Domaine Des Aromes

Surrounded by over 600 acres of private land, Domaine Des Arômes is a rural paradise in the dreamy Languedoc countryside, yet only 15km from the fine historic city of Carcassonne.

There is already so much to see in the stunning grounds, whether exploring the pine-filled forests, discovering the small lake and streams or walking across the garrigue-covered hills. Come across wild lavender and thyme, olive trees, vines and glorious meadows. Discover the abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna (this is a protected conservation zone) and spot rare birds. Take an evening picnic up to the top of a hill and watch the sun set.  

Keen hikers can also follow some wonderful trails in the surrounding area whilst cyclists can ride various routes and discover the breath-taking scenery (bike hire, including electric and mountain bikes, can be arranged with plenty of advance notice). There is also an equestrian centre in one of the local villages, offering treks for all abilities which the owners can help book for you (this area is known for horses grazing on the pastures - there are even two rescued horses within the domaine).

The nearest villages are around a 10 to 15-minute drive away where you will find small grocery stores, a boulangerie for morning bread and pastries as well as a couple of restaurants. Larger supermarkets can be found towards Trèbes and Carcassonne. In the great city of Carcassonne itself you will find a range of amazing restaurants, some featuring Michelin stars, as well as wonderful markets selling fruit, vegetables, local meats, cheeses and all sorts of regional delights.

The medieval Cité de Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts visitors from all over the world. Walk along the citadel’s 3km long walls, explore the narrow lanes filled with little shops, bars and restaurants and visit its museums. In July look out for the Festival de Carcassonne as well as the Bastille Day fireworks, some of the best in France.

There are also many idyllic villages across the Languedoc. Visit the beautiful abbey in Lagrasse, also a great spot for summer riving swimming in L’Orbieu (or head up to nearby Ribaute where you can cool off by the little waterfalls).  

The Minervois region offers spectacular landscapes, wild gorges and pretty villages such as Aigne with its wine-tasting caves and Minerve, one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ with a fascinating Cathar history. There are of course many Cathar fortresses across this part of France including the famous Château de Quéribus and Château de Montségur.

Limoux is home to some excellent restaurants, has a lovely weekly market on a Monday morning and hosts some great wine-festivals in the summer. Toulouse, the ‘rose-city’ is another fantastic day out with its historic sights and brilliant shops.

Beach-lovers can be by the sea in an hour with the likes of Gruissan Plage just outside of Narbonne and the coastline around the Parc Naturel Régional de la Narbonnaise easily reached. Leucate Plage is an especially picturesque spot with an excellent beachside bistro serving freshly caught seafood and other delights. 

Closer to home, other activities nearby include an 18-hole golf course in beautiful surroundings, tennis courts in Carcassonne as well as go-karting, a tree-top activity centre, an aquapark at a local lake as well as kayaking and canoeing on nearby rivers. If staying in the winter then Les Monts d'Olmes offers skiing on the edge of the Pyrenees, just under two hours by car. 

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.