15 minutes from the 61 autoroute, at the intersection of several antique highways, the foot of the Pyrénées and the gateway to the upper valley of the Aude, Limoux is in the very heart of the Cathar Country.

A land replete with history, the Cathar Country, Limoux makes an ideal starting point for excursions, radiating to sea or mountains, the Corbières or the Lauragais. A splendid prelude to the discovery of traces of Catharism which have survived time, the town offers its riches to you, fortified by 2000 years of stirring history : manors, churches, basilicas, bridges and medieval works of art, not forgetting the Place de la République bordered on three sides by medieval arcades which invite you to wander in their protective shade. The Musée Petiet and its fine collection of XIXth and XXth century paintings welcomes you to the Petiet family’s former artists’ studio.

A land of culture, Limoux provides year-long cultural activities and events, reflecting the town’s attachment to its history and traditions. From January to March the Carnival - the origins of which are lost in the ides of time - takes possession, to the immense delight of both inhabitants and visitors. During the summer months, in the many villages of the Upper Valley the International Folklore Festival directs folklore groups from the world over and provides free entertainment. Each Tuesday, from June to August, the nocturnal market displays goods made by local craftsmen and samples of local gastronomy.

A land close to nature, Limoux, thanks to its climate and preserved environment, provides an ideal playground for those partial to outdoor activities. The River Aude encourages white water sports, ranging from thrilling raft descents to calm canoe excursions.

For those who prefer the mountain-bike or walking, the diversity of the landscape permits many excursions and itineraries ranging from family outings, mountain-bike rides to the extreme descent. Those who prefer energetic holidays may discover the Cathar Country by cyclo-tourism spending a week exploring the Aude area (from Limoux two types of circuit are available according to experience, and include hotel accommodation).

A land of gastronomy and wine, Limoux is the cradle of the world’s oldest sparkling wine, the origin of which is cited in documents dating back to 1531. Awarded the label Appellation d’origine contrôlée in 1938 for the Blanquette and in 1990 for the Crémant, these wines are a blend of three wine varieties: the Mauzac, the chardonnay and the Chenin. Other prestigious wines, promoted by the Toques and Clochers operation (sale by auction of the chardonnays, the profits of which are used to restore the church in one of the wine-growing villages involved), the chardonnays are becoming increasingly popular for their fine bouquets. Rich in the incomparable know-how of its cooks and well-known chefs, the gastronomy illustrated by prestigious local dishes, blossoms, and provides an incredible variety of savours. Recommended tastings include: pepper flavoured biscuits for the apéritif, salted poultry liver salad, fricassée, Limoux country duckling, Limoux gateau, nougats and chocolates.

Limoux, having much to offer, is worth a detour...

Quote this article on your site