ITINERARY

Day 1 / Arrival and Welcome

Guests will be picked up at the Foix Gare around mid-day. After pickup, we will have a relaxing picnic lunch before visiting Quéribus Castle. We will take a step back in time as we explore one of the castles that never fell during the Albigensian Crusade. The castle, built in the 11th century, still stands tall and showcases a marvel of architectural ingenuity. The 360-degree views from the castle are breathtaking, as one can see much of the region and out to the Mediterranean Sea. 

That evening, we will travel down the hill from Quéribus and reach Cucugnan, where we will settle into our lodging and prepare for our first hike. Cucugnan is a charming village with quaint shops, restaurants, and a centuries-old functional windmill that grinds grain for the local bakery. It is an enchanting first home base. Later that evening, we will enjoy dinner at a Michelin-rated restaurant known for its delicious cassoulet, toast our adventure together, and get a good night's sleep. Included: Lodging, picnic lunch, dinner 

Included / Picnic lunch, dinner, castle visit 
Lodging / Auberge

Pickup Time / 11 AM
Pickup Location / Foix train station

Day 2 / Château de Quéribus to Château d’Aguilar

Our first hike begins with a view of the glacial valley from Quéribus Castle, one of the Cathar castles that once formed the border with Spain. The hike traverses a varied landscape of vineyards and rolling hills, passing through Padern Village and Tuchan village and ending with an ascent up to Aguilar Castle. After the hike, we will tour Aguilar castle and watch the sun start to set – a wonderful and peaceful experience. This six-hour hike is one to take pride in; take a moment to look behind you, take a deep breath, and appreciate the training that has brought you here to this beautiful place.

Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 19 km/12 mi | ASCENT 429 m/1407 ft | DESCENT 780 m/2,559 ft | MAX ELEVATION 687 M/2,254 ft | TIME 6 hours

Included / Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Lodging / Auberge

Day 3 / Cucugnan to Gorge de Galamus 

Today, we are starting our adventure with a gentle ascent through vineyards and valleys to reach the charming mountain town of Duilhac. Here, we will witness the impressive Peyrepertuse Castle rising from the cliff face. We will then embark on a hike across the plateau beneath the castle, with stunning views of the valley, before descending through the majestic and mystical Gorge de Galamus. You will have plenty of time to explore the gorge and the hermitage built into the gorge walls. The Gorge de Galamus is a breathtaking natural site carved by water over millions of years and must be seen to be believed. With crystal clear waters running through the gorge, walking through on a road built in 1890 will leave you with an unforgettable experience. Not even the best photographs can do it justice! 

Included / Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Lodging / Auberge

Day 4 / Rest Day and Transition to Puivert 

Today, we drive to Puivert, which is now home base for the rest of our day-hiking adventure. Before heading to our lodging, we will visit the town of Mirepoix. Truly unique with a timeless appeal, Mirepoix feels like it has been frozen in time, encapsulating the medieval world while offering modern amenities and a vast array of shops, cafes, a brasserie, and artist shops. Once we arrive in Puivert, we will enjoy the charm of our host, Martyn, and his beautiful and relaxing chambre d’hôte.  

Included / Breakfast, picnic lunch, wine tasting, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 5 / A Gentle Walk in the Woods

Today is a special day as we follow the path of history. We will start our journey from Puivert and hike downhill through a beautiful forest, before ascending uphill again to witness a stunning view of Puivert Castle and the valley. Along the way, you will come across evidence of battles from World War II, and we will visit the Maqui memorial, which holds great historical significance. After that, we will hike down to L'escale and then return to Puivert, where we will have the pleasure of visiting the castle before enjoying a delicious dinner with Martyn as our host. 

Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 14 km/9 mi | ASCENT 666 m/2,185 ft | DESCENT 506 m/ 1,660 ft | MAX ELEVATION 1,022m/3,353 ft | TIME 4 hours

Included / Lodging, breakfast, lunch, dinner, castle visit
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 6 / Comus Ridge Hike

For our last hike, we will begin on the western section of the Sentier de Cathar. We will start in Comus, hike up onto the ridge, and then primarily walk along level trails with gentle undulation. From here, you will be able to enjoy spectacular views back to Montsegur and across the mountain range. This beautiful and tranquil final day's hike will end with a delicious dam blanche ice cream to celebrate the kilometers you've walked.

Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 14 km/9 mi | ASCENT 432 m/1,417 ft | DESCENT 717 m/2,352 ft | MAX ELEVATION 884 m/2,900 ft | TIME 4 hours

Included / Breakfast, wine tasting, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 7 / Transition day

After breakfast, you will be taken to Foix, where you can visit the castle, shop, or enjoy lunch at one of the many cafés or restaurants. There are lovely lodging options near the train station, should you wish to stay for the night and travel to Toulouse the following day. 

Included / Breakfast

Drop off time / 12pm local time

Drop off location / Foix train station

This itinerary is given for your information and may be changed at the discretion of the leaders depending on the weather conditions, physical ability of clients and the trail 'options' we decide together.