The town

01WELCOME

BETWEEN TWO SEAS

A trip for gourmet food, relaxation, well-being and discovery … Le Clos Fleuri is the ideal spot to visit Aude, the Pays Cathare, Carcassonne…

Castelnaudary is located on the Bordeaux Narbonne route which links the two seas: the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean. Its location near to the motorway makes it easily accessible. Our hotel is just 5 minutes from the motorway exit, allowing you to be at the heart of activities and prestigious sites. Discover the history of Castelnaudary, the Cathar epic, stroll along the water’s edge, enjoy the taste of cassoulet… here anything is possible! Welcome to Lauragais.

02TRIP

Culture & gastronomy

Former capital of the Lauragais before the creation of the departments in 1790, Castelnaudary is located in its plain. With its 47 km² of surface, it is one of the largest cities in the Aude department.

Castelnaudary has a very rich culture and heritage. You will find many places and historical monuments such as the collegiate church of Saint-Michel, the chapel of Notre-Dame-de-la-Pitié, the Présidial,etc.

As for gastronomy, Castelnaudary proclaims itself as the “world capital of cassoulet” and is therefore one of the three cities that compete for its origin with Toulouse and Carcassonne. But there is another city’s special with the “Alleluia”, based on choux pastry and whose name comes from Pope Pius VII, supposedly known to have said “Alleluia!” after tasting it at the Hôtellerie Notre-Dame in Castelnaudary.

02Activities

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.

03On the water

Boat

The Saint-Roch boat invites you to discover the Canal du Midi by enjoying the pleasure of sailing and a commentary on the history and creation of this exceptional work.

04Heritage

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.

05A natural treasure

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!

06History

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!