HOTEL AT THE VERY HEART OF THE Lauragais COUNTRY
Those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can discover the Canal du Midi on foot or by bicycle (mountain biking or hybrid biking) along the towpath in the shade of the ancient plane trees. There are plenty of activities in the Pays Lauragais. The horse riding centres offer individual or group treks. From March to December, the Castelnaudary French Sailing School offers the following from the Ganguise water-sports centre: catamarans, dinghies, windsurfing, fun-boarding, paddle-boarding, pedalos, canoeing…
At the Matarelle Educational Farm, 10 km from Castelnaudary, young and old can spend an hour, afternoon or full day discovering life on a farm with sheep, goats, ducks, geese, pigs, donkeys, cows and even llamas and yaks.
CASTLES, LAKES & MUSEUMS
There are many sites to visit around Castelnaudary, such as Carcassonne with the largest fortified citadel in Europe, the castle of Saissac in the foothills of the Black Moutain with its treasure of 2,000 deniers from the 13th century, or the bastide of Saint-Félix-Lauragais in the heart of the Pays de Cocagne.
For relaxation or water sports we recommend the lake of Saint-Ferréol as well as the lake of Montbel, which is a little further away from Castelnaudary. Montolieu will delight the young and old alike, it is the temple of books and graphic arts and is located only 21 km from the city. Finally don’t forget the Pastel Museum to learn more about its history.
In the surrounding area
Castelnaudary and its surrounding area offers a wide range of activities whether alone, as a couple or a family. Amongst the hills, on the paths, in the town, along the Canal du Midi... set off on an adventure on land, on the sea, or even in the air.
The medieval town
A piece of paradise in the heart of France, Castelnaudary is a located in the department of Aude, part of the Occitanie area. Come and meet the Chauriens and Chauriennes (Castelnaudary's inhabitants) to discover our rich historical heritage.
The black mountain
Thirty minutes from the famous city of Carcassonne, the Black Mountain is an ideal place for outdoor activities and hiking. Either on foot, by bike, on horseback or by motorcycle, you will fall in love with the Black Mountain!
The town
The corridor of the Lauragais plains has known an intense traffic since the Neolithic period. It was used by one of the tin routes and then by the Via Romana of Aquitaine. Castelnaudary entered history in 1118 under the name of Castellum Novum Arri or new castle of Arri.
A strategic stronghold during the crusade against the Cathars, it enjoyed rapid growth between the 12th and 14th centuries before being burned during the Hundred Years War. It is besides at that time thant the worldwide famous Cassoulet was born!