Cathar Castles and Abbeys in Languedoc-Roussillon
Innumerable hilltop fortresses can be found in the department of Aude with a fascinating history dating back as far as the 11th century.  They are a continuing reminder of the bitter feuding between the French nobility (representing the Catholic Church) and the Cathar religion.  Although the castles are largely ruins today they still have fabulous settings and provide a pleasant option for a short trip and a bit of exercise (some of the castles have very steep climbs to reach them!).  For convenience, we've also grouped some splendid abbeys in this section.

Château de Queribus

Location:  Take the D117 20km inland from Perpignan and you will find the Chateau de Queribus off to the right along the D19.
General Info: Tel: 04 68 45 03 69.  Open in the summer from 9AM – 8PM.  Entrance fees are reasonable.
Description:  Arriving from the coast, this fortress marks the entrance to Cathar country and is dramatically perched on top of a rocky outcrop.  Probably the best preserved, it is also one of the most photographed of all the Cathar castles, famed for its polygonal keep and Gothic-style hall.  At over 700m high it provides an excellent viewpoint over the Roussillon plains and the Corbieres vineyards.
Our recommendations:  Combine a visit here with a visit to several of the other castles in the region.  There is quite a steep climb to reach the castle but the view is worth it!
For the children:  The children will enjoy a visit here (look out for the long dark passageway at feature no. 18!), but don't plan on spending a full day, they will prefer to head to the lakes in the hills for a picnic or a swim!  Or try our Cathar Castle tour.

   - Abbaye de Fontfroide
   - Abbaye de St Martin-de-Canigou
   - Château de Queribus
   - Château de Peyrepertuse
   - Château de Puilaurens
   - Montségur

Lastours. Just 12 km north of Carcassonne within the valley of the Orbiel lie the four fortresses of Lastours. In the foothills of the Montagne Noire.

- Cathar Country - website on the Pays Cathar.