Chateau Des Cathares
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Set in four hectares of beautiful parkland, the majestic 13th-century Château Des Cathares is a fairy-tale castle full of character and history. Located in the...
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Set in four hectares of beautiful parkland, the majestic 13th-century Château Des Cathares is a fairy-tale castle full of character and history. Located in the amazing Cathar country, near the delightful market town of Mirepoix, this is a magical place where young and old can stay in this enchanting part of the Languedoc.
The castle was originally built in the thirteenth century by a Cathar Lord and later extended some three hundred years later. The current owner is a sculptor whose work you can see across the grounds and it has been her labour of love to create a grand yet warm and welcoming family home. Each of the ten bedrooms has its own story to tell with immense character and beautiful pieces of artwork and furnishings from across the centuries. The grand reception rooms allow you to dine by the open-fire in cooler months or enjoy the view of the gardens from the summer salon. If you’re planning a special party or a spectacular wedding then the Knights’ Hall is fit for a banquet and guests can sip champagne by the terraces for a unique and unforgettable event.
Yet despite the traditional ambience, you’ll find contemporary bathrooms plus modern appliances in the well-equipped kitchen and there’s Wi-Fi for guests to use. Families can enjoy table-tennis, board games and table football plus there are children’s toys and books, whilst older guests can browse the impressive library or have a game of French billiards. The owner can arrange for services such as a private chef or babysitter to make your stay as relaxing as it can be.
In the grounds of the château, with its own entrance and garden, is a delightful 18th century cottage with perfectly modern interiors and four further bedrooms. With its own charm and character, this is the ideal place for an extended family gathering or holiday with friends. For 21 guests or more the cottage is included in the rental price or it can be rented separately.
Outside you can explore the vast parkland and private forest, also a wonderful setting for a wedding, or relax by the lawns of the immaculate swimming pool, in the shade of the ancient trees or by one of the owner’s sculptures. This region is a hiker’s paradise with rolling hills and valleys full of sunflowers whilst there are also opportunities to cycle, horse-ride or fish nearby.
The local village, just five minutes by car, has a bakery, butchers and little grocery store or head to the historical town of Mirepoix, famous for its ancient timer-framed houses and amazing market on a Monday morning in the beautiful square. Food lovers take note that foie gras is produced in the farm just across from the château and of course there are some stunning wines to sample in vineyards across the Languedoc region.
This is the Cathar country with so many spectacular castles and ruins to explore, such as the most famous in nearby Montségur. The incredible fortified city of Carcassonne is just forty-five minutes away, with delightful Limoux and vibrant Toulouse also within an hour’s drive. You may prefer to just head nearer to home such as pretty Castelnaudary (30km), the birthplace of the Cathars, where you can take a boat trip or cycle ride along the Canal du Midi.
After a day exploring this outstanding region, you will still feel the spirit of the Cathars in your ancient medieval castle, a truly unique place to stay in this very special part of southern France.
What you should know…
- Please note that only the 29 guests prices include the use of the cottage – the 21 guests prices include the château only and in this instance the cottage (suitable for up to 8 guests) may be rented out separately.
- The château and cottage must be rented together in July & August (29 guests price).
- Guests in the cottage only have access to the swimming pool and estate if it is rented together with the château.
- Due to the immense character, you’ll find some low ceilings and doorways.
This home is a part of our Great Value and Heritage Collection!
This is a historic home, and as such:
- It has probably been standing for over 100 years, which means it's full of historic value and charm but it may also have one or two quirks!
- Some of the decor and furnishings may not be brand new, but that should not detract from your holiday experience in this unique setting that allows you to take a step back in time!
