Pickup Time / 11 AM
Pickup Location/ Foix train station
Description: Following pickup, we will enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch before visiting Quéribus Castle and step back in time as we explore one of the castles that never fell during the Albigensian Crusade. Rising straight out of the cliff face, much of the structure originally built in the 11th century still stands, showing us 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 settle into our first home base in Caudiès. Our Chambre d’hôte is run by a charming couple who create an inviting and homely atmosphere and serve only the most local food and wine. After settling in, we will prepare our packs and review the next day’s hike before enjoying dinner with the group. We will rise early the next morning and begin our first hike.
Included/ Lunch, dinner, castle visit
Lodging/ Le Grand Duc

Distance: 11km/7mi
Ascent: 103m/338ft
Descent: 441m/1,447ft
Max Elevation: 701m/2,300ft
Time: 3 hours
Description: For our first hike, we start across the valley from a Cathar stronghold - Puilaurens castle and enjoy a gentle and beautiful hike that takes us along a lovely path as we make our way back toward Caudiès and the Gorge de Saint Jaume - a natural site formed over millions of years, with a mystical, magical ambiance. Along the way, we will see the ruins of two Cathar Castles above the village of Fenouillet and experience some of the rich history of the area. Following our hike, we will visit a local knife maker to learn about his craft and see him demonstrate how he handcrafts and forges each unique piece.
Included: Lodging, breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Lodging: Le Grand Duc

Description: This morning, we experience one of the region’s largest and most beautiful open-air markets in the medieval town of Mirepoix. Mirepoix has the oldest half-wood house in France. Truly unique with a timeless appeal, Mirepoix feels like it has been frozen in time, encapsulating the medieval world while offering modern amenities and an array of shops, cafes, a brasserie, and artist shops. You can enjoy your lunch in Mirepoix, as there are various delicious options. In the afternoon, experience a unique local wine tasting featuring a tour of the vineyards and tastes of the grapes before returning to the wine cellar to taste the wines.
Included/ Lodging, breakfast, dinner
Lodging/ Le Grand Duc

Distance: 10km/6mi
Ascent: 230m/755ft
Descent: 221m/725ft
Max Elevation: 1,030m/3,380ft
Time: 4 hours
Description: Our second hike begins across the valley from Puivert Castle along a mountain ridge with stunning views of the valley and the Pyrenees mountain range. This hike has some gentle undulation as we go through beautiful, forested terrain to the Maquis memorial to visit this vital center of WWII and resistance history in this area. Following our hike, we will settle into our next home base at Au Petit Verger, which a charming host runs.
Included/ Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Lodging/ Le Grand Duc

Description: Our day will begin with a visit to the Gorge de Galamus - a breathtaking natural site carved by water over millions of years that you have to see to believe. With crystal clear waters running through it, the walk through the gorge on a road that was built in 1890 will leave you with an experience you will always remember, as not even the best photographs do it justice! There will be time to visit the hermitage that is built into the wall of the gorge and to enjoy the views and the experience.

Following our picnic lunch, visit a local vineyard for a leisurely tour of the vineyards, the wine production, and a tasting of some regional wines.

Distance: 11km/7mi
Ascent: 269m/384ft
Descent: 568m/1,864ft
Max Elevation: 1,346m/4,416ft
Time: 4 hours
Description: We will traverse the open and beautiful ridge above Comus village. From here, we can see out to the western Pyrenees mountain range in one direction and east down the valley running out the Mediterranean Sea. This tranquil hike takes us through farmland with grazing cows and then gently descends through lovely forests before reaching the main road. After our hike, we will drive back to Comus to have some of the most delicious ice cream in the area – the perfect end for our last hike.
Included: Lodging, breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Lodging: Chambre d’hôte

Drop-off time/12 PM local time
Drop off location/ Foix train station
Description: After breakfast, you will be taken back 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

Stay Connected