Domaine Des Volets

Domaine Des Volets is in the Aude department of France only 10km from the historic city of Carcassonne. It’s in a prime location for not only visiting Carcassonne’s medieval citadel but also for exploring the Canal du Midi alongside the pretty villages and landscapes of this part of southern France. The Languedoc coastline can be reached in just over an hour by car.

The two houses are part of a working vineyard – tastings and tours can be arranged by staying guests and also by members of the public (there are usually two or three public tastings a week in the summer). The estate's vinothèque is right behind Le Pigeonnier. You are close to the Canal du Midi (the tow path is on the other side of the canal and the nearest bridge is 1.5km away).

Within a 10-minute cycle ride you can reach a charming canalside village 2.5km away, home to an attractive marina, several restaurants, two large supermarkets and other useful amenities. Head to the 14th century church and village market on a Sunday morning followed by a pleasant walk or cycle ride along the canal.

It is amazing being so close to Carcassonne (10km) – the medieval citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most visited destinations. Head there early to truly appreciate the character of the medieval lanes with restaurants, cafes, shops, wine-bars and museums. You can tour the ramparts, enter the main castle and look out for all sorts of festivities and re-enactments in the French school holidays.

The other part of Carcassonne is Bastide de Saint Louis, the town’s old quarter that dates back to the 13th century. Soak up the atmosphere of Place Carnot with its terrace cafes, fountain and market three mornings a week, then explore the many historic lanes and boulevards lined with enticing restaurants and shops. The Canal du Midi also flows through this part of town near the train station (with departures across southern France).

For other days out, consider spending time in Castelnaudary (45km) known for its regional dish, le cassoulet, or venture further to the handsome city of Toulouse (104km), known as the Pink City with its rose-hued architecture. In the other direction lies historic Narbonne (60km) and the Languedoc beaches around Gruissan Plage (73km) and Leucate (87km), both just over an hour away by car. This part of the Mediterranean is known for its vast sandy beaches, wind-based watersports and delicious oysters.

Closer to home, discover picturesque Minervois villages dotted along or near the Canal du Midi and find summer picnic or swimming spots by the Aude River. Come across other Languedoc vineyards and authentic wine villages alongside the gorgeous market towns of Limoux (39km) and Mirepoix (62km), not to mention idyllic countryside villages including Lagrasse (31km) and Minerve (40km).

Meanwhile, history lovers take note that some of France’s magnificent Cathar castles can also be visited for a grand day out – Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours (20km) are less than half an hour away whilst Château de Montségur (86km) is around 90 minutes 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.