Property Features
1) Château Des Cathares and Cottage (29 guests)
2) Château Des Cathares Only (21 guests)
Interior of Château (up to 21 guests)
Ground Floor (accessed via steps up from the outside)
- Entrance Hall (26m2)
- Guest WC
- Dining room (44m2) with fireplace
- Summer living room (34m2) with doors opening up to terrace and steps to gardens
- Kitchen (23m2), well-equipped
- Double bedroom (35m2) with en-suite shower room and separate WC
- Twin bedroom (24m2) which leads to a double bedroom (15m2, circular). Bathroom with bath and WC
- Twin bedroom (21m2)
- Twin bedroom (16m2)
- Bathroom with bath, shower and WC (shared between the above two twin bedrooms)
First Floor
- Upstairs dining room (24m2) with fireplace
- Billiard room (45m2) with fireplace
- Knights’ Hall / library (86m2, suitable for events)
- Separate WC
- Double bedroom (25m2)
- Double bedroom (45m2 including raised platform) with en-suite shower room and WC
- Bedroom with single and queen-size bed (27m2) with en-suite shower room and WC
- Double bedroom (28m2) with en-suite shower room and WC. Bedroom leads to an additional double bedroom (15m2, circular)
4 folding single beds and 2 cots can be made available on request
Interior of Cottage (up to 8 further guests)
Ground Floor
- Entrance Hall
- Dining room (14m2)
- Living room (15m2) with fire-place and doors leading outside to front garden area
- Kitchen (11m2), well-equipped with breakfast table
- Double bedroom (14m2) with en-suite shower room (7m2)
- Separate WC
First Floor
- Bathroom with bath and washbasin
- Separate WC
- Twin bedroom (16m2)
- 2 x Twin bedroom (14m2)
1 cot available for guests use
Outside Grounds
- Swimming pool (10mx6m) with safety alarm. Open approximately May to early October
- Barbecue
- North and South terraces (château)
- Gardens, forest and parkland (4 hectares around château)
- Various garden furnishing
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- French billiards (château)
- Library (château)
- Table-tennis (château)
- Table football (château)
- Children’s games, toys
- Children’s books and DVDs
- Children’s bikes
- Access to a washing machine
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau Des CatharesChâteau Des Cathares and the cottage are set in a spectacular location of four hectares of gardens, parkland and a private forest. In the nearby village (7km) you will find a bakery for your morning croissants and bread, a butchers, a small grocery shop with bar and a garage with a café. It’s just a little further to larger supermarkets such as those in Mirepoix (16km) or Pamiers (24km).
This area is a paradise for hikers with the rolling hills and valleys. There is tennis in the local village as well as horse-riding and fishing nearby and golf lovers can head to Golf de Carcassonne within 45 minutes. If you are a food lover then you may appreciate the foie gras producer in the farm just across from the château and don’t miss the highly recommended Monday morning market in nearby Mirepoix (16km), a delightful town known for its beautiful market square and ancient timer-framed houses.
Discover the Romanesque ruins and 13th century castles dotted around the landscapes; within a short drive you can be in the heart of the Cathar country. Visit the ruins of the famous Château de Montségur (45km), one of the last strongholds of the Cathars and there’s a museum in the village nearby.
Head north to Castelnaudary (27km), the birthplace of the Cathars, and be sure to try some local cassoulet as well as taking a boat trip around the grand bassin of the Canal du Midi. The cycle route along the Canal du Midi may also appeal as it’s suitable for all abilities and ages, making a perfect day out for the whole family with a picnic stop along the way.
It goes without saying that the fortified city of Carcassonne (48km) is a must see, there are guided tours and medieval shows throughout the summer to entertain all visitors. One of the largest local markets is in Carcassonne, held on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings at Place Carnot in the town centre.
Other day trips should include delightful Limoux (45km), on the Aude River, always bustling with activity, especially in the summer. The market on a Friday morning is simply wonderful when shopping for local, fresh produce or simply find a picturesque café in one of the pretty squares for coffee and pastries. You are also not too far from Toulouse (70km), known as ‘La Ville Rose’ (the pink city), a vibrant place full of history and culture with many cafes, restaurants, museums and shops as well as the City of Space, a must for all the family.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Town/City |
Mirepoix
(16km) |
||
| Nearest Airport |
Carcassonne Airport/Toulouse Airport
(45km/85km) |
||
| Sightseeing |
Mirepoix/Castelnaudary
(16km/27km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Avignonet-Lauragais
(33km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
(7km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
(Lake) Lac De Montbel Cote Leran
(40km) |
||
Region
Languedoc-Roussillon is one of those areas of France where you can feel like you’re totally cut off from the rest of the country. Commercial tourism has been very slow to capitalise on the region, meaning you can still enjoy a slice of authentic French rural life at its finest. A mixture of landscapes also makes it a great place to visit, with a good stretch of coastline offering a totally different experience to more bucolic interiors. Whatever you’re looking for, our range of villas and chateaux in Languedoc means you can get exactly the kind of holiday you want with accommodation that’s perfectly tailored to you, your friends and your family.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesThere is tennis in the local village as well as horse-riding nearby. Discover the Romanesque ruins and 13th century castles dotted around the landscapes, including the ruins of the famous Château de Montségur and there’s a museum in the village nearby.
Head north to Castelnaudary and take a boat trip around the grand bassin of the Canal du Midi. The cycle route here may also appeal as it’s suitable for all abilities and ages, making a perfect day out for the whole family with a picnic stop along the way.
