Domaine Des Arbres

Domaine Des Arbres enjoys a rural setting only a 15-minute drive from Carcassonne, one of France’s most visited destinations with its medieval cité, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by vineyards, this is a wonderful location for exploring this captivating region of southern France. 

A small village is only 1.7km by car, home to a hotel-restaurant, or drive to the next village around 3km away with its small grocery shop and bakery. For stocking up, larger supermarkets can be found in the outskirts of Carcassonne.

Activity lovers will appreciate horse-riding within a 5-minute and the close proximity of Golf de Carcassonne (4.5km). In the height of the summer, discover watersports, an inflatable waterpark and lakeside beaches with supervised swimming at Lac de la Cavayère (11km) alongside a tree-top adventure centre, beach volleyball courts and picnic spots.

The highlight of this area is Carcassonne (7km), a destination where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. At its core lies the UNESCO-listed Cité de Carcassonne, a fairy-tale medieval fortress that seems to rise from the pages of a storybook. Wander through its cobbled streets, marvelling at ancient stone walls, imposing towers, and the majestic Basilica of Saint-Nazaire. From the ramparts, soak in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, a patchwork of vineyards and rolling hills.

Beyond the Cité, Carcassonne’s allure extends to the lively Bastide Saint-Louis. This 13th-century town is a hub of vibrant local life, with bustling markets, elegant squares, and charming shops. Stroll along the picturesque Canal du Midi, another UNESCO World Heritage site, or hire bikes to explore further afield along the canal’s towpath. For those seeking a taste of the region, the city offers gastronomic delights, including the famed cassoulet, paired with fine wines.

Speaking of wine, Carcassonne sits at the gateway to the Languedoc region, a paradise for wine lovers. Embark on a tasting tour whether visiting local vineyards or exploring beyond the region as you savour robust reds, crisp whites and sparkling blanquette de Limoux, thought to be the world’s oldest sparkling wine.

Read more about Carcassonne

Whilst most visitors flock to Carcassonne for its fortified citadel, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is so much to experience across the historic city and its beautiful surroundings.

It goes without saying that the great highlight of Carcassonne is Europe’s largest walled fortress with its warren of winding lanes with cafes and little shops alongside its impressive towers and ramparts – guided tours along the city walls can be arranged. It feels like a fairytale for young and old with knights in armour, horse-drawn carriage rides and fascinating museums.

Look out for festivities and events throughout the year, the most famous being July’s Festival de Carcassonne with cultural and musical events taking place across the city. What’s more, the Bastille Day fireworks are some of the most magnificent in France.

Beyond the citadel, cross the Aude River and soak up the vibrant ambience of Le Bastide de Saint-Louis, a bustling neighbourhood with its own rich heritage. Start at Place Carnot with its café terraces, impressive fountain and wonderful market three mornings or head straight to the gourmet stalls of Les Halles’ covered market. Dine out in atmospheric restaurants serving the best regional cuisine perhaps accompanied by a glass of Minervois, Corbières or other excellent wine from the vineyards surrounding the Cité de Carcassonne.

Then there’s the tranquility of the city's Le Canal du Midi just perfect to explore on foot, by bike or via boat. In one direction you can cycle along the canalside towpath to Castelnaudary, famed for its pretty marina and restaurants serving cassoulet. On another day head east towards Trèbes, Homps, Argens-Minervois and other picture-perfect wine villages across the Hérault’s Minerve region, the perfect trip out from your Carcassonne holiday home.