits centre and observatory.

The Maison Des Loups Website (french only): www.maisondesloups.com