The fortified city of Carcassonne is a must see, there are medieval shows throughout the summer to entertain all visitors. You are also not too far from Toulouse, a vibrant place full of history and culture as well as the City of Space, a must for all the family.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Tennis Nearby
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Bikes
- Board games
- Children's books
- Children's videos/DVDs
- Child-Safe Pool
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Pool/Snooker
- DVD
- Toys
Services Available
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
- - Fridge Stocking/Shopping Service Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Babysitting / childcare services
Extras available at this property:
- Catering
- Cleaning
- Fridge stocking/Shopping service
- Baby-Sitting
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
For a romantic French wedding surrounded by history and beauty, Château des Cathares offers a fairy...
Read moreEvent information
For a romantic French wedding surrounded by history and beauty, Château des Cathares offers a fairy-tale venue in southern France. There’s no doubt both you and your guests will be enchanted by this 13th century French château.
Say your vowels in the dappled light beneath the plane trees before feasting with family and friends across the vast private parkland or inside the historic banqueting hall, the Salle des Chevaliers. A range of bespoke services can be organised and you can enjoy the fine gastronomy and wine of this wonderful part of the Languedoc.
Wedding Reception
Inside the château up to 130 guests can be hosted or there is space across the outside grounds for up to 200 people. Renting a marquee is possible (again, with a maximum capacity of 200 guest).
A dance floor can be rented and set up across the grounds with no time or music restrictions. Inside the château there is space for 50 guests to dance in the dining or billiard room.
In the case of poor weather, an indoor reception can be organised (max 130 guests) in the grand Knight's Hall (Salle des Chevaliers).
Wedding Ceremony
There are various spots across the 10 acres of grounds for a ceremony for up to 200 guests such as the maple tree alley or plane tree alley.
Inside the château the Knights’ Hall can seat up to 100 people for an indoor ceremony.
An English speaking celebrant can be requested (not a priest).
Where to Stay
Château Des Cathares can sleep up to 29 people.
For other guests, there are various accommodation options both nearby and further afield (as far as Mirepoix, 16km away). The venue can suggested transportation for guests.
Wedding Planning
The venue can provide a wedding planner or you may provide your own.
Catering
The venue can provide catering or you may organise your own. There is no corkage charge.
Other Information
Events can usually take place May to end-October.
Please enquire for more details about the fixed event fee. The venue can help arrange bespoke services at an extra cost but and no exclusive suppliers.
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €3000 (château only) and €4000 (château & cottage) paid to the owner by bank transfer one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €3000 (château only) and €4000 (château & cottage) paid to the owner by bank transfer one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, excluding pool towels. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. This includes a clean kitchen, no papers or cigarette ends on the lawn or in the yard, removal of waste, etc and ensuring that all furniture, furnishings and fittings are left in their original place and condition as on arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or garbage disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Tax | Tourist tax must be paid locally on arrival. |
| Changeover day | Saturday in July/August. Flexible during all other periods. |
| Minimum stay | Holiday rentals: 2 nights except July, August and Christmas when 7 nights / Event rentals: 4 nights. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to early October. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Insurance | Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, personal belongings, public liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay (a copy of the policy must be provided to the owner prior to the arrival). |
| Other Ts and Cs | The château and cottage must be rented together in July & August (29 guests price). |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 21 people:
| Rental period | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 19th 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £7,521 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Jul 1st 2025 | £4,005 | £4,515 | £5,026 | £5,536 | £6,544 |
| Jul 1st 2025 - Sep 1st 2025 | - | - | - | - | £9,182 |
| Sep 1st 2025 - Dec 19th 2025 | £4,005 | £4,515 | £5,026 | £5,536 | £6,544 |
| - Christmas | - | - | - | - | £7,521 |
| Dec 27th 2025 - Jan 3rd 2026 | £4,005 | £4,515 | £5,026 | £5,536 | £6,544 |
| Jan 3rd 2026 - Jun 22nd 2026 | £4,205 | £4,741 | £5,277 | £5,813 | £6,872 |
Prices based on an occupancy of 29 people:
| Rental period | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 19th 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £9,182 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Jul 1st 2025 | £5,031 | £5,636 | £6,242 | £6,847 | £8,107 |
| Jul 1st 2025 - Sep 1st 2025 | - | - | - | - | £9,182 |
| Sep 1st 2025 - Dec 19th 2025 | £5,060 | £5,665 | £6,271 | £6,877 | £8,107 |
| - Christmas | - | - | - | - | £9,182 |
| Dec 27th 2025 - Jan 3rd 2026 | £5,060 | £5,665 | £6,271 | £6,877 | £8,107 |
| Jan 3rd 2026 - Jun 22nd 2026 | £5,282 | £5,918 | £6,554 | £7,190 | £8,513 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Reviews
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A Magical 30th Birthday Celebration at a Historic Chateau
Our stay at this magnificent chateau to celebrate my 30th birthday was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we booked until our reluctant departure, every aspect of our experience was imbued with warmth, luxury, and unforgettable memories.
Rebecca, the chateau's owner, was the epitome of a perfect host. Her responsiveness and attentiveness were truly remarkable. Before our arrival, she provided a wealth of information about the surrounding towns and potential activities, which proved invaluable for our group, especially those unfamiliar with the area. Her local knowledge and willingness to assist made our stay seamless and allowed us to make the most of our time in this beautiful region.
The chateau itself is a breathtaking blend of historical luxury and modern comfort. Stepping inside felt like traveling back in time while enjoying all the conveniences of the present. The sheer coolness factor of staying in a genuine castle cannot be overstated – it added an extra layer of magic to our celebration.
For large groups, this chateau is a dream come true. The abundance of space ensures that everyone can find their perfect spot, whether seeking quiet relaxation or lively socializing. The gathering spaces, both indoors and outdoors, are perfectly designed for group activities and creating lasting memories.
The kitchen deserves special mention. Spacious and well-equipped, it became the heart of our stay as we prepared several large group meals. For those seeking an extra special experience, Rebecca connected us with Chef Daniel Minet for a private dining event. This turned out to be an absolute highlight of our trip – a 10/10 culinary journey that I cannot recommend highly enough.
Whether you're a history buff, a lover of luxury, or simply seeking a special place for a group gathering, this chateau ticks all the boxes. Thanks to Rebecca's warmth and local expertise, even visitors unfamiliar with the area will feel right at home. Our stay was nothing short of magical, and I'm certain yours will be too. -
A Timeless Gem
Chateau is a truly extraordinary place, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the castle's majestic presence and the tranquility of its surroundings. The perfect blend of ancient architecture and unspoiled nature creates an unforgettable experience. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing guests to relax and fully immerse themselves in the magic of the location.
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It was stupendous!
A group of 21 of us just returned from a week at the Chateau and it was stupendous! We went for a 50th birthday celebration and the Chateau was the ideal setting: peaceful, plenty of space inside and out and of course, the pool! We loved every minute of it as it felt so special to be there with friends, break bread and just enjoy each other's company in this historic place. A big thank you to Rebecca for sharing so many resources to enhance our visit, including a fabulous caterer and wines! We found any and everything we needed in nearby Mirepoix. The real treat though, was simply being at the Chateau. It is a magical place.
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We had a wonderful time and would not hesitate to recommend to others
We hosted a 6t0th birthday at Chateau for 65 guests in early June this year. The venue was perfect for the evening event and in fact 27 guests stayed with us at various times throughout the course of a week either side of the event itself. The bedrooms are large and well appointed, the grounds are beautifully tended and the chateau is situated in a very quiet location. Rebecca was an attentive host across the entire experience. We had a wonderful time and would not hesitate to recommend to others.
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Such a beautiful and unique chateau!
We had our wedding here in May of this year and it was PERFECT! Everything about the chateau was exactly what we wanted. The wedding itself had 50 people and 29 of us slept very comfortably at the chateau for four nights.
The chateau itself is spectacular, and has so many amazing and well preserved features--one of the staircases is oak from the 16th century I believe. Our guests were all very impressed, and it was so much fun to spend a week in such a beautiful and unique chateau!
It was also very well equipped for a wedding, which really made our life so much easier! Make sure to ask Rebecca what she has available that you can use, because it could really save you time and money when it comes to renting equipment you might not need. I really can't say enough good things about this place, and I'm really SO SO happy we picked it for our wedding!
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A magnificent chateau
We spent a delightful weekend with friends and family at this magnificent chateau set in the rolling hills of SW France. A truly magical experience made even more so with the help of the owner, Rebecca . To be highly recommended especially as a wedding venue.
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Dream wedding venue and perfect family holiday stay!
The chateau is gorgeous with plenty of indoor and outdoor options for a large wedding. We stayed for a full week and enjoyed the generously sized pool and grounds. With the chateau and cottage there's room for 28 people. Rebecca was fantastic and helped us find wedding vendors and local suppliers. Mirepoix is 10/15 mins away by car with all the amenities you could want, shops, pubs, restaurants etc. Looking forward to our next visit!
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Spectacular holiday
The words beautiful and stunning are not enough to describe how special this property is. Thank you so much for opening your doors to share this experience to people like us. I am already looking forward to our return. Thank you for all, no detail went unappreciated.
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Magical chateau
Had the most magical holiday. Couldn't have asked for anything better. Looking forward to coming back for our anniversary!
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Dream wedding
Thank you so much for keeping this wonderful gemstone of history alive and in such a great state. My family and friends really enjoyed.
We will keep this castle forever in our hearts and the memory of your support to make our dream wedding possible and real.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
